Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner – 1 Quick & Delicious Weeknight Meal

Introduction

Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dinner option? This Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Made with simple ingredients, minimal prep, and cooked in one pan, this dish is a go-to for families who love flavourful and comforting meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ground beef is one of the most versatile and budget-friendly ingredients, making it an excellent choice for home-cooked meals. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or just need a last-minute dinner idea, this one-pan ground beef skillet is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Let’s dive into this flavour-packed, easy-to-make, and family-friendly ground beef recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Ground Beef Recipe

✅ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.

✅ One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.

✅ Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.

✅ Customisation: Easily adaptable with different veggies, seasonings, and sides.

✅ Nutritious: Packed with protein and essential nutrients for a well-balanced meal.

Ingredients of Easy Ground Beef

For this ground beef skillet recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any colour)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 cup cooked rice (or substitute with pasta, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
• 1 cup frozen corn (or fresh)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Seasonings & Spices:

• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for a little kick)
• 1/2 tsp oregano

Garnishes (Optional):

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• A squeeze of lime juice
• A dollop of sour cream

Step-By-Step Instructions to do Easy Ground Beef

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Saute the Vegetables

Add the diced onions and chopped bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes & Seasonings

Pour in the drained diced tomatoes and beef broth. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

Step 4: Add Rice & Corn

Stir in the cooked rice and frozen corn. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. If the mixture looks dry, add a little more beef broth.

Step 5: Top with Cheese & Serve

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve hot!

Serving Suggestions of Easy Ground Beef

This ground beef skillet dinner pairs well with:

• A side of crusty bread
• A simple green salad
• Steamed or roasted vegetables
• Tortilla chips for a fun taco-style meal

Variations & Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is how customizable it is! Here are some easy swaps and variations:

🔹 Low-Carb Version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

🔹 Mexican-Style: Add black beans, jalapeños, and serve with avocado slices.

🔹 Italian-Style: Swap the seasonings for Italian herbs and use mozzarella cheese.

🔹 Spicy Kick: Add extra chili powder, cayenne, or hot sauce.

🔹 Extra Protein: Stir in black beans or chickpeas for more protein and fiber.

Tips for Making the Best Ground Beef Skillet

✔ Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality ground beef enhance the flavors.

✔ Drain Excess Fat: If using higher-fat beef, drain excess grease to avoid an oily dish.

✔ Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to modify the spices to suit your preference.

✔ Make It Ahead: This dish reheats well, making it great for meal prep.

✔ Store Leftovers Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

✔ Reheat Gently: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative to beef.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

How do I add more vegetables?

You can easily add spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots for extra nutrition.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

This Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a delicious blend of flavors, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Plus, with endless variations, you can make it your own every time.

Ready to try it? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family.

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