Ground Beef Skillet Smoky

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Ground Beef Skillet Smoky is a quick and delicious meal that brings together the rich flavors of beef with a smoky twist. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-25T18:34:05.117Z

This Ground Beef Skillet Smoky recipe is not just a meal; it's a flavor-packed experience. With its smoky undertones and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Smoky flavor that elevates the classic beef skillet
  • Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
  • A one-pan dish that minimizes cleanup

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity and flavor are key. This Ground Beef Skillet Smoky strikes the perfect balance, offering a hearty meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. With just one pan and minimal prep, you can have a satisfying dish on the table in no time. The combination of ground beef and fresh vegetables not only provides essential nutrients but also creates a colorful and inviting presentation that the whole family will enjoy.

Additionally, this recipe is versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to fit your taste preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a family of five or just for yourself, this dish can be scaled up or down, making it a fantastic option for any night of the week.

Smoky Flavor Profile

The smoky flavor in this dish comes from the smoked paprika, which adds depth and richness without overwhelming the palate. This unique twist elevates the traditional beef skillet, making it a standout meal that appeals to both adults and children. The smoky essence pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the corn and the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a harmonious blend that is as comforting as it is delicious.

Moreover, smoked paprika is a wonderful spice that can be used in various dishes beyond this skillet. It brings a warm, smoky undertone to soups, stews, and even roasted vegetables, making it a staple for any aspiring home cook looking to enhance their culinary repertoire.

Convenience and Cleanup

One of the most significant advantages of this Ground Beef Skillet Smoky is the convenience it offers. Cooking everything in one pan not only reduces cooking time but also minimizes cleanup, making it ideal for busy individuals or families. After a long day, the last thing you want is a mountain of dishes to wash, and this recipe helps you avoid that hassle while still delivering a satisfying meal.

Moreover, leftovers can easily be stored in the refrigerator for a quick reheat the next day, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Whether you enjoy it as is or use it as a filling for tacos or burritos, you’ll find that the flavors only get better with time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure you have everything ready to make cooking easier!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ground Beef Skillet Smoky:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the bell pepper, corn, and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your smoky beef skillet!

Enjoy your meal!

Tips for Success

For the best results, choose high-quality ground beef with a bit of fat content, as this will add flavor and moisture to your dish. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can also work well, but be mindful that they may require additional seasoning to achieve a similar flavor profile.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the vegetables used in this dish. Zucchini, mushrooms, or even black beans can add variety and additional nutrients, making it even more wholesome. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly for any new ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef Skillet Smoky is delicious on its own, but serving it over a bed of rice or alongside warm tortillas can take it to the next level. For a fresh contrast, consider preparing a simple side salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette to complement the rich flavors of the skillet.

Additionally, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese can enhance the dish further, providing creamy richness that pairs wonderfully with the smoky undertones. Don’t forget to serve it with your favorite hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground beef.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños while cooking.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This smoky beef skillet pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a side salad.

Ground Beef Skillet Smoky

This Ground Beef Skillet Smoky is a quick and delicious meal that brings together the rich flavors of beef with a smoky twist. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 1 medium onion, chopped
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 bell pepper, diced
  5. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  6. 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  7. 2 tsp smoked paprika
  8. 1 tsp cumin
  9. Salt and pepper to taste
  10. 2 tbsp olive oil
  11. Fresh parsley for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Step 02

Stir in the bell pepper, corn, and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 03

Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 04

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your smoky beef skillet!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 30g