Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner

Name: Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 cup beef broth; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup rice (uncooked); 1 cup frozen peas

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making this Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner on busy weeknights. It's a one-pan meal that’s not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a flavorful dish that the whole family enjoys. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one skillet! This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, transforming those hectic evenings into moments of joy around the dinner table.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:39:36.550Z

When I first tried making this Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner, I needed something quick yet delicious. I experimented with various vegetables, and it turns out that bell peppers and onions add a sweet richness that really elevates the dish. The combination of spices and a little tomato sauce brings everything together beautifully.

One of the best tips I can share is to let the beef brown properly before adding other ingredients. This enhances the flavor significantly! Trust me, taking those extra few minutes to sear the meat will make a world of difference in your dish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
One-pan meal for easy cooking and cleanup
Versatile ingredients that can be tailored to your taste
Rich flavors without spending hours in the kitchen

Ingredient Insights

The beauty of this Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner lies in its simplicity and the adaptability of its ingredients. The ground beef serves as a hearty base, providing robust flavor and protein. Don’t hesitate to swap it out for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly; be sure to check for a golden color as indicators of doneness.

Onions and bell peppers add a depth of flavor and nutritional value to the dish. I recommend a mix of colors for a more vibrant presentation and enhanced sweetness when caramelized. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes along with the spices; they’ll elevate this dish's flavor profile.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the ground beef is crucial as it develops deep, savory flavors that infuse the entire dish. Aim for a medium heat to achieve this; if the heat is too high, the beef may burn before it cooks all the way through. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and to break up any clumps. Look for a nice brown color, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

When you add the rice along with the beef broth, ensure it's fully submerged and evenly mixed. This helps the rice cook uniformly and absorb all the flavors from the broth and spices. For a chef’s tip, let it simmer undisturbed; this creates a perfect steam pocket that cooks the rice without making it mushy.

Ingredients

For the Skillet Dinner

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup rice (uncooked)
1 cup frozen peas

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables and Spices

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Incorporate Broth and Rice

Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir in the rice and bring to a simmer. Cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes.

Finish with Peas

Remove the lid and stir in the frozen peas. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Make sure the rice is tender and the dish is heated through.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top just before serving. You can also customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or spices.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner can be enjoyed on its own, but I love to serve it topped with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese can also add a creamy element that pairs wonderfully with the spiced beef and rice.

For a well-rounded meal, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. This not only enhances the meal's nutritional profile but also adds a crisp texture that balances the dish’s hearty nature. Plus, you can prepare these sides while the skillet dinner cooks to streamline your dinner prep.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which I often do!), this dish stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers, where it can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating is quick and easy—simply microwave individual portions or heat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the rice.

For longer storage, this skillet meal freezes very well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, ensuring it retains its delicious flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute! Just adjust the cooking time if needed.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free rice and ensure the broth is gluten-free.

→ What can I serve it with?

This dish pairs well with a simple salad or crusty bread.