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20-Minute Ground Beef Taco Skillet

20-Minute Ground Beef Taco Skillet

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A fast, flavorful Tex-Mex skillet dish using pantry staples. Juicy ground beef is seasoned and emulsified with salsa, topped with melted cheese for a creamy finish. Ready in 20 minutes with minimal effort and balanced to satisfy cravings.

Ingredients

Ground Beef (1 lb / 454 g)
Taco Seasoning (1 packet / approx. 1 oz / 28 g)
Salsa (1/2 cup / 120 ml)
Tortillas (4 large ones)
Shredded Lettuce (1 cup / 120 g)
Shredded Cheese (1/2 cup / 120 g)
Minced Garlic (1 tbsp / 15 g)
Diced Onion (1/2 cup / 60 g)
Ground Cumin (1 tsp / 2.5 g)
Lime Juice (2 tbsp / 30 ml)
Fresh Cilantro (for garnish)
Avocado (1/2 medium, sliced)
Canned Black Beans (1/2 cup / 100 g, drained and rinsed)

Instructions

Preheat skillet over medium-high heat
Add ground beef and cook until browned (3-4 minutes)
Stir in garlic, diced onion, and ground cumin; sauté for 2 minutes
Add taco seasoning and salsa to the skillet
Bring mixture to simmer to activate seasonings and blend flavors
Stir in black beans until heated through
Top with shredded cheese and let melt completely (2-3 minutes)
Serve in warmed tortillas with lettuce, cilantro, avocado, and extra lime juice

Notes

Use canned black beans for quick prep and plant-based protein.
Browning beef thoroughly maximizes Maillard reaction for depth of flavor.
Add water (1-2 tbsp) if the mixture becomes too thick.
For a lighter version, substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
Store leftover filling in airtight container for up to 3 days.