Spice up your dinner routine with our mouthwatering Low Carb Mexican Skillet recipe! Bursting with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this easy-to-make dish is sure to become a family favorite. Packed with protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness, it’s a satisfying meal that won’t derail your low-carb lifestyle. Join us as we guide you through the steps of creating this delicious skillet dinner, along with helpful tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef
- 2 ½ tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 red chili, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 12 ounces frozen cauliflower rice
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Cilantro, lime wedges, and sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté the meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey or beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Season the meat: Sprinkle taco seasoning over the cooked meat and stir until well combined. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the veggies: Add diced onion, bell pepper, and red chili to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Incorporate the tomatoes and cauliflower rice: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and frozen cauliflower rice. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cauliflower rice is heated through and any excess liquid has evaporated.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded pepper jack cheese and cheddar cheese over the skillet mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges and sour cream on the side, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Extra Heat: Increase the spiciness of the dish by using hot taco seasoning or adding extra diced chili peppers.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground meat with plant-based protein alternatives such as crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Customize with Toppings: Serve the skillet with your favorite low-carb toppings such as avocado slices, salsa, or guacamole for added flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh cauliflower rice instead of frozen? A: Yes, you can use fresh cauliflower rice if preferred. Simply cook it in the skillet for a few minutes longer until it reaches your desired tenderness.
Q: Is this dish suitable for a keto diet? A: Absolutely! With its low-carb ingredients and high-protein content, this Mexican skillet is perfect for those following a keto lifestyle.
Q: How can I make this dish lower in carbs? A: To reduce the carb content further, you can omit the diced tomatoes or use them in moderation. You can also adjust the amount of onion and bell pepper according to your preferences.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the skillet mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the skillet or microwave before serving, then add the cheese and garnishes.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this dish? A: Yes, this Mexican skillet freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Elevate your dinner repertoire with the bold flavors of our Low Carb Mexican Skillet. With its tantalizing combination of seasoned meat, colorful veggies, and gooey cheese, this dish is a fiesta for your taste buds. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weeknight meal or serving it up for a festive gathering, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. So why wait? Whip up a batch today and savor the irresistible flavors of this delicious skillet dinner!
