Easy Ground Beef Skillet Meals

Name: Easy Ground Beef Skillet Meals
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love making Easy Ground Beef Skillet Meals for busy weeknights. The blend of savory beef with fresh vegetables creates a comforting dish that everyone craves. I appreciate how quickly I can whip this meal together, especially when I’m short on time. Plus, the one-skillet method means fewer dishes to clean up afterward! It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that brings smiles to our dinner table. Whether it’s for a family meal or just a quick fix, this recipe has become a go-to for me.

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:52:08.548Z

When I first experimented with Easy Ground Beef Skillet Meals, I was surprised at how versatile it is. The combination of ground beef with a variety of vegetables means I can use whatever I have on hand, making it perfect for those pantry-cleaning days. I usually throw in bell peppers, onions, and spinach for a colorful and nutritious boost.

One tip I learned through trial and error is to ensure the beef is well-browned before adding the veggies. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish and creates a nice caramelization that adds depth. It’s all in the details!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Versatile dish that allows for any vegetable substitutions
Rich flavor from well-seasoned ground beef and fresh ingredients

      

Mastering the Skillet Technique

Utilizing a large skillet is key to achieving a well-cooked ground beef mixture. When you start by browning the beef, make sure to use a spatula to break it into small pieces. This not only speeds up cooking but also ensures even browning. Aim for a nicely caramelized texture that adds depth of flavor to the dish. If your skillet has any visible liquid after browning, be sure to drain it or let it cook off to avoid a soggy meal.

As you sauté the vegetables, keep the heat at medium to allow them to soften without burning. Stir them frequently for the best results. The goal is to achieve a translucent onion and tender bell pepper, which will release their natural sweetness and enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish. Cooking them for about five minutes will usually suffice, but keep an eye out for signs of browning, which can add an extra layer of taste.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

The addition of Italian seasoning not only provides aromatic notes but also complements the beef and vegetables effectively. For those looking to kick up the flavor, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil. Fresh herbs can be added just before serving for a vibrant touch, while dry herbs should be included during the simmering step to help release their essential oils.

This recipe is easily adjustable to accommodate your taste and pantry supplies. If you’re not a fan of spinach, try kale or even sautéed zucchini. The use of canned diced tomatoes brings a nice acidity to balance the richness of the beef, but if you have fresh tomatoes on hand, they can be substituted for a fresher flavor—just chop them and increase the cooking time until they soften.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cups fresh spinach
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Stir in the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.

Incorporate Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Divide the skillet meal among plates and enjoy hot.

Pro Tips

For added flavors, consider topping the meal with grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream before serving.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of this ground beef skillet meal is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the beef and vegetables a day in advance and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will save you time on busy nights—simply combine everything in the skillet and reheat over medium heat until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth as you reheat can help maintain moisture.

If you're looking to scale up this meal, it’s easy to double or even triple the ingredients. Just ensure that your skillet is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. If you need to cook in batches, make sure to keep the finished portions warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you finish the remaining batches.

Serving Suggestions

This ground beef skillet meal is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or pasta. For a lighter option, it’s lovely on a bed of mixed greens or in a wrap using whole-wheat tortillas. Adding a sprinkle of cheese, such as shredded mozzarella or Parmesan, just before serving can elevate the dish with creamy texture and added flavor.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until thoroughly heated. This dish also freezes well; just portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a healthy alternative and works great in this recipe.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add zucchini, corn, or mushrooms based on your preference!

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just ensure all canned goods and seasonings are labeled gluten-free.

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes, this dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated easily.