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Leftover Taco Meat & Veggie Skillet | Easy One-Pan Tex-Mex Dinner

This skillet came together from what we had in the fridge — leftover taco meat, carrots, onions, fresh tomatoes, and a handful of frozen corn. The corn keeps its Tex-Mex soul, while the carrots add a gentle sweetness and color that turn it into something new. It’s a cozy, home-cooked twist that makes leftovers feel like a fresh dinner instead of a repeat.

Category
Main Dishes
SERVING SIZE
4 people
Time
20 minutes

Instructions

Step 1. In a skillet, sauté chopped onion and carrots in a bit of oil over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, until softened.
Step 2. Add leftover taco meat and stir until warmed through.
Step 3. Mix in corn, beans, and chopped tomatoes. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite Tex-Mex spices.
Step 5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt — or broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
Step 6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or scoop over tortilla chips for a nacho-style dinner.

‍Cook’s Note

The frozen corn holds onto those familiar taco flavors, while the carrots lend sweetness and texture that make this dish feel balanced and fresh. Serve it with tortilla chips or rice for an easy one-pan meal that tastes like more than leftovers.

For softer carrots, add a splash of water and cover the skillet for 2–3 minutes to steam them before adding the meat. To make it heartier, serve over rice or wrap it in a tortilla for easy burritos the next day. Add a squeeze of lime or fresh cilantro for extra brightness.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 315 kcal | Protein: 21 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbohydrates: 22 g | Fiber: 5 g | Sugars: 5 g | Sodium: 720 mg | Cholesterol: 55 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and will vary depending on ingredients used.

RATINGS

This is a recipe by
Rodica Musgrave
View all my recipes

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