When the day slips away faster than you expected and the kitchen calls for something quick but comforting, this ground beef skillet dinner steps in as your reliable savior. It’s simple, flavorful, and packed with colors that brighten your plate and your mood. The aroma alone pulls you in, promising a satisfying meal in under half an hour.

One evening, after a long day of juggling tasks, I remember the moment the skillet sizzled on the stove. The smell of browned beef mingled with garlic and onions filled the room, wrapping around me like a warm hug. As the vegetables softened and the cheese melted into a gooey blanket, the anticipation grew. Sitting down with that skillet meal, every bite was a reminder that fast food at home can truly feel like a treat. It’s the kind of dinner that makes you pause, appreciate the simple joys, and maybe even savor an extra bite.

Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Combines ground beef with fresh vegetables for a balanced meal.
Seasoned with herbs and a touch of spice for comforting flavor.
Cheese melts on top for a rich, gooey finish.
Easy cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet.

If you’ve ever worried that quick dinners can’t be both tasty and wholesome, this skillet recipe will change your mind. It’s straightforward, reliable, and feels like a home-cooked hug without the fuss.

Ground Beef Skillet Dinner

Print Recipe

A hearty and easy ground beef skillet dinner loaded with vegetables and seasoned with savory spices, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Drain excess fat from the skillet if necessary.
Add the diced red bell pepper, sliced mushrooms, and diced zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Stir in the cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and flavors combine.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 2 minutes until the cheese melts.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days and reheats beautifully in a skillet or microwave.

What can I swap if I don’t have some vegetables? Feel free to substitute with what you have on hand—carrots, spinach, or green beans would work nicely.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly? It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, as the vegetables may lose texture if frozen.

Can I use a different type of cheese? Definitely. Mozzarella or Monterey Jack are great alternatives if you want a milder melt.

Give this skillet dinner a try next time you need a quick, satisfying meal. It’s straightforward, flavorful, and just the kind of dish that turns everyday dinner into something worth looking forward to.