Easy Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies You’ll Love

Discover a flavorful Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies recipe that’s quick, easy, and perfect for a family dinner any night of the week. This dish brings together tender beef, a colorful mix of fresh vegetables, and bold Mexican-inspired spices all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup and maximum taste. Whether you’re a busy parent, a weeknight warrior, or simply craving a hearty, vibrant meal, this skillet is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Everything cooks together in a single skillet, streamlining prep and cleanup for busy nights.
• Nutritious and colorful: Loaded with fresh vegetables, this dish balances protein, fiber, and vitamins in every bite.
• Bold Mexican flavors: A carefully crafted spice blend gives it that authentic, zesty kick without overpowering the natural ingredients.
• Family-friendly: It’s mild enough for kids but easy to spice up for adults, making it perfect for everyone at the table.
• Versatile meal option: Great on its own or paired with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad depending on your mood and pantry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that deliver a burst of flavor and vibrant color. Each component adds a unique texture and taste that makes the dish truly satisfying.

• Ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier choice that still stays juicy and flavorful.
• Bell peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green for a beautiful, sweet crunch.
• Onions: Yellow or white onions add depth and a subtle sweetness when caramelized.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the savory flavor and aroma.
• Diced tomatoes: Adds moisture and a hint of natural sweetness to balance spices.
• Black beans: A hearty addition that boosts fiber and protein.
• Chili powder: The star spice that sets the authentic Mexican tone.
• Cumin: Provides an earthy warmth that complements the beef perfectly.
• Oregano: A touch of herbal brightness that rounds out the spice mix.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
• Olive oil: For sautéing veggies and beef without any greasiness.
• Fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a refreshing finish and pops of green color when sprinkled on top.

Variations for Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies

One of the best things about this Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies is how easy it is to tailor to your tastes or dietary needs. Swap ingredients, tweak seasonings, and get creative without losing that essential vibe.

• Switch beef for chicken: Use ground chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken for a leaner, lighter option.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace beef with extra beans, lentils, or plant-based crumbles to keep it hearty without meat.
• Add heat: Toss in jalapeños, chipotle powder, or hot sauce to turn up the spice level.
• Add corn kernels: Sweet frozen or fresh corn adds lovely bursts of sweetness and texture.
• Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Mexican blend on top in the last minutes of cooking to melt it perfectly.

How to Make Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies

Step 1: Prepare your ingredients

Dice the bell peppers and onions, mince the garlic, and drain the black beans. Having everything prepped before heating ensures a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Brown the beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Sauté the veggies

Add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Step 4: Season and combine

Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the meat and veggies in spices.

Step 5: Add tomatoes and beans

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the drained black beans. Stir to combine and let the skillet simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Serve warm

Once cooked through and flavorful, remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh cilantro if desired. Ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies

• Use fresh spices: For the best flavor, use freshly ground cumin and chili powder rather than old, stale spices.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Brown the beef in batches if necessary to avoid steaming instead of browning.
• Add vegetables gradually: Sauté onions and peppers just enough to keep some crunch and vibrant color.
• Adjust seasoning at the end: Taste before serving and tweak salt, pepper, or chili powder to your liking.
• Use a heavy skillet: Cast iron or heavy stainless steel pans help achieve even cooking and great caramelization.

How to Serve Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro, slices of avocado, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a squeeze of lime brightens this dish and adds layers of flavor with every bite.

Side Dishes

Serve with warm corn or flour tortillas, fluffy Mexican rice, or a crisp green salad to round out your meal with complementary textures and tastes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning the skillet mixture over crispy tortilla chips for a quick nacho night or layer it in a burrito bowl with guacamole, salsa, and shredded cheese for a festive family dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a convenient lunch or dinner on busy days.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through to preserve texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even diced steak all work well in this skillet, offering variety while maintaining the dish’s hearty character.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your spices and canned ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the beef and up the amount of beans, add lentils, or use meat alternatives to keep the protein content without meat.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild by default but can easily be adjusted with more chili powder, fresh jalapeños, or hot sauce to suit your heat preference.

What can I serve with Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies?

It pairs well with tortillas, rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad, and even works as a filling for tacos or enchiladas.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an easy, well-balanced dinner that packs big flavors and nourishes your family, this Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies is a fantastic choice. Simple ingredients and straightforward steps come together to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Give it a try—your weeknight meals will never be the same!

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