Learn this easy and healthy one-pan vegetarian Mexican taco skillet recipe, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Loaded with plant-based protein from quinoa and black beans, it’s a flavorful and budget-friendly dish.
One Pan Vegetarian Mexican Taco Skillet
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic pressed
- 2 red bell peppers diced
Spices:
- 2.5 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup dry quinoa
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups salsa
- 1 can 540 mL black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup frozen corn or canned corn
- 3 cups spinach or 1 cup defrosted frozen spinach
Optional Toppings:
- ¼ cup cilantro chopped
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- Green onions
- Tortilla chips
- Avocado slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Skillet: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and red bell pepper, sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in garlic and spices; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Quinoa: Add dry quinoa, vegetable broth, and salsa to the skillet.
- Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer until quinoa is cooked (about 20 minutes).
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in black beans, corn, spinach, and ½ cup of shredded cheese.
- Mix until the spinach wilts.
- Broil the Cheese: Top the skillet with the remaining cheese.
- Broil in the oven for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve and Garnish: Top with green onions, avocado, and cilantro.
- Serve with tortilla chips.
Notes
- Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing chili powder.
- Substitute quinoa with rice or farro, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
- Use fresh or frozen spinach; frozen spinach should be thawed and drained.
How to Serve:
Serve the taco skillet warm with tortilla chips and guacamole. It’s also great topped with sour cream, salsa, or a drizzle of lime juice for added flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This one-pan vegetarian Mexican recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for those looking for easy vegetarian Mexican dishes.
- Easy Cleanup: One-pan recipe means fewer dishes to wash.
- High Protein: Quinoa and black beans provide plant-based protein.
- Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to fit dietary needs or preferences.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Stores well and reheats easily.
Tips and Variations for Vegetarian Mexican Taco Skillet:
Tips
- If the quinoa absorbs liquid too quickly, add ¼ cup of broth and lower the heat.
- Add spinach gradually to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
Variations
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese for a fully plant-based dish.
- Flexitarian Additions: Add cooked ground turkey or chicken for extra protein.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Naturally gluten-free with no changes needed.
Looking for More Easy Mexican-inspired recipes?
Craving more dishes bursting with bold flavors? If you enjoyed this One Pan Vegetarian Mexican Taco Skillet, don’t miss these other mouthwatering Mexican-inspired recipes:
- Mexican Pizza Recipe
Recreate the nostalgic Taco Bell favorite at home! This recipe combines crispy tortillas, savory taco meat, creamy refried beans, and melty cheese for a family-approved, flavor-packed dish. - Authentic Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe
Warm up with this comforting soup featuring tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and bold spices. Easy to prepare, it’s the perfect cozy meal for chilly nights or whenever you’re in the mood for a hearty bowl of goodness. - Jiffy Mexican Cornbread Recipe
Add a Mexican twist to your favorite cornbread! Using Jiffy mix as the base, this recipe features jalapeños, cheese, and corn kernels for a quick, satisfying side dish that pairs perfectly with soups and stews—or shines on its own.
These recipes are sure to bring the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your kitchen. Try them today and spice up your mealtime fiesta!
Did you make this recipe?
Please let me know how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below and tag @foodiecreator on Instagram and hashtag it #foodiecreator.
