Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner is the perfect one-pan meal for a quick and comforting evening. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it's a great choice for busy weeknights.
This cozy dinner is a staple in many households. The combination of ground beef, vegetables, and spices creates a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- One-pan meal for easy cleanup
- Rich and hearty flavors that warm you up
- Quick preparation perfect for busy nights
A Perfect Weeknight Meal
In our fast-paced lives, finding time to prepare a delicious meal can often feel like a challenge. This Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner is designed for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The one-pan nature of this dish not only saves time on cooking but also makes for an effortless cleanup, allowing you to enjoy more time with family or relax after a long day.
The combination of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and rich broth creates a comforting meal that warms the heart and soul. Whether you’re returning home from work or managing a packed schedule, this skillet dinner promises to deliver flavor and nourishment in under 30 minutes. It's the kind of dish that makes you feel good about what you're eating while keeping your evenings stress-free.
Versatile Ingredients
One of the best features of this recipe is its versatility. The core ingredients can easily be adjusted based on what you have on hand. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or switch up the vegetables to include whatever fresh produce you have in your fridge. This adaptability not only caters to different dietary preferences but also helps reduce food waste, making it a sustainable choice for your kitchen.
Additionally, the inclusion of diced tomatoes and beef broth adds depth to the dish, while Italian seasoning enhances the flavor profile, making every bite delightful. You can also add your favorite spices or herbs to personalize the dish further. The ability to tailor this meal to your tastes is just another reason why it's a family favorite.
Serving Suggestions
While this Ground Beef Skillet can stand alone as a hearty meal, serving it over cooked rice or pasta elevates the dish even further. The starches not only provide a filling base but also soak up the delicious flavors of the beef and broth, ensuring that every bite is packed with taste. For a complete dinner, consider adding a side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal.
For those looking to add a splash of color and nutrients, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or grated cheese before serving. These simple additions can enhance both the presentation and flavor, making your cozy dinner feel even more special. Enjoy this meal as a comforting end to your day, and watch it become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice or pasta (optional)
Make sure to have all ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner.
Cook the beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Sauté vegetables
Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Add remaining ingredients
Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, frozen mixed vegetables, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Simmer and serve
Let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve over cooked rice or pasta if desired.
Enjoy your cozy dinner with family or friends!
Pro Tips
- For a little extra flavor, try adding some grated cheese on top just before serving.
Tips for Success
To ensure the best flavor in your Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner, make sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly. This step not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the overall texture of the dish. Don’t rush this process; take your time to achieve a nice sear on the meat, which will add depth to the finished meal.
When sautéing the vegetables, feel free to experiment with different kinds. Adding zucchini, spinach, or even corn can introduce new flavors and textures, making the dish more exciting. Just keep in mind that some vegetables may require varying cooking times, so adjust accordingly to maintain the perfect doneness.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, this Ground Beef Skillet stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld together, often making the dish even more delicious upon reheating. To reheat, simply add a splash of beef broth or water to the skillet to prevent it from drying out, and warm it over medium heat until heated through.
For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. This is a fantastic way to have a home-cooked meal ready at a moment's notice. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above for a quick and hearty meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.
→ Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to enhance the dish.
Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner
This Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner is the perfect one-pan meal for a quick and comforting evening. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it's a great choice for busy weeknights.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice or pasta (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, frozen mixed vegetables, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve over cooked rice or pasta if desired.
Extra Tips
- For a little extra flavor, try adding some grated cheese on top just before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g