Quick and Easy Ground Beef Skillet Recipe for Busy Nights

Ah, the humble Ground Beef Skillet – a one-pan wonder that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights. This simple, yet satisfying dish is a family favorite, combining ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, onions, and a medley of spices for a meal that’s sure to please. Get ready to dive into a comforting, flavor-packed skillet that’s ready in just about 30 minutes!

Table of Contents

Ingredients for the Perfect Ground Beef Skillet

The beauty of this Ground Beef Skillet recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. With just a few kitchen staples, you can create a delicious and well-balanced meal that the whole family will enjoy. Let’s take a closer look at the essential components:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef – The star of the show! Ground beef is versatile, affordable, and packs a protein-packed punch.
• 2 medium bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), diced – A colorful and crunchy vegetable addition that adds flavor, texture, and essential nutrients.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – The aromatic foundation that brings depth and sweetness to the dish.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is a must-have for enhancing the overall savory profile.
• 1 can (14.5 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes, undrained – Provides moisture and a tangy, acidic component to balance the dish.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the ingredients and ensuring even cooking.
• 1 tsp chili powder – Adds a touch of warmth and smoky depth.
• 1 tsp cumin – Earthy and fragrant, cumin complements the other spices beautifully.
• 1 tsp paprika – Brings a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings to enhance the overall flavor.
• 1 cup (about 100 g) shredded cheese – A melty, cheesy topping that takes the dish to new heights of deliciousness.

How to Make the Perfect Ground Beef Skillet

Ready to bring this Ground Beef Skillet to life? Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal on the table in no time:

Cook the Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat, if needed.

Add the Veggies

Next, stir in the onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and become fragrant.

Season and Simmer

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, and then season the skillet with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Top with Cheese

Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes, creating a delightful cheesy topping.

Serving Suggestions for Your Ground Beef Skillet

The versatility of this Ground Beef Skillet makes it a perfect main dish or a delicious accompaniment. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Rice – Serve the skillet over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a more substantial meal.
• Tortillas – Scoop the Ground Beef Skillet into warm tortillas for tasty tacos or burritos.
• Crusty Bread – Pair the skillet with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping and soaking up all the flavorful juices.

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this Ground Beef Skillet is sure to become a new family favorite. Its bold flavors and easy preparation make it a weeknight winner that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Nutritional Information

One serving of this Ground Beef Skillet (approximately 1 cup) provides:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 17g

It’s a well-balanced meal that’s high in protein and provides a good source of essential nutrients. For those watching their carb intake, you can easily adjust the serving size or consider serving the skillet over a bed of cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Beef and Bell Pepper Stir-fry – A similar skillet dish with a flavorful Asian-inspired twist.
• Chili Con Carne – A hearty, spicy dish that incorporates ground beef and beans.
• One-Pan Beef and Rice – A comforting one-pot meal that combines ground beef with grains.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers – Using similar ingredients in a creative, stuffed pepper dish.

FAQs about Ground Beef Skillet

How do you cook ground beef in a skillet?

To cook ground beef in a skillet, start by heating a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Cook the beef until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat before proceeding with the recipe.

Can you use ground beef for stroganoff?

Absolutely! Ground beef is a great option for making a classic beef stroganoff. The ground beef cooks quickly and absorbs the rich, creamy sauce wonderfully. Simply substitute ground beef for the usual cubed beef in your favorite stroganoff recipe.

What’s the secret to flavorful ground beef?

The secret to flavorful ground beef lies in a few key steps. First, be sure to season the beef generously with salt and pepper before cooking. This helps to enhance the natural beefy flavor. Additionally, adding aromatics like onions, garlic, and spices while cooking the beef will infuse it with even more delicious flavors.

Is it better to cook ground beef with butter or oil?

Both butter and oil can work well for cooking ground beef, but the choice often comes down to personal preference and the desired result. Butter will add a rich, creamy flavor, while oil is better for high-heat cooking and achieving a nice browning on the beef. For this Ground Beef Skillet recipe, we recommend using a tablespoon of olive oil, which has a higher smoke point and allows the beef to brown nicely.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Skillet is a true winner in the world of easy, family-friendly meals. With its simple ingredient list, bold flavors, and satisfying texture, it’s no wonder this dish has become a go-to for busy weeknights. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a new staple in your household. Enjoy!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

Print