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 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Delights

When I'm looking for a quick and satisfying meal, I often turn to my Ground Beef Skillet with Vegetables. It's a dish that comes together in about 30 minutes, which is perfect for those busy weeknights. With the rich flavors of beef combined with colorful veggies, I feel like I’m giving my family a balanced meal without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s an easy one-pot dish that minimizes clean-up, making it a winner in my kitchen!

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:25:09.383Z

Every time I make my Ground Beef Skillet with Vegetables, I fall in love with the vibrant colors and the enticing aroma that fills my kitchen. It’s amazing how such simple ingredients can transform into a comforting meal that everyone enjoys. I’ve learned that browning the beef properly is key; it develops a depth of flavor that really elevates the entire dish.

What I appreciate most is the adaptability of this recipe. I often use whatever vegetables I have on hand, whether it's bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. This flexibility not only minimizes waste but allows me to incorporate seasonal produce. It’s truly a dish that can be customized to fit our preferences!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy one-pan meal for busy weeknights
Packed with colorful vegetables for a nutritious boost
Flavorful beef that complements fresh herbs and spices

      

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

The key to a truly flavorful Ground Beef Skillet lies in the freshness of your ingredients. Using a high-quality ground beef not only enhances the tastiness but also adds richness to the dish. Choose lean ground beef for a lower fat option, or go for a slightly fattier blend if you prefer a juicier outcome. The beef should be browned until it achieves a nice deep color, indicating that the Maillard reaction is taking place, which intensifies the overall flavor profile.

Incorporating a variety of vegetables is not just for the nutritional value; they also contribute to the texture and flavor. I recommend using seasonal vegetables for the best taste. For instance, if zucchini is out of season, you can swap it with asparagus or green beans. The crunch from the broccoli florets and the sweetness of the bell pepper create a contrast that makes each bite exciting. Make sure to cut your vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

Cooking Technique and Timing

The cooking technique is essential to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this recipe. When sautéing the onion and garlic, use a medium heat to avoid burning; you’re aiming for the onion to be soft and slightly translucent. I find that a wooden spatula is perfect for stirring, which helps to scrape up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan that contribute to the dish's depth.

Be cautious not to overcook the vegetables. They should remain vibrant and slightly crisp, with a bright color that signifies they are perfectly cooked. Covering the skillet while the vegetables cook creates steam, which helps them soften without losing their integrity. If you're unsure, taste the veggies around the 8-minute mark; they should have a tender bite but not be mushy.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious meal!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 cup broccoli florets
1 zucchini, sliced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Skillet Meal.

Cook the Beef

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

Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3 minutes.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the bell pepper, broccoli, and zucchini. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender.

Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Your delicious ground beef skillet is ready to be served!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the vegetables based on what you have on hand or in season. Adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavors too!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is fantastic for meal prepping! Prepare the recipe in advance and store it in an airtight container. Refrigerated, it will keep well for up to 3 days. For those who wish to freeze, portion out the skillet into freezer-safe containers and store them for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to restore moisture—microwave or reheat on the stove until heated through.

You can also cook the ground beef and vegetables separately in advance. Store each in the fridge and combine them right before serving. This allows you to customize your meals based on what sides or grains you might want to pair with them, like rice or quinoa, to make the dish feel fresh every time.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While the Ground Beef Skillet is hearty on its own, you can elevate the dish by serving it over a bed of cooked rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes. A sprinkle of grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream adds a delicious creamy element that contrasts beautifully with the savory beef and vegetables. Don't shy away from adding a little crushed red pepper for a spicy kick!

For a family-friendly twist, you can also adapt the dish for picky eaters. Try substituting ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version. Additionally, varying the types of vegetables can keep the dish exciting; corn, peas, or even sweet potatoes can each bring a different flavor and texture, making it fun to experiment.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this recipe.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even a side salad for a more filling meal.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free seasonings and sauces, this dish is gluten-free.