Easy Ground Beef Skillet Meals

Name: Easy Ground Beef Skillet Meals
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); 1 tablespoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love cooking quick and delicious meals, especially when they all come together in one pan! These Easy Ground Beef Skillet Meals are my go-to for busy weeknights when I want to serve something satisfying yet simple. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, I can whip up a family-friendly dinner that everyone enjoys. Whether it’s stuffed peppers or a hearty chili, each recipe is packed with flavor and cooked to perfection. Let’s dive into these easy-to-follow steps that make dinnertime a breeze!

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:13:08.840Z

When I first set out to create these Easy Ground Beef Skillet Meals, I wanted to ensure they were not only tasty but also quick to prepare. After several iterations, I discovered that browning the beef with garlic and onion before adding the veggies creates an incredible depth of flavor that enhances every bite. It’s a simple step, but one that makes all the difference!

Another tip I learned is to incorporate different spices based on what I have at home. From Italian herbs to taco seasoning, these variations allow the meals to change with the seasons or my cravings, ensuring we never tire of our skillet dinners!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Incredibly versatile with endless combinations
One-pan convenience for easy cleanup
Packed with flavor that satisfies the whole family

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of ground beef in this skillet meal not only provides a rich, hearty flavor but also serves as a great source of protein. Select lean ground beef to keep the dish a bit healthier, as excess fat can be drained after browning. Alternatively, if you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted with similar cooking times and flavors.

Bell peppers add a delightful sweetness and crunch to the dish. You can mix and match different color peppers for an inviting presentation. If fresh bell peppers aren’t available, frozen ones can be used without any loss of flavor—just add them directly to the skillet without thawing.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking the beef at medium heat allows for even browning, which is key to developing the flavor profile of the dish. Look for a nice deep brown color on the beef; this means it's caramelized properly. If your beef is steaming instead, try increasing the heat slightly to achieve that perfect sear.

When combining the diced tomatoes and corn with the other vegetables, ensure you stir gently but consistently to prevent anything from sticking to the skillet. Letting the mixture simmer not only enhances the flavors but also thickens the meal. You’ll know it’s ready when the tomatoes start to break down and create a saucy consistency, usually after about 10 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these items to get started:

For the Skillet Meal

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can diced tomatoes
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 tablespoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious meal:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until they're soft and fragrant. Stir in the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

Add Vegetables and Seasoning

Once the beef is cooked, mix in the chopped bell pepper, corn, diced tomatoes, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper, then let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked through, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, and enjoy your flavorful skillet meal!

Feel free to top with cheese or fresh herbs before serving for extra flavor!

Pro Tips

To make this dish even more nutritious, consider adding additional vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a boost of vitamins and minerals.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this skillet meal over fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Alternatively, you can create a taco night by mounding the mixture in soft tortillas, topping it with cheese, sour cream, or avocado. This flexibility makes it a great choice for feeding a crowd or catering to picky eaters.

For a heartier option, pair this dish with a side of crusty bread or a simple garden salad. The freshness of the salad will balance the rich flavors of the beef, providing a satisfying contrast. If you want to spice things up, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce into the mix for an added kick!

Storage and Reheating

This ground beef skillet meal is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, be sure to warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking and to keep it moist.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in portions. It is best to use freezer-safe containers, and it will last up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for optimal texture. While reheating, stir frequently to ensure even warming throughout.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works great as a healthier alternative.

→ How can I make this meal vegetarian?

Simply swap the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.

→ Can I prep these ingredients ahead of time?

Yes! Chopping the vegetables and portioning out the beef in advance can save time on cooking day.

→ What can I serve this with?

This dish is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with rice, tortillas, or a side salad.