When you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, the Easy Beef Burrito Skillet is your answer. It combines the rich, savory flavors of ground beef, spices, and vegetables, all cooked together in one pan for an effortlessly satisfying dish. This skillet meal is packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. The best part? It’s quick to prepare, taking only about 40 minutes from start to finish.
PrintEasy Beef Burrito Skillet: A Flavorful, Quick, and Healthy Meal
Dinner just got easier with this Easy Beef Burrito Skillet! 🌯🍖 A hearty mix of beef, beans, and fresh veggies, all cooked together in one skillet, this meal is bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients. 🌱✨ Perfect for busy nights when you want something quick, healthy, and delicious! Top it with your favorite toppings and enjoy! 😋
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- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1. Ground Beef (1 lb.)
Ground beef is the base of this dish, providing a hearty, savory protein that’s both satisfying and filling. Opt for lean ground beef to reduce fat content, or choose ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative. The ground beef browns beautifully in the skillet, infusing the dish with a rich, meaty flavor that serves as the perfect foundation for the spices and vegetables.
2. Onion (½, chopped)
Onions bring a natural sweetness to the dish, balancing out the richness of the beef. As they cook, onions release their sugars, caramelizing slightly and adding depth to the flavor profile. A finely chopped onion ensures even distribution throughout the skillet.
3. Red Bell Pepper (½, chopped)
Red bell peppers add a hint of sweetness and a pop of color to the dish. They are tender when cooked and provide a satisfying texture that contrasts beautifully with the ground beef and cauliflower rice. You can swap the red bell pepper for yellow or orange bell peppers if you prefer a different color or flavor.
4. Green Bell Pepper (½, chopped)
Green bell peppers have a more savory flavor compared to red ones, offering a mild bitterness that complements the sweetness of the red bell pepper. Together, these peppers create a balanced, flavorful vegetable combination that enhances the dish without overpowering the beef.
5. Minced Garlic (2 tsp.)
Garlic is a must-have ingredient in any savory dish, and this recipe is no exception. The minced garlic adds an aromatic, slightly pungent flavor that pairs wonderfully with the beef and spices. If you love garlic, feel free to add a little extra—it’s always a welcome addition!
6. Chili Powder (2 tsp.)
Chili powder is the cornerstone of this dish’s bold, smoky flavor. It gives the skillet a mild heat and deep warmth that makes each bite tantalizing. You can adjust the amount of chili powder based on your heat tolerance or experiment with different varieties (e.g., ancho chili powder for a richer flavor).
7. Cumin (2 tsp.)
Cumin adds an earthy, slightly nutty flavor that’s commonly found in Mexican cuisine. It pairs beautifully with chili powder, creating a warm, spicy base that enhances the overall dish. Cumin is essential for achieving that authentic burrito flavor, so don’t skip it!
8. Paprika (1 tsp.)
Paprika brings a smoky, mild heat to the dish. It adds complexity and depth without being too spicy. Whether you use sweet or smoked paprika, it will help to create a more robust flavor profile and a beautiful reddish hue.
9. Cayenne Pepper (to taste)
For those who like a bit of extra heat, cayenne pepper is the perfect ingredient. A pinch or two will amp up the spice level of the dish, but be sure to start with a small amount and taste as you go to avoid overwhelming the flavors.
10. Cauliflower Rice (1 ½ cups)
Cauliflower rice is the low-carb alternative to traditional rice, making this dish suitable for keto, paleo, and low-carb diets. It absorbs the flavors of the beef and spices, while offering a light, slightly crunchy texture. If you prefer regular rice, feel free to substitute it, though this will increase the carb count.
11. Rotel (½ cup, drained)
Rotel adds a bit of tangy, spicy goodness to the dish. The tomatoes in Rotel provide a juicy, flavorful base that blends well with the spices and beef. If you can’t find Rotel, you can use any diced tomatoes with green chilies, or simply chop up fresh tomatoes and add a pinch of green chili powder for a similar effect.
12. Fiesta Blend Shredded Cheese (1 cup)
Cheese brings everything together in this dish, offering a creamy, melty layer that adds richness and comfort. The fiesta blend cheese, which typically includes a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and other cheeses, melts beautifully and creates the perfect cheesy topping.
13. Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the dish and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients. Be sure to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking. A little extra salt can make the flavors pop, while a bit of freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle kick.
14. Zero Carb Street Taco Tortillas (5, cut into strips)
The tortilla strips mimic the classic burrito experience, offering that delicious, slightly crispy texture when incorporated into the skillet. Using zero-carb tortillas makes this dish keto-friendly and lower in carbs without sacrificing taste or texture.
Instructions
1. Sauté the Beef and Vegetables
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and both bell peppers. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the vegetables have softened. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to break up the ground beef as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
2. Add the Spices
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to coat the beef and vegetables. Sauté the mixture for another minute or so, letting the spices bloom and become fragrant. This step is crucial for infusing the dish with that bold, aromatic flavor we all love in a beef burrito.
3. Incorporate the Cauliflower Rice and Rotel
Next, add the cauliflower rice and drained Rotel to the skillet. Stir everything together, making sure the cauliflower rice is well mixed with the beef and vegetables. Sauté for another 2 minutes to allow the cauliflower rice to absorb the flavors and become tender.
4. Fold in the Tortilla Strips
Now, it’s time to add the tortilla strips. Gently fold them into the skillet, allowing them to soften and mix in with the beef and vegetable mixture. The tortilla strips will start to absorb some of the sauce and juices, adding a soft, comforting texture to the dish.
5. Top with Cheese
Once everything is well combined, sprinkle the shredded fiesta blend cheese over the top. Turn off the heat and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the cheese melt for a few minutes, creating a gooey, cheesy topping that will make this dish irresistible.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, your Easy Beef Burrito Skillet is ready to serve! Scoop out portions onto plates, and enjoy it as-is or with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro. The dish is full of flavor, and the textures are perfectly balanced—from the savory beef to the tender cauliflower rice and crispy tortilla strips.
Notes
- Ground Beef Alternatives: If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork. Each will offer a slightly different flavor but will work beautifully in this dish.
- Cauliflower Rice: If you’re not a fan of cauliflower rice, you can use regular rice, quinoa, or even a grain-free alternative like riced broccoli.
- Cheese: While the fiesta blend cheese works wonderfully, you can experiment with other cheese blends. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese will all work well. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
This easy recipe takes inspiration from a classic beef burrito but turns it into a skillet meal that requires minimal effort and clean-up. The dish is customizable, with cauliflower rice as a healthier alternative to traditional rice, and zero-carb street taco tortillas that help you enjoy the comforting taste of a burrito without the added carbs. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or just a health-conscious lifestyle, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds and fill you up without leaving you feeling sluggish.
In this article, we’ll break down the ingredients, offer detailed instructions, and highlight tips for variations and substitutions. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy the ultimate skillet meal!
Ingredients Breakdown
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the layers of flavor that will make your Easy Beef Burrito Skillet unforgettable.
1. Ground Beef (1 lb.)
Ground beef is the base of this dish, providing a hearty, savory protein that’s both satisfying and filling. Opt for lean ground beef to reduce fat content, or choose ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative. The ground beef browns beautifully in the skillet, infusing the dish with a rich, meaty flavor that serves as the perfect foundation for the spices and vegetables.
2. Onion (½, chopped)
Onions bring a natural sweetness to the dish, balancing out the richness of the beef. As they cook, onions release their sugars, caramelizing slightly and adding depth to the flavor profile. A finely chopped onion ensures even distribution throughout the skillet.
3. Red Bell Pepper (½, chopped)
Red bell peppers add a hint of sweetness and a pop of color to the dish. They are tender when cooked and provide a satisfying texture that contrasts beautifully with the ground beef and cauliflower rice. You can swap the red bell pepper for yellow or orange bell peppers if you prefer a different color or flavor.
4. Green Bell Pepper (½, chopped)
Green bell peppers have a more savory flavor compared to red ones, offering a mild bitterness that complements the sweetness of the red bell pepper. Together, these peppers create a balanced, flavorful vegetable combination that enhances the dish without overpowering the beef.
5. Minced Garlic (2 tsp.)
Garlic is a must-have ingredient in any savory dish, and this recipe is no exception. The minced garlic adds an aromatic, slightly pungent flavor that pairs wonderfully with the beef and spices. If you love garlic, feel free to add a little extra—it’s always a welcome addition!
6. Chili Powder (2 tsp.)
Chili powder is the cornerstone of this dish’s bold, smoky flavor. It gives the skillet a mild heat and deep warmth that makes each bite tantalizing. You can adjust the amount of chili powder based on your heat tolerance or experiment with different varieties (e.g., ancho chili powder for a richer flavor).
7. Cumin (2 tsp.)
Cumin adds an earthy, slightly nutty flavor that’s commonly found in Mexican cuisine. It pairs beautifully with chili powder, creating a warm, spicy base that enhances the overall dish. Cumin is essential for achieving that authentic burrito flavor, so don’t skip it!
8. Paprika (1 tsp.)
Paprika brings a smoky, mild heat to the dish. It adds complexity and depth without being too spicy. Whether you use sweet or smoked paprika, it will help to create a more robust flavor profile and a beautiful reddish hue.
9. Cayenne Pepper (to taste)
For those who like a bit of extra heat, cayenne pepper is the perfect ingredient. A pinch or two will amp up the spice level of the dish, but be sure to start with a small amount and taste as you go to avoid overwhelming the flavors.
10. Cauliflower Rice (1 ½ cups)
Cauliflower rice is the low-carb alternative to traditional rice, making this dish suitable for keto, paleo, and low-carb diets. It absorbs the flavors of the beef and spices, while offering a light, slightly crunchy texture. If you prefer regular rice, feel free to substitute it, though this will increase the carb count.
11. Rotel (½ cup, drained)
Rotel adds a bit of tangy, spicy goodness to the dish. The tomatoes in Rotel provide a juicy, flavorful base that blends well with the spices and beef. If you can’t find Rotel, you can use any diced tomatoes with green chilies, or simply chop up fresh tomatoes and add a pinch of green chili powder for a similar effect.
12. Fiesta Blend Shredded Cheese (1 cup)
Cheese brings everything together in this dish, offering a creamy, melty layer that adds richness and comfort. The fiesta blend cheese, which typically includes a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and other cheeses, melts beautifully and creates the perfect cheesy topping.
13. Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the dish and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients. Be sure to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking. A little extra salt can make the flavors pop, while a bit of freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle kick.
14. Zero Carb Street Taco Tortillas (5, cut into strips)
The tortilla strips mimic the classic burrito experience, offering that delicious, slightly crispy texture when incorporated into the skillet. Using zero-carb tortillas makes this dish keto-friendly and lower in carbs without sacrificing taste or texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! This Easy Beef Burrito Skillet comes together quickly, with just a few simple steps. Follow along, and you’ll be enjoying this delicious, flavorful meal in no time.
1. Sauté the Beef and Vegetables
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and both bell peppers. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the vegetables have softened. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to break up the ground beef as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
2. Add the Spices
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to coat the beef and vegetables. Sauté the mixture for another minute or so, letting the spices bloom and become fragrant. This step is crucial for infusing the dish with that bold, aromatic flavor we all love in a beef burrito.
3. Incorporate the Cauliflower Rice and Rotel
Next, add the cauliflower rice and drained Rotel to the skillet. Stir everything together, making sure the cauliflower rice is well mixed with the beef and vegetables. Sauté for another 2 minutes to allow the cauliflower rice to absorb the flavors and become tender.
4. Fold in the Tortilla Strips
Now, it’s time to add the tortilla strips. Gently fold them into the skillet, allowing them to soften and mix in with the beef and vegetable mixture. The tortilla strips will start to absorb some of the sauce and juices, adding a soft, comforting texture to the dish.
5. Top with Cheese
Once everything is well combined, sprinkle the shredded fiesta blend cheese over the top. Turn off the heat and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the cheese melt for a few minutes, creating a gooey, cheesy topping that will make this dish irresistible.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, your Easy Beef Burrito Skillet is ready to serve! Scoop out portions onto plates, and enjoy it as-is or with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro. The dish is full of flavor, and the textures are perfectly balanced—from the savory beef to the tender cauliflower rice and crispy tortilla strips.
Tips and Variations
1. Ingredient Substitutions
- Ground Beef Alternatives: If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork. Each will offer a slightly different flavor but will work beautifully in this dish.
- Cauliflower Rice: If you’re not a fan of cauliflower rice, you can use regular rice, quinoa, or even a grain-free alternative like riced broccoli.
- Cheese: While the fiesta blend cheese works wonderfully, you can experiment with other cheese blends. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese will all work well. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheese.
2. Serving Suggestions
- Toppings: This skillet is delicious on its own, but adding fresh toppings can elevate it even further. Try adding a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or some zesty lime wedges for added flavor.
- Side Dishes: Serve the skillet with a side of Mexican street corn, a simple green salad, or even some homemade salsa for a complete meal.
3. Make it Spicier:
If you like your food with a little extra heat, add some diced jalapeños to the skillet, or drizzle your dish with a bit of hot sauce. You can even swap out the regular paprika for smoked paprika and add extra cayenne for an even spicier kick.
Conclusion
The Easy Beef Burrito Skillet is a winner in every sense. It’s packed with bold flavors, has a satisfying texture, and is super easy to prepare. With a few simple ingredients and minimal time in the kitchen, you can create a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or whenever you need a delicious and comforting dish. Plus, it’s versatile enough to allow for substitutions and customizations based on your preferences, making it a dish you’ll return to again and again.
So, give this recipe a try the next time you’re craving a burrito but want a healthier, one-pan version. Your taste buds—and your kitchen—will thank you!