Looking for quick and satisfying weeknight meals? These ground beef recipes are perfect for busy evenings when you need dinner on the table fast. This one-pan skillet dinner is packed with flavor and comes together in just 10 minutes.
Ground beef recipes are a staple in many households because they are versatile and budget-friendly. This particular dish uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It is a complete meal that requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for hectic weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Skillet
This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimum effort, making it one of the best ground beef recipes for busy nights. The combination of savory beef, tender vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce creates a comforting meal that pleases the whole family. It is also easily customizable—you can swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
Key Ingredients for the Best Ground Beef Recipes
To make this skillet dinner, you will need ground beef, onion, garlic, bell pepper, canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and seasonings like cumin, chili powder, and paprika. These ingredients come together to create a hearty and satisfying dish. For a complete meal, serve it over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread.
Recipe: Quick Ground Beef Skillet
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cooked rice or quinoa for serving
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and let the mixture cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or quinoa if desired.
Tips
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- To make it a one-pot meal, stir in 1 cup of cooked rice directly into the skillet before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Final Thoughts
This quick ground beef skillet dinner is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It is proof that delicious ground beef recipes don’t require hours in the kitchen. Try it tonight and enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal effort. For more easy dinner ideas, check out our collection of weeknight meals.
For more information on safe handling of ground beef, visit the USDA’s guidelines on ground beef safety.
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