This Beef Burrito Skillet is a weeknight hero packed with bold flavors and hearty ingredients. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings the essence of beef burritos straight to your table.
Loaded with ground beef, beans, cheese, and rice, this comforting skillet dish comes together in just 25 minutes. It’s the perfect solution for busy evenings or casual get-togethers.
What You’ll Need for This Beef Burrito Skillet
- Ground beef – Provides rich, savory flavor and heartiness that forms the dish’s meaty base.
- Yellow onion – Adds subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to balance the spices.
- Taco seasoning – Delivers that bold, zesty Mexican flair with minimal effort.
- Rotel tomatoes with green chilies – Infuses heat and tang, bringing vibrant acidity and a hint of spice.
- Pinto beans – Introduces a creamy texture and plant-based protein, rounding out the dish.
- Cooked brown rice – Offers a nutty flavor and hearty base to absorb the skillet’s robust sauce.
- Shredded cheddar jack cheese – Melts into gooey perfection, tying all the flavors together.
Quick & Tasty: How to Make This Beef Burrito Skillet
Start by browning the ground beef and onion until the meat is cooked through and the onion turns translucent. Drain the excess fat.
Next, stir in taco seasoning, water, Rotel, beans, and brown rice. Let everything simmer until the liquid reduces and flavors meld beautifully.
Sprinkle cheese over the skillet and stir until melted and creamy. Garnish with cilantro, and serve it hot with a dollop of sour cream and extra cheese if you like.
Tips & Variations to Spice Things Up
For a touch of smokiness, consider swapping pinto beans with black beans or adding a pinch of smoked paprika. Love heat? A diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce will bring extra fire.
Using pre-cooked brown rice saves time, but freshly cooked rice works just as well. A squeeze of lime over the finished dish enhances the flavor brightness. And for added crunch, serve with tortilla chips or fold leftovers into a tortilla for a handheld version.
This skillet is also perfect for meal prep—just reheat and enjoy throughout the week.
Keeping It Fresh: Storing & Reheating Tips
Let the beef burrito skillet cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back moisture. Top with fresh cheese and cilantro for that just-cooked feel.
Easy Beef Burrito Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese plus more for serving
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 15- oz. can pinto beans rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 10- oz. can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies undrained
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 1/4 cups water
- Sour cream optional, for serving
- Cilantro leaves optional, for garnish
- 1 1- oz. packet taco seasoning
Instructions
- In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, sauté the ground beef and onion, using a spoon to crumble the meat, until the beef is fully browned and the onions have softened and turned translucent. Drain any excess fat.
- Introduce the taco seasoning, water, undrained tomatoes with green chilies, pinto beans, and cooked brown rice to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and let the contents simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has reduced, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
- Fold in the shredded cheese and stir until it has completely melted into the mixture. Remove from heat.
- Top with cilantro leaves if desired, and serve with extra cheese and a dollop of sour cream on the side.
