Ground Beef Skillet With Vegetables

Name: Ground Beef Skillet With Vegetables
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup sliced zucchini; 1 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Meals

I love making this Ground Beef Skillet with Vegetables when I need a quick and delicious meal. It’s packed with flavor and all done in one pan, which means less cleanup! The combination of tender ground beef and vibrant vegetables makes it a family favorite. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can throw in any leftover veggies you have in the fridge. In just 30 minutes, you can serve a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:46:03.879Z

When I first tried this Ground Beef Skillet with Vegetables, I was surprised at how quickly it came together. The secret lies in the high heat that caramelizes the beef while keeping the vegetables crisp. I took some creative liberties by adding bell peppers and zucchini, which added a wonderful freshness and color to the dish.

If you’re short on time during the week, this recipe is perfect. I often prep the vegetables ahead of time, so I can toss everything in the pan as soon as I get home. It's a simple solution for busy nights!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Versatile dish that uses whatever veggies you have on hand
One-pan meal for easy cooking and cleanup
Savory taste that satisfies both adults and kids

One-Pan Cooking

One of the best aspects of this Ground Beef Skillet is the efficiency of one-pan cooking. By sautéing everything in a single skillet, you minimize the need for multiple pots and pans, making cleanup a breeze. When cooking, be sure to use a large skillet to ensure even browning of the beef and even cooking of the vegetables. The goal is to achieve a crispy brown on the beef while softening the vegetables for that perfect mix of textures.

To enhance the flavors as you cook, resist the urge to overcrowd the skillet if you're doubling the recipe. This can lead to steaming rather than browning. Keep the heat at medium-high for proper sautéing, and you’ll notice the vegetables releasing moisture, which will help deglaze the bottom of the pan. Scraping up those bits of flavor as they form is key to building a rich base for the dish.

Ingredient Insights

Using fresh vegetables in this recipe not only adds nutrition but also a burst of color that makes the dish more appealing. You can substitute or add whatever vegetables are left in your fridge—think carrots, green beans, or spinach. Just be mindful of cooking times. Harder vegetables like carrots will need to be diced smaller or added earlier to allow them enough time to soften before everything is ready to serve.

The Italian seasoning plays a crucial role in bringing all the flavors together. If you don't have Italian seasoning on hand, a mix of dried oregano, basil, and a touch of thyme can serve as an excellent substitute. Alternatively, fresh herbs can be chopped and added towards the end of cooking for a more fragrant finish. The balance of savory notes from the beef and the brightness from the vegetables creates a delightful taste that makes this dish a winner.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup sliced zucchini
1 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to taste and adjust seasonings before serving!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious skillet meal.

Cook the Beef

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

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the diced onion, garlic, bell peppers, and zucchini. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Season and Serve

Add soy sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot!

Enjoy your meal directly from the skillet for a cozy dining experience!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have available. This dish is also great with some shredded cheese on top for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this Ground Beef Skillet stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weekdays. When reheating, do it on medium heat in a skillet to avoid losing texture. If the dish appears dry, adding a splash of water or broth will help revive the dish without overcooking the beef or veggies.

For longer storage, you can freeze the skillet meal for up to three months. Portion the cooled dish into freezer bags, squeezing out excess air before sealing. When ready to eat, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight, and then reheat gently to preserve its flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef Skillet is quite versatile and can be served in various ways. It pairs excellently with cooked rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. You can even use it as a filling for wraps or tacos for a fun twist. Top it with shredded cheese and bake for a few minutes for a quick casserole idea that the kids will love.

For a low-carb option, consider serving it over a bed of lettuce or alongside roasted sweet potatoes, which complement the savory flavors nicely. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving can elevate the dish even further, adding creaminess and freshness that brightens the overall taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative!

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add carrots, broccoli, or even spinach for a different taste.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just reheat it on the stovetop when you're ready to enjoy.