If you are hunting for “Easy & Delicious Ground Beef Recipes,” your search ends here with this Ultimate Ground Beef & Vegetable Skillet. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a master method for getting dinner on the table in 20 minutes using the most versatile ingredient in your fridge: ground beef. This dish combines savory browned beef, tender rice (or potatoes), and a medley of colorful vegetables, all cooked in one pan. It is customizable, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor, serving as the foundational recipe for countless easy weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Definition of Versatility
This skillet meal is a chameleon. By changing the spices, you change the entire meal. Add cumin and chili powder for a Taco Skillet; use ginger and soy sauce for an Asian stir-fry; or stick to garlic and herbs for a classic American dinner. The recipe below provides a savory, garlic-herb base that everyone loves, but it encourages you to use whatever veggies you have in the crisper drawer, reducing waste and grocery costs.
One Pan, Minimal Cleanup
Nobody wants to do dishes after a long day. This recipe requires just one large skillet. You brown the meat, sauté the veggies, and simmer everything together until perfect. It is efficient cooking at its finest, giving you more time to relax and less time scrubbing pots.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and onion in a large skillet. Drain fat.
- Add bell pepper and seasonings. Sauté for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in tomato sauce and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Fold in cooked rice until heated through. Top with cheese and let melt.
Nutrition
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Ground Beef: 85/15 or 90/10 lean ground beef offers the best balance of flavor and fat.
Starch: Cooked rice or diced potatoes are the classic fillers. (Recipe below uses rice for speed).
Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini are great quick-cooking options.
Broth & Tomato Sauce: Creates a light savory sauce that keeps the dish moist.
Cheese: A sprinkle of cheddar or mozzarella melts on top for a gooey finish.
Smart Substitutions
Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles work perfectly as substitutes for beef. For a low-carb version, swap the rice for cauliflower rice or simply double the vegetables (cabbage works great). If you want a creamy version, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Dice your onion and bell pepper. Minch the garlic. If using leftover rice, have it ready. If using potatoes, dice them small so they cook quickly.
Cooking Phase
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and onion. Cook until the beef is browned and onion is soft. Drain excess grease.
Add the garlic and bell peppers (and any other veggies). Cook for 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Stir in the tomato sauce and a splash of broth. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Fold in the cooked rice. Stir until heated through and the liquid is absorbed. Top with shredded cheese, cover the pan, and turn off the heat. Let sit for 2 minutes until the cheese melts. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
To get the best flavor, let the beef brown undisturbed for a minute or two before breaking it up. This sear adds a depth of flavor that steaming doesn’t. Also, using “day-old” cold rice is actually better than fresh hot rice, as the grains remain distinct and don’t turn to mush when stirred into the skillet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is overcrowding the pan with too many watery vegetables (like frozen spinach) without letting the liquid evaporate. This can result in a soggy skillet. Cook the moisture out of the veggies before adding the sauce/rice.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve straight from the skillet for a family-style meal. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or hot sauce adds a bright finish.
Pairing Suggestions
This is a complete meal, but a side of garlic bread never hurts. If you enjoy this easy skillet method, you must try our Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, which is a similar concept baked to perfection in the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I use raw rice?
If using raw rice, you need to add more broth (about 2 cups) and simmer covered for 20 minutes. The recipe above uses cooked rice for speed.
Q2? How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It makes excellent lunch leftovers.
Q3? Can I add beans?
Yes! Black beans or kidney beans are a great way to stretch the meat and add fiber.
Conclusion
This Ultimate Ground Beef Skillet is the answer to the daily question, “What’s for dinner?” It is easy, delicious, and infinitely adaptable. Master this recipe, and you will never be stuck for a meal idea again.
