Ground Beef And Veggie Skillet
Highlighted under: Express Plate Creations
I love making a quick and delicious Ground Beef And Veggie Skillet for dinner! With just a few ingredients and less than 30 minutes of my time, I can whip up a hearty meal that’s satisfying and nutritious. This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with veggies that make every bite wholesome. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s become one of my go-to recipes that my family enjoys and requests often.
When I first started cooking, I wanted to create meals that were quick yet satisfying. The Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet was one of my earliest successes. I remember how thrilled my family was to sit down to a colorful dinner that smelled amazing. The method really shines with the fresh veggies, which add texture and flavor to the savory beef.
One time, I added some leftover quinoa to the skillet, and it transformed the dish, making it even heartier. So now, I often remix this recipe based on what I have on hand, and it always turns out great!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Packed with nutritious vegetables that add color and texture
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Flavorful spices bring the ground beef to life
Cooking Technique for Perfectly Browned Beef
Achieving the perfect sear on your ground beef is essential for flavor development. When you heat your skillet, make sure it's adequately hot before adding the beef. You want to hear a sizzle as it hits the pan. This golden-browning process, known as the Maillard reaction, creates a rich flavor base that enhances the overall dish. Cook the beef until it's evenly browned—not just gray—keeping it moving occasionally to prevent sticking.
If you find your beef isn't browning as expected, it may be due to overcrowding in the pan. In such cases, consider cooking in batches. Using a spatula, break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. This will help achieve that coveted texture and color. Aim for a light crispy edge on some bits for that additional depth of flavor.
Understanding Vegetable Selection and Timing
The choice of vegetables in this skillet is key to both nutrition and flavor. Bell peppers add sweetness and crunch, while zucchini absorbs the savory juices for a satisfying texture. Broccoli florets not only introduce an earthy aspect but also maintain their bite when cooked properly. It’s crucial to add these veggies in stages—starting with the onion and garlic—to ensure even cooking and that their flavors meld beautifully into the beef.
When you add the other vegetables, aim for a vibrant color but don't overcook them. They should be tender yet still maintain some crunch, which usually takes about five minutes. If you prefer softer vegetables, extend cooking time by 1-2 minutes, but be cautious as overcooking may lead to a mushy texture.
Customizing Flavor Profiles and Serving Suggestions
While the paprika, salt, and pepper create a subtle and balanced flavor, consider experimenting with other spices to personalize this dish. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef while it cooks. Alternatively, for a Mediterranean twist, try oregano or Italian seasoning. You can truly make this skillet your own depending on your family's preferences.
Serving this skillet meal can be versatile. Try it over a bed of quinoa, rice, or even in whole grain wraps for a hearty dinner. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and can easily be reheated in the microwave. If you anticipate leftovers, consider doubling the recipe while maintaining balance with additional spices for an easy lunch option!
Ingredients
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious skillet meal:
Ground Beef and Veggies
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Once you have everything ready, you can start cooking!
Instructions
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet:
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned, about 5 minutes.
Add Vegetables
Stir in the onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Then add bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Season and Serve
Sprinkle paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and serve warm.
Enjoy your deliciously easy skillet meal!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, try experimenting with different spices or adding in your favorite herbs. You can also swap out the vegetables based on what you have available or your personal preference.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare it in advance and store it in individual portions in the refrigerator for busy weeknights. The dish stays fresh for up to three days, allowing for quick reheating during those hectic evenings.
If you plan to freeze portions, let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to revive the veggies’ texture.
Variations for Dietary Preferences
For a healthier alternative, you can swap out the ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken, which still provide a rich base but with less fat content. This transition works seamlessly with the recipe's intended flavors; just remember that leaner meats may require additional seasonings to compensate for reduced richness.
Vegetarians can replace ground beef with plant-based alternatives, such as lentils or crumbled tofu, which absorb flavors well. Make sure to adjust cooking times if using lentils since they might need longer to become tender. This way, you can enjoy the same nutritious benefit and flavors without any meat.
Flavor Enhancements Using Fresh Herbs
Incorporating fresh herbs can elevate this skillet dish significantly. Adding chopped parsley or cilantro at the end of cooking adds a burst of freshness that counters the heartiness of the beef and veggies. This final touch not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the dish's visual appeal.
If you're a fan of basil or thyme, consider including them during the last minute of cooking. Their delicate leaves will impart a wonderful fragrance and depth of flavor without overpowering the existing spices. This approach offers a tailored flavor profile each time you make the dish, keeping it exciting.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great lean option if you're looking to reduce fat.
→ What other veggies can I add?
Feel free to incorporate any vegetables you have on hand, such as carrots, spinach, or corn.
→ Can leftovers be stored?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Ground Beef And Veggie Skillet
I love making a quick and delicious Ground Beef And Veggie Skillet for dinner! With just a few ingredients and less than 30 minutes of my time, I can whip up a hearty meal that’s satisfying and nutritious. This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with veggies that make every bite wholesome. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s become one of my go-to recipes that my family enjoys and requests often.
Created by: Fiona Carter
Recipe Type: Express Plate Creations
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef and Veggies
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Then add bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Sprinkle paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and serve warm.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, try experimenting with different spices or adding in your favorite herbs. You can also swap out the vegetables based on what you have available or your personal preference.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g