Every product is independently reviewed and selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying, and flavorful meal, look no further than this Cheesy Taco Skillet.
It’s a one-pan wonder that combines the savory goodness of taco-seasoned meat with a melty cheese topping, making it an irresistible choice for dinner.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to be a hit.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious, comforting meal that’s full of bold flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Taco Skillet
This Cheesy Taco Skillet is everything you love about tacos but in a convenient, easy-to-make skillet form.
It’s packed with hearty protein, flavorful seasonings, and topped with gooey melted cheese.
The best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need a quick meal that still feels like comfort food.
The versatility of this dish is another reason you’ll love it—switch up the toppings or ingredients to suit your family’s preferences.
Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means minimal cleanup!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Cheesy Taco Skillet, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ground beef or chicken: Choose whichever protein you prefer to form the base of the taco filling.
- Taco seasoning: Either store-bought or homemade for that authentic taco flavor.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses for that delicious, melty topping.
- Bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes (optional): These vegetables add freshness and a bit of crunch to the dish.
- Tortilla chips or corn tortillas (optional): For adding a little crunch and texture to the dish.
- Olive oil: For cooking the meat and vegetables.
- Sour cream, salsa, and avocado: For garnishing and adding extra flavor once the dish is finished.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Meat
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add your ground beef or chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Once the meat is fully cooked, stir in the taco seasoning and a little water (according to the seasoning packet’s instructions).
Let it simmer for a few minutes until the meat is coated and flavorful.
Sauté the Vegetables
If you’re using bell peppers and onions, add them to the skillet once the meat is cooked.
Sauté the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender and slightly caramelized, adding even more flavor to the dish.
Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the meat and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt, about 2-3 minutes.
Serve and Garnish
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the heat.
Garnish with fresh toppings like sour cream, salsa, avocado, or chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or warm tortillas for dipping.
Enjoy your delicious and cheesy taco skillet that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any night of the week!
What to Serve with Cheesy Taco Skillet
This Cheesy Taco Skillet is a hearty and filling meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to complete your meal.
Here are a few ideas for what to serve with it:
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful, fluffy rice dish with a hint of lime and cilantro makes a perfect complement to the rich, cheesy taco skillet.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add a comforting, savory side that balances the taco skillet’s bold flavors.
- Guacamole & Chips: The creamy, cool guacamole paired with crunchy tortilla chips adds a fresh, zesty contrast to the skillet.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette or a tangy lime dressing will brighten up the dish.
- Sautéed Vegetables: If you’re looking for a lighter option, serve some sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or corn alongside for an extra serving of veggies.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
This Cheesy Taco Skillet is great for meal prep and leftovers!
Here’s how to store and reheat:
Storage: Once the skillet is cool, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked taco mixture for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent the mixture from drying out. Cover with a lid to melt the cheese again or add fresh cheese on top for an extra gooey finish.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Taco Skillet is a simple yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.
With its combination of savory beef (or chicken), gooey cheese, and taco seasonings, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings and sides.
Whether you enjoy it as-is or pair it with a fresh salad or tortilla chips, this skillet meal delivers bold flavors in a fraction of the time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey or pork instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or pork are great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. You can also try plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to use gluten-free taco seasoning and serve with gluten-free tortilla chips or tortillas.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the taco meat. You can also sprinkle chili flakes on top for an extra kick.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the taco meat and vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge.
When you’re ready to serve, just heat everything up in a skillet, top with cheese, and let it melt.
What other toppings can I use?
You can add any of your favorite taco toppings, such as diced tomatoes, black olives, shredded lettuce, or even a drizzle of sour cream or salsa
Cheesy Taco Skillet
Equipment
- 1 large skillet or sauté pan (12 inches)
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Chef’s Knife
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 small bowl (for mixing taco seasoning)
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g ground beef (or chicken, turkey, or plant-based meat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 packet 1 oz/28g taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup 120 ml water
- 1 cup 150g diced bell pepper (optional)
- 1 cup 240 ml salsa
- 1 cup 120g shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup 120g shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or any cheese you prefer)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Dice the onion and bell pepper (if using). Measure out the taco seasoning, water, and salsa.
Cook the Ground Meat:
- Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the ground beef (or chicken) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 7-8 minutes.
Add the Vegetables:
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using) to the skillet. Stir well and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until softened.
Season the Meat:
- Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet, stirring to combine.Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened and fully incorporated.
Add Salsa and Cheese:
- Stir in the salsa and top the skillet with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Cover and let the cheese melt for about 3-5 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or tortilla chips.
Notes
- Customizations: Feel free to swap the cheese for other varieties like pepper jack or Mexican blend cheese for a spicier flavor.
- Meat Alternatives: Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes like Beyond Meat work well in this dish.
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to spice up the skillet.
- Toppings: Consider adding fresh cilantro, avocado, or a squeeze of lime to garnish for extra freshness.
- Make it Low-Carb: For a low-carb option, skip the tortilla chips and serve the cheesy taco skillet over a bed of lettuce or with keto-friendly tortillas.
