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High-Protein Ground Beef Taco Skillet - Fast, Flavorful, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lean ground beef (90–93% lean is ideal)
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup frozen corn (or canned, drained)
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (or regular diced tomatoes)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 2–3 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra depth)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, more to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar or Mexican blend
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or 5%) or light sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional toppings: diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, lime wedges, pickled jalapeños
  • Optional bases: cooked brown rice, cauliflower rice, quinoa, or shredded lettuce

Method
 

  1. Warm the pan: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
  2. Brown the beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until no longer pink, about 4–6 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Build the base: Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with their juices, and beef broth. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Simmer and reduce: Lower heat to medium. Let the mixture bubble for 6–8 minutes, stirring a few times, until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust salt and seasoning.
  6. Finish with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet for 1–2 minutes to melt.
  7. Creamy high-protein swirl: Turn off the heat. Dollop Greek yogurt over the skillet or swirl it through gently for a creamy finish.
  8. Serve your way: Spoon into bowls over rice or greens, or serve with tortillas. Top with avocado, cilantro, green onions, and a squeeze of lime.