Ground Beef Dinner Skillet Recipe: Easy, Flavorful, and Family-Approved!

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal, look no further than this Ground Beef Dinner Skillet recipe! Packed with flavor, easy to make in just one pan, and perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is a lifesaver when you need dinner on the table fast.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Skillet Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder – Minimal cleanup required.

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.

• Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.

• Customizable – Add your favorite veggies or swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.

• Great for Meal Prep – Makes delicious leftovers!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for flavor or lean for a healthier option)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

• 1 cup frozen corn

• 1 cup cooked rice (or substitute with pasta or potatoes)

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp cumin

• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, sour cream, or avocado

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Add Aromatics & Vegetables

Add the diced onion, garlic, and chopped bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the bell pepper is tender.

Step 3: Season & Simmer

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), frozen corn, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Add Rice & Cheese

Mix in the cooked rice and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Garnish with your favorite toppings like cilantro, green onions, or sour cream. Serve hot and enjoy a comforting and flavorful dinner!

Tips for the Best Ground Beef Skillet

• Use Quality Ground Beef – Opt for 80/20 for a balance of flavor and texture, but you can also use lean ground beef if you prefer a lower-fat option.

• Make It Spicier – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

• Switch Up the Veggies – You can swap the bell pepper for zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a different twist.

• Low-Carib Option – Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-crab meal.

• Cheese Variations – Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese for different flavors.

• Leftovers? No Problem! – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and works well with the same seasonings in this recipe.

2. What can I serve with this skillet dish?

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or a simple coleslaw.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep everything ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when ready to eat. The flavors meld even better the next day!

4. Can I freeze this ground beef skillet?

Yes, this recipe freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Of course! Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.

6. What if I don’t have canned diced tomatoes?

You can substitute with fresh chopped tomatoes or use tomato sauce for a slightly different texture.

7. How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa, and add extra veggies for a nutrient boost.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Dinner Skillet recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious, quick, and fuss-free meal. It’s easy to customize, great for meal prep, and perfect for feeding a hungry family. Whether you’re cooking on a busy weeknight or meal-prepping for the week, this dish will become a household favorite.

Give it a try tonight and enjoy a comforting, hearty, and flavorful skillet meal with minimal cleanup!