Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet

Name: Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped cilantro for garnish; Sour cream for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Traditional World Food Favorites

This Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal that brings the taste of classic enchiladas to your dinner table without the fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Created by

Lauren Mitchell

Last updated on 2025-12-25T18:16:15.916Z

This Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet is not just a meal, it's an experience! Bursting with flavors from traditional enchiladas, this skillet dish is perfect for when you're short on time but still want something delicious and satisfying. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in just one pan
Loaded with flavor from spices and cheese
Perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings
Great for meal prep and leftovers

      

A Flavorful Twist on Classic Enchiladas

If you love the rich, spicy flavors of traditional enchiladas but find the preparation too time-consuming, this Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet is the perfect solution. This one-pan meal captures all the classic taste without the need for rolling tortillas or baking in the oven. Each bite is packed with the savory essence of seasoned beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese, making it a delightful dinner option for the whole family.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it's easy to adapt based on what you have on hand or your family's preferences.

Customization and Variations

One of the best features of the Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet is its versatility. You can easily customize the dish to suit your taste by adding or substituting ingredients. Consider swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to boost the nutritional value. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to get creative while still enjoying the familiar flavors of enchiladas.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the mix. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder dish, you can adjust the spices accordingly. Toppings are another area for creativity; try adding avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or even a drizzle of hot sauce to elevate your meal.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet is not only quick to prepare but also makes an excellent option for meal prepping. You can easily double the recipe and store leftovers in airtight containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop, and you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in minutes, ensuring you never have to resort to takeout on a busy day.

Meal prepping with this skillet dish can also encourage healthier eating habits, as you control the ingredients and portion sizes. By preparing this meal in advance, you can avoid the temptation of unhealthy fast food and make sure you're fueling your body with wholesome, nutritious food.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish
Sour cream for serving (optional)

Once you have everything ready, you can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add the Ingredients

Add the black beans, enchilada sauce, corn, cooked rice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes.

Cheese It Up

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover and let it cook for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve with sour cream if desired. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet!

This dish is best enjoyed hot and can be customized with your favorite toppings!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet turns out perfectly every time, make sure to brown the beef thoroughly. This step not only enhances the flavor but also gives the dish a nice texture. Don't rush this process; allow the beef to develop a rich color before adding the onions and garlic.

When it comes to choosing the right enchilada sauce, opt for one that matches your heat preference. There are many varieties available, from mild to spicy, so you can find the perfect balance for your palate. Taste the sauce before adding it to the skillet to gauge how it will affect the overall flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet with a side of tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. You can also pair it with a fresh green salad topped with avocado and lime dressing to balance the richness of the dish. This creates a well-rounded meal that satisfies both your taste buds and nutritional needs.

For added creaminess, consider garnishing your skillet with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. This not only enhances the flavor but also provides a cooling effect that contrasts beautifully with the spices in the dish. Don't forget to sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers of the Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Just remember to let it cool to room temperature before sealing the container to prevent moisture buildup.

To reheat, you can either microwave individual portions or warm the skillet over low heat on the stovetop. If the mixture seems a bit dry after being stored, add a splash of water or broth to bring back its moisture. This ensures that your meal remains delicious and satisfying, even on the second day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the ground beef and add more beans, vegetables, or tofu for protein.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.

→ What toppings go well with this skillet?

Sour cream, avocado, fresh cilantro, and sliced jalapeños are great options!