Quick & Easy Southwestern Taco Skillet

I have this reoccurring theme in my home where all that my husband wants to eat for dinner is Tacos, anyone else?! LOL. I love tacos myself, but being a gemini I also need to switch it up a bit. I put a new twist on our taco theme and did a super quick, super easy southwestern taco skillet. One pan, delicious, simple. Need I say more?! Let’s dive in!

Southwestern Taco Skillet Details

There aren’t a ton of things you need for this skillet, which as a result, makes it super easy! Let’s go through the basics and how you can make it even EASIER 😉

• Ground Beef: Or truly any protein of choice! You can swap for black beans if you’re vegan/vegetarian or ground turkey, chicken, etc. Do what works for YOU! I specifically used Butcher Box for instance, and this is why: the meat is all humanely raised. Second: the ground beef is 100% grass fed. Third: It’s so convenient and gets mailed directly to your door. Finally: you can tell the quality in the taste! If you want to try Butcher Box, use my link here & get free chicken for a YEAR! I do get commission through this link 🙂
• Veggies: You’ll need bell peppers, sweet potatoes, onion and option to add Jalapeno if you like a little spice ;)! I love adding cilantro too!
• Seasonings: If you’re looking to make this recipe even easier, I suggest using the Siete Taco Seasoning packet (it’s unreal.) If you already have spices on hand, we’ll use a combo of salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne and garlic powder.
• Cast Iron Skillet: I recommend using a cast iron skillet because it will add so much flavor to the southwestern taco skillet recipe. Here’s one on amazon for only $20! It will CHANGE THE GAME in the flavor of so many dishes.

If you’re into this taco inspired recipe, definitely check out my Crispy Fish Tacos or my Zucchini Enchiladas. Enjoy! 

Southwestern Taco Skillet

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Serves: 4 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 30 Minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef, chicken, or turkey
• 4 small to medium sweet potatoes, diced into cubes
• 3 bell peppers, diced into cubes
• 1 zucchini, finely diced (optional)
• 1 red onion, diced finely
• 2 cloves garlic, finely diced
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil
• 1/4 c cilantro, freshly diced
• 1 Jalapeno, sliced (optional)
• 1 taco seasoning packet OR
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

Let’s taco ’bout this skillet!

1. Add the olive oil, 1/4 c water and sweet potatoes to the skillet on medium to high heat & cover. Allow to simmer/cook for about 10-15 minutes until they begin to soften, stirring every 5 minutes to ensure they don’t burn. 
2. Add bell peppers, onion, zucchini, garlic and the additional 1/4 c water to the pan. Mix well & cover for another 10 minutes, stirring 1-2 times. 
3. Create a space in the center of the pan (feel free to add more oil if needed), then add in the ground beef (or whatever meat you’re adding), along with all of the seasonings. Cover for a 5 minutes. 
4. Mix the meat with all of the vegetables until well combined, then add in jalapenos (optional) & cilantro, stir and cover again for ~10 minutes. 
5. Continue checking on the skillet, stirring frequently until the meat is cooked through and enjoy! Serve with sour cream & your favorite taco toppings!