Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings, this Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner brings together savory flavors and easy preparation for a delightful meal.
This Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner is not just filling but also brings warmth and comfort to your table. The combination of ground beef, vegetables, and spices creates a delightful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy one-pan meal for busy weeknights
- Rich flavors that satisfy the whole family
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite veggies
A Hearty Meal for Chilly Nights
When the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there's nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal to lift your spirits. The Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner is designed to provide comfort in every bite, making it the perfect dish for those cozy evenings spent at home. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, this meal is sure to become a family favorite during the colder months.
This recipe not only brings warmth to your dinner table, but it also encourages togetherness. Cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones is a timeless tradition that fosters connection and creates lasting memories. The ease of this one-pan dish means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of family and friends.
Customizable and Versatile
One of the best aspects of the Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner is its versatility. Feel free to mix and match the vegetables to suit your family's preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you prefer zucchini, carrots, or even spinach, this dish can easily adapt to your tastes, making it a great option for picky eaters.
In addition to being customizable, this recipe is perfect for using up leftover vegetables. If you have any fresh produce that needs to be consumed, simply throw it into the skillet for added nutrition and flavor. This not only reduces food waste but also enhances the dish, making it even more satisfying.
Quick and Convenient Cooking
In today's fast-paced world, time is often a luxury, especially during busy weeknights. The Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner is designed with convenience in mind. With a prep and cook time of under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, home-cooked meal on the table in no time. The one-pan aspect means less cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of a pile of dishes afterward.
This recipe is also an excellent choice for meal prep. You can easily double the ingredients and make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week. Simply store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer, and you'll have a ready-made meal waiting for you on those days when cooking from scratch just isn't an option.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.
Cooking Instructions
Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Sauté Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, frozen mixed vegetables, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Cook Through
Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and flavors meld.
Serve hot directly from the skillet for a cozy dining experience.
Tips for Perfecting Your Skillet Dinner
To ensure your Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner turns out perfectly every time, start with high-quality ground beef. Look for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the best flavor and texture. Sautéing the vegetables until they are just tender will also enhance their natural sweetness and prevent them from becoming mushy during cooking.
Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings to suit your palate. If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a deeper flavor, you can also try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
This cozy skillet dinner pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of warm, crusty bread would also complement the meal nicely, providing a great way to enjoy every last drop of flavor.
For a refreshing contrast, serve a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette alongside your skillet dinner. The crispness of the salad will balance the hearty nature of the main dish, making for a well-rounded meal that satisfies all your cravings.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers from your Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner, storing them properly is key to maintaining their flavor and texture. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of beef broth or water to bring it back to life. With proper storage and reheating techniques, you can enjoy this comforting meal multiple times throughout the week without losing its deliciousness.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter option.
→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or extra beans and lentils.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add zucchini, spinach, or any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings, this Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner brings together savory flavors and easy preparation for a delightful meal.
Created by: Perrie Lawson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, frozen mixed vegetables, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and flavors meld.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 35g