High Protein Beef Taco Skillet

March 2, 2025

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Published: Mar 1, 2025 by Cathy Chenard · This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This high-protein beef taco skillet is an easy, one-pan meal that comes together in just 20 minutes for a quick and satisfying dinner.

This high-protein beef taco skillet is a tasty Tex-Mex dish with bold, spicy Mexican flavors and a satisfying crunch. The chipotle adds a smoky kick, while the cheese melts deliciously over the beef. The Quest chips and shredded iceberg lettuce give it that yummy crunch. It’s everything you love about tacos, but in one easy skillet.

Packed with protein from lean ground beef, cottage cheese, and high-protein chips, this meal is both filling and satisfying. Plus, it’s low in carbs and keto-friendly.

It’s a quick and easy all-in-one meal that comes together in just 20 minutes with only one pan. No fuss, just a delicious, protein-packed dinner!

Ingredients

90% lean ground beef: We recommend using 90% lean ground beef to keep the protein high while reducing excess fat. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.

Chunky salsa: Be sure to get a sugar-free salsa with clean ingredients. We use Tostitos Medium Salsa, which uses simple ingredients and doesn’t include sugar. See our full review of low-carb salsas here.

Low-fat cottage cheese: We use a low-fat cottage cheese (2% milkfat) to keep the protein percentage high in this salsa. That said, you could also use a full-fat cottage cheese since it only slightly reduces the protein percentage.

Shredded cheese (Mexican blend): We like to use a Mexican blend of shredded cheese. However, you could also swap with another type of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

Quest Protein Tortilla Chips (nacho cheese): These chips add crunch and extra protein, making them a a low-carb alternative to regular chips. If you don’t have them, you could use any low-carb tortilla chips or even crushed pork rinds.

Bell pepper: The bell pepper adds a mild sweetness and a bit of texture to the dish.

Sugar-free taco seasoning: When buying a taco seasoning, be sure to buy one that has no added sugar.

Chipotle chili in adobo: The chipotle adds a smoky, spicy kick to the dish. A must if you ask us!

Shredded iceberg lettuce: The lettuce adds a fresh, crisp texture to balance the warm, cheesy beef. You could swap with romaine or skip it if you prefer.

How to Make

STEP 1: In a small food processor, blend the cottage cheese and chipotle chili in adobo until smooth. Set aside.

STEP 2: In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced bell pepper together, breaking up the beef as it browns. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess grease.

STEP 3: Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa. Let cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the blended cottage cheese mixture and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until everything is heated through.

STEP 4: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the skillet, cover, and let it melt for about a minute or so. Crush the Quest Protein Tortilla Chips and sprinkle them on top. Garnish with shredded iceberg lettuce just before serving.

High Protein Mexican Dishes

If you try this recipe, we would love to hear your feedback! Leave a comment, rate it, and tag @lowcarbsimplified on your photo of this recipe on Instagram or Facebook. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do!

Recipe