One Pan Ground Beef Recipes

Name: One Pan Ground Beef Recipes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Traditional Family Comfort

I often find myself in search of quick and delicious meals that can be prepared without a lot of fuss. One Pan Ground Beef Recipes have quickly become a staple in my kitchen because they combine bold flavors with minimal cleanup. Cooking everything in one pan not only saves time, but also allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, these recipes deliver comfort and satisfaction in just under 30 minutes.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:04:18.954Z

When experimenting with One Pan Ground Beef Recipes, I stumbled upon a great combination of spices that elevate the dish to a new level. It’s fascinating how the flavors of garlic and paprika blend harmoniously with the beef, bringing warmth to each bite. I find that simmering for just a few extra minutes really helps to develop the depth of flavor.

One day, I added a splash of Worcestershire sauce, and it completely transformed the dish! That little twist turned a simple meal into something truly memorable and delicious. I now make sure to keep my pantry stocked with it for those moments of culinary inspiration.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation without sacrificing flavor
One pan means less cleanup and more family time
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite vegetables

Maximizing Flavor with Minimal Effort

This One Pan Ground Beef recipe exemplifies how to pack maximum flavor into a meal that requires minimal effort. The browning of the ground beef is crucial—this Maillard reaction creates savory depth that elevates the entire dish. As the meat sizzles, make sure to break it apart thoroughly; achieving even browning is essential to prevent any chewing through clumps of raw beef. Aim for a golden-brown color without burning, which typically takes around 5 minutes over medium heat.

Incorporating aromatic vegetables like onions and garlic at the right moment adds layers to the flavor profile. Cook these until the onions become translucent, about 3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. This brief sauté softens the vegetables while enhancing their natural sweetness, making a flavorful base for the dish. Remember to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, as they are packed with flavor that you want to incorporate into the sauce.

Ingredient Pairings and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While bell peppers add a crisp texture and sweet note, feel free to use other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a different flair. In my personal experience, adding a handful of fresh spinach towards the end of cooking not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant color. For those who prefer spice, consider incorporating jalapeños or red pepper flakes, which can be added along with the bell peppers to heat up the dish a notch.

If you're aiming for a healthier alternative to ground beef, turkey or chicken can serve as excellent substitutes without sacrificing the dish's integrity. Just keep in mind that leaner meats will require a small drizzle of oil in the pan to prevent sticking. The cooking times may slightly vary, so watch your meat carefully during the browning step, aiming for a similar golden-brown color.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup bell peppers, chopped
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.

Incorporate Remaining Ingredients

Add bell peppers, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Simmer and Serve

Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Stir occasionally. Once the flavors meld, remove from heat and serve warm.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. They wilt beautifully and add a nice nutritional boost.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This One Pan Ground Beef dish excels in its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the ingredients in advance—chop the onions and peppers, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you’re ready to cook, simply brown the beef and add your prepped vegetables. This cuts down on active cooking time significantly, making it an ideal weeknight meal for busy families.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if the mixture appears dry. This will help retain moisture and prevent the beef from becoming tough as it reheats.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly adaptable when it comes to serving. For a hearty meal, serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa, allowing the grains to soak up the flavorful sauce. Alternatively, for a lower-carb option, try serving it in lettuce wraps or alongside a simple green salad. The fresh crunch of the lettuce provides a refreshing contrast to the savory beef mixture.

For an extra touch of flavor, garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese can also add creaminess that complements the dish wonderfully. Not only do these additions enhance the overall presentation, but they elevate the taste profile, ensuring each bite is satisfying and rich.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Zucchini, corn, or carrots work well in this recipe; use whatever you have on hand.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the mixture to give it a nice kick.