Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

A quick and easy one-pan meal that brings the flavors of classic enchiladas to your dinner table without all the fuss.

Brittany Shaw

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2025-12-25T16:25:07.262Z

This Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet combines all the delicious flavors of enchiladas into a simple, hearty dish. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy preparation in just one skillet
  • Packed with bold flavors and hearty ingredients
  • A crowd-pleaser for the whole family

A Deliciously Simple Dinner Solution

When you're pressed for time but still want a hearty meal, this Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet is your answer. It combines all the authentic flavors of traditional enchiladas into a one-pan dish that's ready in less than 30 minutes. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends.

The beauty of this skillet meal lies in its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your preferences or use what you have on hand. Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken, add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or use different types of cheese. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a staple in any household.

Flavor Profile and Ingredients

This recipe is a flavor powerhouse, thanks to the combination of spices and fresh ingredients. The chili powder and cumin provide a warm, earthy base that complements the richness of the ground beef. Meanwhile, the black beans and corn add texture and sweetness, creating a balanced dish that satisfies all palates. Don't forget the chopped cilantro on top, which adds a fresh, vibrant finish.

Using quality enchilada sauce is key to achieving that authentic taste. Opt for a brand that uses natural ingredients for the best flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even make your own enchilada sauce at home. This not only enhances the dish but also allows you to control the spice level to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with a side of tortilla chips and guacamole or a fresh green salad. For an extra kick, consider adding some jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. This dish is not only filling but also adaptable, making it suitable for a variety of occasions.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider doubling the recipe to feed a larger crowd. This dish pairs wonderfully with a refreshing margarita or a light beer, making it an excellent choice for casual get-togethers. Your guests will appreciate the bold flavors and the ease of serving, allowing you to enjoy the party without being stuck in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Serve with warm tortillas or over rice for a complete meal!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add Garlic and Spices

Add minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce. Stir to combine and let simmer for 5 minutes.

Top with Cheese

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

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Just add a splash of water to the skillet when reheating to keep it moist and delicious.

For longer storage, consider freezing the skillet meal. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.

Nutritional Benefits

This Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Ground beef is a great source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, which are essential for energy metabolism. The addition of black beans provides fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.

Corn adds natural sweetness and is rich in antioxidants, while the cilantro not only enhances the flavor but also offers health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. This dish is a well-rounded option for anyone looking to enjoy a fulfilling meal without compromising on nutrition.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute if you prefer a leaner option.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a mix of your favorite vegetables or plant-based meat.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the skillet meal before adding cheese. Once prepared, it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet

A quick and easy one-pan meal that brings the flavors of classic enchiladas to your dinner table without all the fuss.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Brittany Shaw

Recipe Type: Global Flavors

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Skillet

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 1 onion, chopped
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  5. 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
  6. 1 cup corn kernels
  7. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  8. 1 tsp chili powder
  9. 1 tsp cumin
  10. Salt and pepper to taste
  11. Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion until browned. Drain excess fat.

Step 02

Add minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 03

Add black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce. Stir to combine and let simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 04

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

Step 05

Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Dietary Fiber: 8g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 30g