Some evenings, the clock races ahead faster than you plan, and you find yourself staring at the fridge without a clear game plan. That’s exactly what happened the other night — I was juggling emails and half-listening to a podcast, when the smell of onions sizzling caught my attention. It pulled me into the kitchen like a beacon. The ground beef bubbling gently with garlic and paprika filled the room, making the whole space feel like a cozy retreat from the chaos. I can’t say I measured every spice perfectly; honestly, I was distracted by a text and added a little extra paprika on a hunch. Somehow, it worked. Sitting down with a bowl of the warm, savory mix paired with some simple sides, it felt like the perfect little pause I didn’t know I needed.
- Ready in just about 25 minutes—ideal for those evenings when you want something hot and satisfying fast.
- Simple ingredients that probably already live in your pantry and fridge, which means no last-minute grocery runs.
- It’s versatile but not complicated — it might not win awards for fancy plating, but it’s honest and full of flavor.
- Because it’s cooked all on the stovetop, cleanup is easier than you’d expect, even after a busy day.
It’s not a dish that requires elaborate technique or perfect timing, which can be a relief when your brain is all over the place. Sometimes, simple is exactly what the evening calls for.
PrintStovetop Ground Beef Dinner
A simple and flavorful stovetop ground beef dinner perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe features seasoned ground beef cooked with onions and garlic, ready to be served with your favorite sides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
Drain excess fat from the skillet if necessary.
Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano.
Add tomato paste and beef broth to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients.
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
Remove from heat and serve hot with your favorite sides such as rice, pasta, or vegetables.
Using just a sturdy skillet and a spatula, this recipe is approachable even if you’re not usually a cook. I usually serve it with a side of steamed veggies or over a bed of rice — nothing fancy, but it hits the spot every time. If you want to switch things up, stirring in a handful of frozen peas near the end or topping with a sprinkle of sharp cheese can add a nice twist, though I haven’t tested all the variations thoroughly. Sometimes I wonder if a little splash of hot sauce would work, but that’s for next time.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days and reheats on the stove or microwave.
What can I serve it with? Rice, pasta, or even roasted veggies are great companions. Honestly, whatever you have on hand works.
Is it spicy? Not really. The paprika adds warmth, but it’s mild overall — adjust spices if you want more kick.
When dinner time feels rushed or your motivation dips, this stovetop ground beef dinner has a way of making things feel a bit simpler. Maybe it’s the familiar sizzle or the blend of garlic and spices, but it offers a moment of comfort you can count on. Give it a try next time you need a quick, no-fuss meal that still feels like a little celebration on your plate.