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 pound ground beef; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Easy Food Favorites

I love making this Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet on busy weeknights when time is of the essence. It’s a one-pan meal that’s not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of ground beef and an array of colorful vegetables creates a balanced dish that's satisfying and delicious. Plus, I appreciate how easy it is to modify the veggies based on what I have on hand. This recipe quickly became a family favorite, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-02-15T00:01:36.795Z

When I first tried making a Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet, I wasn't sure if all the flavors would come together. However, I was pleasantly surprised how well the beef complemented the fresh vegetables. Sautéing them together allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I’ve also experimented with different spices, but I find that a simple blend of salt, pepper, and paprika brings just the right kick!

One of my favorite hacks for this meal is to batch cook the beef on the weekend. That way, on busy nights, I can simply toss in the veggies and have dinner on the table in no time. It’s a great way to ensure we’re eating wholesome meals without sacrificing time during the week!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes
Packed with nutritious veggies and protein
One-pan cleanup makes for easy cooking and fewer dishes

Ingredient Insights

In this Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet, ground beef provides not only protein but also moisture and flavor. Choosing a leaner beef option can help reduce excess grease, making for a cleaner dish. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly since they can cook faster than beef.

The array of vegetables adds both nutrition and color to the dish. Bell peppers bring sweetness, while zucchini offers a mild flavor and absorbs the spices. Broccoli contributes a satisfying crunch and earthy undertones. Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or carrots, adjusting cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.

Cooking Techniques

Precise cooking of the ground beef is critical for flavor development. Ensure that the meat is well-browned by giving it enough space in the skillet; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead. A properly heated skillet should create a nice sizzle when the beef is added, and be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption.

When sautéing the vegetables, cook them until they have a slight char and are tender but still vibrant in color. This not only enhances their flavor but also helps retain nutrients. Try not to stir too frequently to allow the veggies to develop a bit of caramelization, which adds depth to the overall flavor profile.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving this skillet dish straight from the pan is not just convenient but also visually appealing. I love garnishing with fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, to add color and freshness. It pairs well with a side of rice or quinoa, making it a more complete meal. Additionally, a sprinkle of cheese on top just before serving can elevate the dish to another level of deliciousness.

For meal prepping, the Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. For longer storage, consider freezing portions; it keeps well for up to three months. Just defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Have everything ready? Let’s get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps:

Cook the Beef

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

Sauté the Vegetables

Once the beef is cooked, add the onions and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent. Then, add the bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

Combine and Serve

Once everything is cooked to your liking, give it a final stir and remove from heat. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet!

That’s it! A wholesome meal ready for you in no time.

Pro Tips

Feel free to switch up the veggies based on your preferences or what’s in season. You can also add herbs or spices for extra flavor, such as Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper.

Variations to Explore

This recipe can easily be customized to cater to your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a spicier kick, adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the sautéing process will infuse a nice warmth into the dish. On the other hand, for a milder option, you can omit the spices or use sweet paprika instead.

You can also experiment with different herbs and spices. Try adding Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist or taco seasoning for a Southwestern flair. Each variation can completely change the dish's character, making it feel new every time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your vegetables are overcooked before the beef is ready, simply remove them from the skillet halfway through cooking. You can cover the pan with a lid to keep them warm and return them to the skillet once the beef has finished cooking. This way, you avoid mushy vegetables.

Some may encounter excess grease from the beef. If this happens, feel free to drain some of the fat from the skillet after browning the meat. Just use a slotted spoon to remove the beef, pour off the excess grease, and return the beef to the skillet before adding the vegetables.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives!

→ What vegetables work best in this recipe?

You can use any vegetables you have on hand! Carrots, green beans, or spinach are great options.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook the beef and veggies and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free. Just double-check any store-bought items for gluten content.