Are you craving a delicious and satisfying meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This spicy chorizo and ground beef skillet is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. Packed with protein and vibrant spices, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a healthy meal the whole family will enjoy. It's the ultimate quick dinner idea, transforming simple ingredients into a truly memorable homemade cooking experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces chorizo sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions:
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Brown the Meats: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chorizo, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Stew: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the sauce has slightly thickened.
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Garnish and Serve: Stir in the chopped cilantro. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, tortillas, or crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness. For a milder dish, omit it entirely or use a smaller amount.
- Meat Choice: Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a leaner option.
- Bean Variety: Black beans or pinto beans can be used in place of kidney beans.
- Fresh Herbs: If you don't have fresh cilantro, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried cilantro.
Delicious Variations:
- Mexican Fiesta: Add a can of corn and some diced jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Creamy Kick: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamy finish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This chorizo and ground beef skillet recipe is a true testament to how easy it is to create delicious and healthy meals at home. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of best recipes and a perfect example of how quick dinner ideas don't have to compromise on taste or nutrition. Enjoy!