Name: 20-Minute Smothered Beef Burrito Skillet
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning); 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies; 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for extra bulk); 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1/2 cup sour cream (for topping); Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Salt and pepper, to taste

This quick and easy 20-Minute Smothered Beef Burrito Skillet is the perfect one-pan dinner for busy nights. Packed with the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef, enchilada sauce, and melted cheese, it offers all the deliciousness of a smothered burrito without the need for tortillas. It’s satisfying, flavorful, and ready in just 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how fast and convenient this smothered beef burrito skillet is to make. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s a meal that fits seamlessly into even the busiest of evenings. The taco seasoning and enchilada sauce bring all those familiar, comforting burrito flavors, while the melted cheese adds that irresistible creamy touch. Plus, the optional rice is a great way to add some bulk to the dish, making it even more filling. It’s one of those meals where you can’t go wrong, and I always enjoy how customizable it is based on what I have in the kitchen.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)

1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce

1/2 cup sour cream (for topping)

1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies

1 cup cooked rice (optional, for extra bulk)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet, I heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. I add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned (about 5-7 minutes). If needed, I drain the excess fat.

Add Onion & Garlic:
Next, I add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until it’s softened. I then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Seasonings:
I stir in the taco seasoning, enchilada sauce, and diced green chilies. Then I let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. I always taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

Add Rice (Optional):
If I’m adding rice, I stir in the cooked rice now and mix everything well to combine. I let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to warm the rice through.

Smother with Cheese:
I sprinkle the shredded cheese over the beef mixture and cover the skillet with a lid. I let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:
I top the skillet with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for added flavor and freshness.

Enjoy:
I serve it as is or with tortilla chips on the side for a fun crunch!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Black Beans or Refried Beans: Add black beans or refried beans for extra protein and fiber.

Sliced Jalapeños: Spice things up by adding sliced jalapeños for a little extra heat.

Sautéed Bell Peppers: For added veggies and a burst of color, sauté some bell peppers and stir them in.

Rice Substitutes: If I’m looking for a low-carb option, I can skip the rice and opt for cauliflower rice instead.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: I like to reheat leftovers in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. If the mixture is too thick after refrigeration, I add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

Related Recipes:

Smothered Chicken and Rice

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend adding the sour cream and cilantro just before serving to keep them fresh.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

If I prefer, I can substitute ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian option.

Can I add more spice to this recipe?

Definitely! I love adding sliced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes, I make sure to use gluten-free taco seasoning and check that my enchilada sauce is gluten-free. That way, I can enjoy the dish without any worries.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

While this recipe is designed to be quick, I can adapt it for a slow cooker by browning the beef, onion, and garlic first, then adding the rest of the ingredients and cooking on low for 3-4 hours.

Conclusion

This 20-Minute Smothered Beef Burrito Skillet is a perfect weeknight meal that’s quick, customizable, and full of flavor. Whether I’m craving something hearty or looking for a dish I can throw together in no time, this recipe has me covered. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s both delicious and easy to clean up, making it an absolute go-to in my kitchen!

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