Beef Taco Skillet with Tortillas and Salsa

Beef Taco Skillet with Tortillas and Salsa Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The Beef Taco Skillet with Tortillas and Salsa is a delightful and easy-to-make recipe that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right into your kitchen. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family. With its combination of ground beef, tomato soup, salsa, and tortillas, topped with a generous amount of cheese, this skillet meal is both comforting and satisfying.

History

The concept of combining beef, tortillas, and cheese has its roots deeply embedded in Mexican cuisine, with dishes like tacos and quesadillas being staples for centuries. The Beef Taco Skillet is a modern twist on these traditional recipes, designed for convenience and ease without sacrificing flavor. It reflects the fusion of traditional Mexican cooking techniques with contemporary fast-paced lifestyles.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) ground beef
10.75 oz (305 g) can tomato soup
0.5 cup salsa
0.5 cup water
6 flour or corn tortillas, cut into pieces
0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican cheese blend
0.5 cup sour cream

How to prepare

Cook the beef in a skillet until it is well browned.
Pour off the fat.
Stir in the soup, sour cream, salsa, water, and tortillas.
Heat the mixture until it boils.
Reduce the heat and cook for 5 minutes.
Stir the mixture.
Top it with cheese.
Garnish it with chopped green onions.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicier flavor or a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture, use lean ground beef for this recipe to reduce the amount of fat. Browning the beef thoroughly before adding other ingredients is crucial for developing a deep, rich flavor. For a smoother or spicier taste, you can adjust the type of salsa used. Additionally, cutting the tortillas into uniform pieces ensures they cook evenly within the skillet.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Beef Taco Skillet with a side of guacamole, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and a crisp green salad for a complete meal. For an extra kick, offer hot sauce or jalapeños on the side.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is sautéing the beef until it's well browned, which lays the foundation for the dish's flavor. Simmering the combined ingredients allows the flavors to meld together, creating a cohesive and delicious meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If tomato soup is not available, you can use crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce as a substitute. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a healthier option, and any type of tortilla (corn or flour) can be used based on personal preference.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if necessary to prevent it from drying out.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Beef Taco Skillet in a colorful dish to highlight the vibrant ingredients. Garnish with fresh herbs, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of cheese for an appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a light, crisp beer or a tangy margarita to complement the flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, a chilled glass of limeade or sparkling water with a squeeze of lime works well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm the skillet over medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. Alternatively, microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this Beef Taco Skillet contains approximately 400-500 calories, making it a hearty meal option. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Carbohydrates

This dish provides a moderate amount of carbohydrates, primarily from the tortillas and tomato soup. Each serving contains approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates, making it a balanced option when paired with a side of vegetables or a salad.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the ground beef, cheese, and sour cream. Using lean ground beef and low-fat cheese and sour cream can help reduce the total fat content. On average, a serving contains about 20-30 grams of fat, depending on the specific ingredients used.

Proteins

Protein is an essential component of this dish, with the ground beef serving as the primary source. Each serving provides approximately 20-25 grams of protein, making it a satisfying option that supports muscle health and overall nutrition.

Vitamins and minerals

This Beef Taco Skillet is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the cheese, vitamin C from the salsa, and iron from the beef. Including a variety of vegetables as toppings or sides can further enhance the nutritional profile.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include dairy (cheese and sour cream) and gluten (tortillas). Individuals with dietary restrictions should consider suitable substitutions or omit these ingredients as necessary.

Summary

Overall, the Beef Taco Skillet with Tortillas and Salsa is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It can be easily adjusted to meet various dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

The Beef Taco Skillet with Tortillas and Salsa is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the essence of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of modern cooking. With its rich nutritional profile and the ability to customize based on dietary needs, it's a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Beef Taco Skillet with Tortillas and Salsa. It was a sunny afternoon in my twenties, and I was browsing through a quaint little bookstore in the heart of the city. As I perused the shelves of cookbooks, my eyes landed on a worn and weathered recipe card tucked away between the pages of a Mexican cuisine book.

Intrigued, I carefully pulled out the card and read the handwritten instructions for the Beef Taco Skillet. The combination of flavors and spices listed on the card made my mouth water, and I knew I had to try it out for myself.

As I paid for the book and the recipe card, the owner of the bookstore, a sweet elderly woman with a twinkle in her eye, leaned in and whispered to me, "That recipe is a family secret passed down through generations. Make sure you cherish it and pass it on to your loved ones."

I felt a sense of privilege and responsibility as I left the store that day, clutching the recipe card in my hand. Little did I know that this recipe would become a staple in my own family for years to come.

When I got home, I immediately set to work gathering the ingredients listed on the card. The savory aroma of ground beef sizzling in the skillet filled my kitchen, mingling with the fragrant spices of cumin, chili powder, and garlic. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

As I assembled the Beef Taco Skillet with crispy tortilla strips and fresh salsa, I couldn't help but think back to the kind old woman in the bookstore. I wondered about the generations of cooks who had lovingly prepared this dish before me, passing down the recipe from mother to daughter, grandmother to granddaughter.

When I finally sat down to enjoy my creation, I was blown away by the explosion of flavors in each bite. The tender beef, the crunchy tortillas, the tangy salsa - it was a symphony of tastes and textures that danced on my taste buds.

From that day on, the Beef Taco Skillet became a regular feature on my dinner table. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews from my loved ones.

Over the years, I added my own twists and tweaks to the recipe, making it my own while still honoring the tradition from which it came. I experimented with different types of meats, vegetables, and seasonings, always striving to perfect the dish that had captured my heart so many years ago.

As my children grew up and started families of their own, I made sure to pass down the recipe for Beef Taco Skillet with Tortillas and Salsa to each of them. I would sit with my daughters and granddaughters in the kitchen, teaching them the steps and sharing the stories behind the recipe.

I watched with pride as they recreated the dish, adding their own personal touches and making it a part of their own family traditions. It warmed my heart to see the recipe continue to bring joy and togetherness to the ones I loved most.

Now, as I sit here reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the serendipitous moment in that bookstore all those years ago. The Beef Taco Skillet with Tortillas and Salsa has become more than just a meal - it is a symbol of love, connection, and the power of food to bring people together.

I may have stumbled upon this recipe by chance, but I know now that it was meant to find its way into my hands. And I will continue to cherish it, share it, and pass it down through the generations, ensuring that its legacy lives on for years to come.