Ground Beef Skillet Dinner
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A quick and hearty meal made in one skillet, perfect for busy weeknights.
This Ground Beef Skillet Dinner is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. It's a family favorite that brings everyone together for a delicious meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- One-pan meal for easy cleanup
- Savory blend of beef and vegetables
- Customizable with your favorite spices
A Quick and Nutritious Meal
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a nutritious meal can be a challenge. This Ground Beef Skillet Dinner is designed to fit into your busy schedule while still providing a delicious and satisfying meal for the whole family. With its one-pan preparation, you can have dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy your evening.
The combination of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and wholesome ingredients makes this dish not only quick but also packed with essential nutrients. Ground beef is a great source of protein, while the addition of bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes adds vitamins and minerals that are vital for a balanced diet. This ensures that your family is getting the nourishment they need without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this Ground Beef Skillet Dinner is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family's preferences. Want to add some spice? Consider tossing in jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Prefer a vegetarian option? Swap the ground beef for lentils or plant-based meat alternatives for an equally hearty meal.
This recipe also lends itself well to seasonal ingredients. In the summer, fresh zucchini or summer squash can enhance the dish's vibrancy, while in the fall, adding pumpkin can introduce a delightful twist. The ability to adapt this meal means you can enjoy it year-round, making it a staple in your weekly dinner rotation.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking to streamline your weekly cooking routine, the Ground Beef Skillet Dinner is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can double the recipe and portion it out into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just reheat in the microwave for a quick meal that tastes just as good the second time around.
Not only does this recipe save time, but it also helps reduce food waste. By using ingredients that can be easily integrated into other meals, you can ensure that nothing goes to waste. Plus, having a hearty meal ready to go means you'll be less tempted to order takeout on those particularly busy nights.
Ingredients
For the Skillet Dinner
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Mix and match your favorite vegetables to make this dish your own!
Instructions
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes, corn, cooked rice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let simmer for 10 minutes.
Finish the Dish
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious skillet dinner!
Storage Tips
To maintain the freshness of your Ground Beef Skillet Dinner, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay good for up to three days, making it a great candidate for midweek meals. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. This way, you can enjoy this delicious meal even weeks later.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen portions, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. This method helps preserve the flavors and textures of the dish, ensuring that your meal remains delicious even after freezing.
Serving Suggestions
While the Ground Beef Skillet Dinner is satisfying on its own, you can enhance the meal with various side dishes. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Alternatively, serve it with warm tortillas or crusty bread to soak up the savory juices.
For a family-friendly option, consider setting up a toppings bar where everyone can customize their meals. Offer toppings like sour cream, sliced avocado, or fresh cilantro to allow each person to create their perfect plate. This interactive approach not only makes mealtime enjoyable but also encourages everyone to get involved in the dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread.
→ How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead and store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
Ground Beef Skillet Dinner
A quick and hearty meal made in one skillet, perfect for busy weeknights.
Created by: Callie Morgan
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Skillet Dinner
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, corn, cooked rice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let simmer for 10 minutes.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 25g