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 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup zucchini, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Cooked rice or pasta for serving

Highlighted under: Classic Homestyle Dishes

I love whipping up quick dinners, and this Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner is one of my go-to recipes. Packed with ground beef and vibrant vegetables, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The one-pan method allows all the flavors to meld beautifully while minimizing cleanup. My family enjoys it with rice or pasta, and I always have fun experimenting with different seasoning blends. Trust me, once you try it, you'll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-15T04:25:36.497Z

When creating this Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner, I wanted something that was not only quick to prepare but also versatile. I often use whatever vegetables I have on hand, whether it's bell peppers, zucchini, or even frozen peas. The key is to cook the meat until it's browned and then add the veggies at just the right time to keep them crisp and fresh. I never skimp on spices either, as they elevate the whole dish.

This dish is special for its adaptability. It can easily turn into a cozy casserole by adding some cheese on top and baking it briefly. Whether served over rice or pasta, I appreciate how it can accommodate my family's preferences. Overall, it’s a weeknight savior that I hope you’ll love as much as we do.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes
Packed with flavor and customizable with your favorite veggies
A one-pan dish means less cleanup after dinner

Choosing the Right Beef

When selecting ground beef for this Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner, aim for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio. This balance ensures your dish remains juicy without being overly greasy. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can also work well, but keep in mind that these meats may require less cooking time to avoid drying out. Always check for a rich, red color with minimal exposure to air when purchasing, as this indicates freshness.

Texture is crucial in this dish, as it affects how well the flavors meld together. Make sure to break the beef into small, uniform pieces while browning, as this will help it cook evenly and avoid clumping. If you find that the meat sticks to the pan, adding a touch more olive oil can help release it while enhancing the overall flavor.

Vegetable Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While the classic combination includes bell peppers and zucchini, you can easily customize it with seasonal vegetables. Consider adding diced carrots, broccoli florets, or even fresh spinach for added nutrients and varied textures. Remember to adjust cooking times accordingly; harder veggies like carrots may require a few extra minutes of sautéing to ensure they are tender and cooked through.

If you're looking to boost the nutritional profile, consider incorporating legumes such as black beans or chickpeas. These can be added along with the diced tomatoes, which will enhance the fiber content and make the meal even more satisfying. Just be cautious about the added liquid; if the mixture appears too wet, allow it to simmer a little longer to achieve your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup zucchini, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Cooked rice or pasta for serving

Make sure all your ingredients are neatly chopped and ready to go.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner:

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the onion and garlic, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. Then, add the bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Combine Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine, then let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve the skillet dinner over cooked rice or pasta and enjoy your delicious, satisfying meal!

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding any vegetables you love or have on hand. Consider topping the dish with shredded cheese for a melty addition.

Storing and Reheating

This skillet dinner is a fantastic make-ahead option. You can prepare it in advance and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming, or you can use the microwave for quicker reheating. If reheating in the skillet, add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat frozen portions, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up in a skillet or microwave. This method preserves the dish's flavors and texture remarkably well.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Ground Beef Skillet Dinner pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread, which can be used to soak up any flavorful juices left on your plate. If you prefer not to serve it over rice or pasta, consider offering it in lettuce cups for a low-carb option. This way, you can enjoy all the robust flavors while keeping it light and fresh.

To elevate your meal further, add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream right before serving. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro can also brighten the dish, adding a pop of color and freshness that complements the hearty flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leaner ground meat?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

→ What vegetables work well in this recipe?

Almost any vegetable can be used—carrots, green beans, or spinach are great options.

→ Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Yes, you can chop your veggies and cook the beef in advance, then reheat everything just before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.