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1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter version)
1 medium onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes (with green chilies for extra flavor, optional)
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend of cheeses)
1/2 cup sour cream (for serving, optional)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Tortilla chips (for serving, optional)
How to Make Fiesta in a Pan
Creating this flavorful fiesta in a pan is as simple as sautéing, mixing, and layering. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Cook the Meat
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey/chicken) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pan with the meat. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add the Beans and Corn
Next, stir in the black beans and corn. These ingredients not only add texture but also contribute to the dish’s heartiness and flavor. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring everything together.
Step 4: Season the Dish
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the meat and veggies evenly in the spices. If using diced tomatoes with green chilies, add them in at this point as well. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Once the mixture is cooked and well-seasoned, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Let the cheese melt into the hot mixture, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the fiesta in a pan straight from the skillet or divide it into individual plates. For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. Serve with tortilla chips on the side for a fun, crunchy contrast.
Tips for the Best Fiesta in a Pan
Customize the Protein: Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian protein like black beans or tofu for a plant-based version.
Add More Veggies: This dish is versatile, so you can add other vegetables to suit your taste, such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also throw in some fresh jalapeños for an extra kick!
Spice It Up: If you like a little more heat, try adding some chili flakes, hot sauce, or a few jalapeño slices to the pan while cooking. For a milder version, leave out the spicy ingredients and stick with the savory seasonings.
Serve it Your Way: This dish is excellent on its own, but you can easily make it more substantial by serving it with rice, quinoa, or tacos. You can even spoon it over a bed of greens for a more salad-like experience.
Cheese Options: If cheddar isn’t your thing, feel free to use Mexican cheese blend, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack for a slightly different flavor profile.
What to Serve With Fiesta in a Pan
Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside crunchy tortilla chips for dipping and added texture.
Salsa: A side of fresh salsa or guacamole will complement the flavors of the dish and add a refreshing contrast.
Rice: Pair this with a side of fluffy white rice or Mexican rice for a more filling meal.
Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with lime vinaigrette will balance the richness of the dish and add a refreshing crunch.
Why This Recipe Works
The Fiesta in a Pan recipe brings together the savory richness of ground meat with the sweetness of corn and the earthiness of black beans. The taco seasoning adds just the right amount of spice, while the melted cheese creates a gooey, comforting layer that ties everything together. Plus, the fresh garnish of cilantro and a dollop of sour cream provide a burst of freshness that elevates each bite.
This one-pan dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser, thanks to its bold flavors and easy preparation. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe will make you the hero of the kitchen. It’s comforting, satisfying, and full of fiesta-worthy flavors!
Conclusion
Fiesta in a Pan is a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish that combines all the best flavors of Mexican-inspired cuisine in one simple, easy-to-make meal. With its hearty combination of seasoned meat, beans, corn, and melted cheese, every bite feels like a mini celebration. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be customized to fit your preferences, whether you want it mild or spicy, vegetarian or meaty.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to meals. Get ready to enjoy a fiesta of flavors in the comfort of your own kitchen with this fun and delicious one-pan wonder!
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