Hamburger Meat And Tomato Skillet

Name: Hamburger Meat And Tomato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: Grated cheese for topping

Highlighted under: Traditional Family Comfort

I love quick and hearty meals, and this Hamburger Meat and Tomato Skillet is my go-to dish for busy weeknights. It combines ground beef with fresh tomatoes and spices, creating a deliciously comforting meal that can be thrown together in just a few minutes. With its savory flavors and satisfying texture, it’s a dish that my family looks forward to every time I make it. Whether paired with rice, pasta, or simply served on its own, it’s a versatile recipe that never fails to deliver.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-02-28T06:41:35.606Z

Cooking is an art, and I've always found that simple dishes like this Hamburger Meat and Tomato Skillet allow me to express my creativity. I remember the first time I prepared this meal; the aroma of sizzling beef mingled with fresh tomatoes instantly made my kitchen feel warm and inviting. I used fresh herbs from my garden, which elevated the flavors and added a homemade touch.

One key tip I discovered is to let the meat brown well before adding the tomatoes. This step creates depth in flavor and enhances the overall dish. Plus, it really cuts down on prep time when all the ingredients are tossed into the skillet in stages, ensuring everything cooks evenly.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty, comforting flavors that satisfy
Quick and easy preparation for busy nights
Versatile dish that pairs well with various sides

Building Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh tomatoes in this recipe not only enhances the flavor but also adds brightness to the dish. If fresh tomatoes aren't available, opt for high-quality canned tomatoes; look for varieties packed in juice rather than syrup for a more authentic taste. Regardless of the type you choose, ensure they are diced uniformly to promote even cooking. The oils released during cooking, combined with the sweetness of the tomatoes, create a rich, cohesive sauce that binds the entire dish.

The choice of herbs, dried oregano and basil, plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor profile. Dried herbs have concentrated flavors that bloom when heated, particularly in the presence of fat from the olive oil and the beef. If you're looking to experiment, fresh herbs can be used instead, but remember to add them towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their vibrant flavor.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

Brown the ground beef thoroughly, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. If you add too much meat at once, it may steam rather than brown, resulting in a less flavorful dish. Aim for a nice golden color on the beef; this not only adds flavor through the Maillard reaction but also contributes to a pleasing texture. When you drain the fat, consider leaving a tablespoon in the pan for sautéing the onions and garlic, as it adds richness to the dish.

Simmering the mixture for at least 15 minutes is key to developing deeper flavors. This step allows the acidity of the tomatoes to mellow while the herbs infuse their essence into the beef. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on the heat; it should be low enough that the mixture gently bubbles rather than frantically boils, which could lead to uneven cooking.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Hamburger Meat and Tomato Skillet

1 lb ground beef
2 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Grated cheese for topping

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot, topped with grated cheese if desired, over rice or pasta, or simply with crusty bread.

Enjoy your delicious meal with family or friends!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try using a mix of fresh and dried herbs. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're seeking a lighter alternative to ground beef, try using ground turkey or chicken. These options will yield a dish that's lower in fat, but you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly as poultry generally cooks quicker. For added texture, consider mixing in some finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini during the browning phase; they complement the flavors well and are a great way to sneak in extra nutrients.

To up the flavor even more, think about incorporating a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce when you add the tomatoes. This addition brings a savory depth that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the tomatoes. For those seeking a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can spice things up.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Hamburger Meat and Tomato Skillet makes for excellent leftovers and can be prepared in advance. If you plan to make it ahead of time, cook it fully, let it cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat for even warming, adding a bit of water or broth if it appears dry. This method helps maintain its texture and flavor.

For longer storage, this dish freezes very well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Be sure to stir intermittently while reheating to ensure all of the dish is warmed through evenly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

→ What should I serve with it?

This skillet dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or a simple salad for a balanced meal.