Ground Beef and Corn Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado slices
Step-by-Step
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned.
3. Drain off any excess grease.
4. Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
6. Add corn, black beans, diced tomatoes and green chilies, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to the skillet.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded.
9. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
10. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or avocado slices, if desired.
One-Pan Wonder: Why This Skillet Recipe Reigns Supreme
This Ground Beef and Corn Skillet is a weeknight champion. It’s a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that comes together in just one pan. This means fewer dishes and more time to relax after a long day. Its versatility also makes it a family favorite.
A Symphony of Flavors and Textures
The combination of savory ground beef, sweet corn, and hearty black beans creates a delightful flavor profile. The addition of diced tomatoes and green chilies adds a touch of spice and acidity, while the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika provide warmth and depth.
The different textures also contribute to the overall enjoyment of the dish. The tender ground beef, the crisp corn, and the slightly firm black beans create a satisfying contrast in every bite.
Adaptable to Your Taste and Dietary Needs
One of the best things about this skillet recipe is its adaptability. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables, spices, or toppings.
For example, you can add diced zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for extra nutrients. You can also adjust the amount of chili powder to control the level of spice. To make it vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles.
Beyond the Basics: Elevating Your Ground Beef and Corn Skillet
While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, there are several ways to take it to the next level. Simple tweaks can enhance the flavor and presentation of your Ground Beef and Corn Skillet.
Adding a Touch of Creaminess
For a richer and creamier dish, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving. You can also add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a smoother texture. Alternatively, consider melting in some cream cheese for a tangy and decadent twist.
Incorporating Different Cheeses
Shredded cheddar cheese is a classic topping for this skillet, but don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheeses. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese can add a unique flavor dimension. You can also mix the cheese into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for a melty, cheesy goodness.
Serving Suggestions: Making it a Complete Meal
This Ground Beef and Corn Skillet is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Consider serving it with a side of rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up all the flavorful juices. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for a fun and interactive meal.
Perfecting the Ground Beef: Key Cooking Techniques
The quality of the ground beef and how you cook it can significantly impact the final result. Choosing the right type of ground beef and using proper cooking techniques are crucial for a delicious and satisfying skillet.
Choosing the Right Ground Beef
Ground beef is typically labeled with its lean-to-fat ratio. For example, 80/20 ground beef contains 80% lean meat and 20% fat. While leaner ground beef is healthier, a little fat is necessary for flavor and moisture. 85/15 or 90/10 ground beef are good choices.
Achieving Perfectly Browned Ground Beef
To achieve perfectly browned ground beef, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the meat. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature and cause the meat to steam instead of brown. Break the ground beef apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks, and stir occasionally to ensure even browning.
Dealing with Excess Grease
Ground beef can release a lot of grease as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease before adding the other ingredients to prevent the skillet from becoming too greasy. You can use a spoon to scoop out the grease or carefully pour it off into a heatproof container.
Variations and Twists: Exploring Different Flavor Profiles
The beauty of this Ground Beef and Corn Skillet is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences by incorporating different ingredients and flavor profiles.
Spicy Southwest Skillet
For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet. You can also use a spicier variety of diced tomatoes and green chilies. Consider adding some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Tex-Mex Skillet
Add a packet of taco seasoning to the skillet for a classic Tex-Mex flavor. You can also serve the skillet with your favorite taco toppings, such as shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and salsa.
Mediterranean Inspired Skillet
Use ground lamb instead of ground beef for a Mediterranean twist. Add some chopped oregano, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet, along with a squeeze of lemon juice. Consider adding some crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Storage and Reheating: Making the Most of Leftovers
This Ground Beef and Corn Skillet is a great make-ahead meal. It also reheats well, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers.
Proper Storage Techniques
Allow the skillet to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating Instructions
You can reheat the skillet in the microwave or on the stovetop. To reheat in the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. To reheat on the stovetop, heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of beef broth or water if the skillet is too dry.
FAQ: Common Questions About Ground Beef and Corn Skillet
This section addresses common queries, providing quick answers and tips for success.
Can I use frozen corn?
Yes, frozen corn works perfectly well. Just add it to the skillet directly from frozen. You may need to cook it for a few extra minutes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this skillet is great for meal prepping. Make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground lamb can all be used as substitutes for ground beef.
How can I make this vegetarian?
Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils.
What are some good toppings for this skillet?
Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado slices, and salsa are all great topping options.
