Ground Beef And Veggie Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Veggie Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Basic Quick Meals Ideas

I love whipping up a quick and hearty meal, and this Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet checks all the boxes! With tender ground beef, colorful vegetables, and a savory seasoning blend, this dish not only satisfies my hunger but is also a breeze to prepare in under 30 minutes. It's one of those recipes that I can throw together after a long day, and it always brings comfort and warmth to my table. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with whatever veggies I have on hand, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:29:36.085Z

When I first tried this Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet, I was amazed at how something so simple could be so flavorful and satisfying. The combination of sautéed vegetables and seasoned beef creates a delicious, hearty dish that warms you up from the inside out. I often experiment with different spice blends, and I found that a touch of Italian seasoning elevates the flavors beautifully.

One particular detail that makes a difference is letting the beef brown properly before adding the vegetables. This enhances the overall flavor and texture, creating a dish that everyone in my family loves. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients by adding whatever fresh or leftover veggies I have on hand!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-skillet meal makes cleanup a breeze
Packed with protein and veggies for a balanced dish
Customizable with any seasonal vegetables you have

Ingredient Spotlight: The Role of Vegetables

In this Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet, the vegetables are not just a colorful addition; they play a crucial role in balancing the richness of the beef. The bell pepper brings a subtle sweetness, while zucchini adds a tender, slightly crisp texture that complements the meat beautifully. Cherry tomatoes burst with juice, providing acidity that enhances the overall dish. When sautéed, these veggies not only uplift the flavor profile but also contribute essential nutrients, making your meal wholesome and satisfying.

When choosing your vegetables, aim for a mix of textures and colors to keep it visually appealing and nutritionally balanced. You can easily substitute seasonal veggies depending on what's available. Consider using spinach for a leafy option, or carrots for a sweet crunch. Just be aware that some vegetables may require a longer cooking time. For instance, if using carrots, slice them thinly and add them earlier in the cooking process to ensure they're tender by the time everything is done.

Key Cooking Techniques

The cooking technique in this skillet meal is essential for achieving the desired depth of flavor. Start by browning your ground beef properly; this stage is critical as it develops a rich, savory base through the Maillard reaction. Make sure to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. A wooden spatula works best here—this ensures even browning without damaging the skillet surface. If the beef releases too much liquid, simply drain it off before continuing with the onions and garlic.

After adding onions and garlic, aim for a fragrant sauté. Cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial; if you overcook the garlic, it'll become bitter, so stir frequently to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture looks glossy and the onions are softened but not browned. Incorporating the vegetables afterward allows them to retain their vibrant colors and crunch, giving you the best texture and taste.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a flavorful Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Once you have everything ready, you can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your meal:

Cook the Beef

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

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent. Incorporate the bell pepper and zucchini, sautéing for another 5 minutes.

Add Seasoning and Tomatoes

Stir in the cherry tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 5-8 minutes until the veggies are tender and everything is heated through.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet!

Enjoy your meal with your favorite side or alone!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what's in season or what you have available. Adding spinach or kale at the last minute is also a great way to boost the nutrients!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers of this Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last about 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the leftovers just as appealing as the fresh dish. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to restore some of that initial texture, or microwave in short bursts to warm through without drying it out.

For longer storage, consider freezing your skillet meal. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Take care not to overcook during reheating to maintain the vegetables' textures.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet is its versatility. You can easily switch out ground beef for other proteins like ground turkey or chicken if you wish to reduce fat content. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or crumbled tofu, ensuring you adjust cooking times accordingly. Just sauté them until heated through and flavorful rather than browning like the beef.

Feel free to experiment with the seasonings as well. While Italian seasoning brings a delightful herbaceous flavor, consider a taco seasoning blend for a southwest twist. Adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce during cooking can add depth and umami, taking your dish to the next level. Don't hesitate to play around with these elements to find what you love most!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef and veggies ahead and store them in the fridge. Simply reheat when ready to eat.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months.