There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that brings bold flavors together in one skillet. Skillet Beef Tamales do just that—merging rich, savory beef, sweet peppers, and warm corn tortillas into a dish that’s equal parts hearty and satisfying. Inspired by the classic tamale but with a much easier preparation, this one-pan wonder delivers all the flavor without the fuss of rolling and steaming.
Tamales have deep roots in Latin American cuisine, dating back thousands of years to Mesoamerican cultures. Traditionally, they’re made by wrapping masa (corn dough) and a flavorful filling in corn husks before steaming to perfection. But let’s be honest—sometimes, we need all that deliciousness without the extra labor. That’s where this skillet version shines! It keeps the essence of tamales intact but simplifies the process, making it a weeknight-friendly favorite.
Trust me, you’re going to love this dish. It’s got that perfect balance of smoky, slightly sweet, and cheesy goodness, all in one easy skillet. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Skillet Beef Tamales
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion.
Is this Skillet Beef Tamales for you? Let’s see. Skillet Beef Tamales are…
- Rich and Savory: The seasoned ground beef and salsa-infused sauce bring layers of deep flavor.
- Perfectly Balanced: A touch of sweetness from the corn pairs beautifully with the zestiness of the peppers and salsa.
- Cheesy and Creamy: Melted cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream add irresistible richness.
- Quick and Easy: All the tamale flavors you love in a simple, fuss-free skillet meal.
- Versatile: Serve it with fresh toppings, wrap it in a tortilla, or enjoy it straight from the pan!
Ingredients in Skillet Beef Tamales
Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s made with just a handful of flavorful ingredients that come together effortlessly. Let’s break it down:
- Lean Ground Beef: The heart of the dish. Using 90% lean beef keeps it rich but not overly greasy.
- Sweet Red and Green Peppers: A pop of color and a slight sweetness to balance the savory elements.
- Salsa: The shortcut to bold, tangy flavor with hints of spice and smokiness.
- Frozen Corn: Adds a natural sweetness and a little crunch.
- Corn Tortillas: Cut into strips, these mimic the masa texture of traditional tamales.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melty, gooey, and totally irresistible.
- Fat-Free Sour Cream: The finishing touch for a cool, creamy contrast.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Cook the Beef and Peppers
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the chopped red and green peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the Flavor Boosters
Stir in the salsa, frozen corn, and water. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Layer the Tortilla Strips
Gently stir in the corn tortilla strips, making sure they’re evenly distributed. They will absorb the flavorful sauce, creating that signature tamale-like texture.
Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and cover the skillet. Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and top with a dollop of sour cream. Serve warm and dig in!
How to Serve Skillet Beef Tamales
This dish is a meal on its own, but if you want to elevate it, try these pairings:
- Fresh Salads: A simple avocado and tomato salad with lime dressing.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for scooping up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
- Creamy Accompaniments: A side of guacamole or a drizzle of queso fresco.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted zucchini or grilled corn complement the dish beautifully.
- As a Standalone: Just a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, and you’re set!
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Prep Ahead: Chop the peppers and measure out the ingredients in advance for an even quicker meal.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Dietary Adjustments: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water to refresh the tortillas.
- Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully—just thaw and reheat for a quick meal anytime.
Tips & Variations
- Secret to the Best Flavor: Use fire-roasted salsa for an extra depth of smoky goodness.
- Want More Cheese? Go for a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a perfect balance of sharp and creamy.
- Crunch Factor: Top with crushed tortilla chips or toasted pepitas for added texture.
- Low-Carb Twist: Swap the tortillas for zucchini ribbons or cauliflower rice.
This Skillet Beef Tamales recipe is pure comfort food, packed with flavor and ridiculously easy to make. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
Skillet Beef Tamales
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef 90% lean
- ⅓ cup chopped sweet red pepper
- ⅓ cup chopped green pepper
- 2 cups salsa
- ¾ cup frozen corn
- 2 tablespoons water
- 6 corn tortillas 6 inches, halved and cut into 1/2-inch strips
- ¾ cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- 5 tablespoons fat-free sour cream
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and coat with cooking spray. Add ground beef and chopped peppers. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking the beef into crumbles, until it is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in salsa, corn, and water. Bring to a boil.
- Add tortilla strips and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the tortillas soften and absorb the flavors.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the mixture, cover, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Serve hot, topped with a tablespoon of sour cream per serving.
