Ground Beef Skillet Budget Friendly

Name: Ground Beef Skillet Budget Friendly
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 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup frozen corn; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Cooked rice or pasta for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A delicious and affordable meal that brings together ground beef and fresh vegetables in one easy skillet dish.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-25T16:01:07.024Z

This ground beef skillet is not just budget-friendly; it's a comforting meal that the whole family will love. Packed with protein and vegetables, it's a one-pan wonder that saves time on cleanup too!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Customizable with your favorite vegetables
Budget-friendly, making it perfect for families

      

A One-Pan Wonder

One of the greatest advantages of the Ground Beef Skillet is its simplicity. With just one pan required, you'll save time on both cooking and cleanup. This means you can spend more time with your family or enjoying your evening rather than washing a mountain of dishes. The skillet method also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting meal that feels homemade without the fuss.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table quickly. In under 30 minutes, you can have a hearty meal ready for your family. Plus, the use of ground beef means that you can easily increase or decrease the quantity based on your needs without worrying about overcooking.

Versatile Ingredients

Another appealing aspect of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family's preferences. If you’re not a fan of corn, consider adding black beans or diced zucchini instead. If you want to spice things up, throw in some jalapeños or use a spicier chili powder. This adaptability makes it a great option for those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen.

Additionally, feel free to mix in any leftover vegetables you may have. Broccoli, carrots, or even spinach would complement the dish nicely, adding nutrients and extra flavor. This recipe is all about using what you love and making it your own.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking to streamline your week, this Ground Beef Skillet is a fantastic option for meal prepping. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a convenient choice for those busy weeks ahead.

To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave. This dish also freezes beautifully, allowing you to save some for later when you need a quick meal. Just ensure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious ground beef skillet:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup frozen corn
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Cooked rice or pasta for serving

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your ground beef skillet:

Cook the Beef

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

Add Vegetables

Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, corn, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Serve hot over cooked rice or pasta, and enjoy your budget-friendly meal!

This skillet dish is versatile and can be served with various sides!

Tips for the Best Flavor

To enhance the flavor of your Ground Beef Skillet, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce while cooking. These ingredients elevate the umami profile of the beef, making the dish even more satisfying. Additionally, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can be sprinkled on top before serving to add a burst of freshness.

Don’t forget to taste and adjust your seasonings as you go. Every palate is different, and a little extra salt or a dash of hot sauce can make a big difference in bringing the dish together perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet meal pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top. Avocado slices or guacamole can also add a creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully.

If you’d like to make it even heartier, serve it over a bed of quinoa or couscous for added nutrients and fiber. These options not only enhance the dish but also provide a delightful contrast in texture.

Nutritional Information

This Ground Beef Skillet is not only budget-friendly but also packed with nutrition. Ground beef is a great source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a balanced meal. The addition of vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes increases the fiber content, contributing to a healthy diet.

By customizing the vegetables, you can boost the vitamin and mineral intake even further. Always aim for a colorful plate, as different colors typically represent different nutrients, ensuring you and your family get a well-rounded meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give it an extra kick!

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or a side salad.