Tex-Mex Skillet
A hearty Tex-Mex skillet packed with seasoned ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal inspired by Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add canned tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, and 1 cup of water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Top with chopped Cheddar cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you're out of kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans work well as substitutes. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. To save time, use pre-chopped onions or even frozen onions. This dish is great for meal prep, as the flavors deepen after a day in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Tex-Mex Skillet with a side of tortilla chips or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes like Jose's Dip for a fun appetizer spread. For a more filling option, consider serving it over Super Spanish Rice or alongside Low-Fat Soft Tacos for a delightful twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it appears dry. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This Tex-Mex Skillet also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tex-Mex Skillet contains roughly 646 calories, with 40g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (183% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (135% of the Daily Value), and protein (81% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 619mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply use more beans and vegetables. Adding zucchini, bell peppers, or corn can enhance the texture and flavor while keeping it satisfying.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If you don't have Cheddar cheese on hand, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack are excellent substitutes that melt well. For a dairy-free option, try shredded vegan cheese or omit it altogether for a lighter dish.
How can I customize the spices in this recipe?
Feel free to adjust the chili powder and cumin to your taste. Adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can introduce a different flavor profile. You can also include garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth in the seasoning.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).