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Easy Mexican Ground Beef Recipes

Easy Mexican Ground Beef Recipes

This quick Mexican ground beef skillet packs bold flavor and comes together in about 30 minutes. Serve in tacos, bowls, or over nachos.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1.25 lb ground beef (85–90% lean)
  • 1 cup chopped yellow onion
  • 1 tbsp minced jalapeño optional for heat
  • 1.5 tsp minced garlic
  • 1.5 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 0.75 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 14 oz diced tomatoes with juices
  • 0.5 cup beef broth water works in a pinch
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 0.75 cup corn kernels frozen or canned, drained
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 0.25 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend for serving
  • 8 oz flour tortillas, warmed for serving

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the beef; cook, breaking it up, until browned, 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  • Stir in onion and jalapeño. Sauté until softened and lightly golden, 3–4 minutes.
  • Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the beef.
  • Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute, letting it darken slightly.
  • Pour in diced tomatoes and broth. Bring to a lively simmer, stirring well.
  • Mix in black beans and corn. Simmer until thick and saucy, 5–7 minutes.
  • Off heat, stir in lime juice and cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Serve hot with shredded cheese and warm tortillas.

Notes

Variation: Swap ground turkey for beef, or stir in a chopped chipotle pepper for smoky heat. Serving tip: Spoon over rice for burrito bowls, or pile onto tortilla chips for quick nachos. Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Mexican Ground Beef Recipes flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.