Ground Beef One Pan Meals

Name: Ground Beef One Pan Meals
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh); 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love the simplicity of one pan meals, especially when using ground beef. The combination of flavors that come together in just one dish is not only satisfying but also makes clean-up a breeze. In my kitchen, these meals have become a staple for busy weeknights. I appreciate how versatile ground beef is, allowing me to create different flavor profiles from Mexican to Italian, all in minimal time. Plus, the aroma that fills the house while these meals are cooking is simply irresistible!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:25:46.051Z

When I first experimented with one pan meals, I was amazed at how efficiently everything cooked together. I remember trying a southwestern-style dish with ground beef, bell peppers, and spices. It not only saved time in cooking but also blended the flavors beautifully. The trick is to add the veggies at different times, ensuring they keep their crunch while the beef cooks through.

This method works wonderfully with various ingredients; I’ve even swapped out the seasonings based on what I have on hand. By doing this, I learned that grounding the beef with well-balanced spices can truly infuse the whole dish with flavor. It’s an easy way to impress while keeping things uncomplicated!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation without sacrificing flavor
A variety of flavors that can be customized for everyone's taste
Minimal cleanup with just one pan to wash

      

Maximizing Flavor with Ground Beef

Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that acts as a robust foundation for this one-pan meal. When selecting your ground beef, aim for a mixture with around 15-20% fat; this balance will render enough fat during cooking to keep the beef juicy and flavorful without being overly greasy. The initial browning of the beef not only develops a deeper flavor through the Maillard reaction but also sets the stage for the vegetables to absorb all that deliciousness. Watch for a rich brown color, as this signals the ideal browning has occurred.

Incorporating spices at the right time can make a world of difference. For example, adding paprika and cumin after browning the beef allows their oils to release, enhancing the overall aroma and flavor of the dish. I like to toast the spices for a minute or two before adding the wet ingredients, bringing out a more complex flavor profile that elevates the dish. This technique ensures every bite is packed with savory goodness.

Vegetable Varieties and Additions

The mixed vegetables in this recipe not only boost nutritional value but also contribute various textures and flavors. You can easily customize the vegetable mix based on what’s in your fridge or pantry. For a colorful twist, consider adding corn for sweetness or zucchini for a tender crunch. If you prefer a spicy kick, diced jalapeños or chopped spinach can enhance the meal without too much fuss. Just remember, if you choose to add vegetables that release more moisture, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is properly cooked.

If you're in a pinch, frozen mixed vegetables work wonderfully in this recipe. They save prep time and are ready to cook without thawing. Simply toss them in during the step for adding vegetables, and adjust the cooking time down to about three to four minutes to allow them to heat through without becoming mushy. This flexibility means you’ll always have a quick, nutritious meal ready to go, no matter what fresh produce you have on hand.

Serving and Storage Tips

Once your dish is simmered to perfection, serving it can be as straightforward or as creative as you desire. Serve it directly in the pan for a rustic presentation, or portion it out onto plates. For an extra layer of flavor, top it with shredded cheese, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream. Pair it with warm tortillas for a breakfast taco feast or bed it over rice for a hearty dinner staple. Plus, I love drizzling a little lime juice on top; it brightens up the flavors beautifully.

If you have leftovers, this one-pan meal stores exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to three days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags. When reheating, make sure to fully thaw in the refrigerator overnight for even heating; then, warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This way, you can always enjoy a comforting meal without starting from scratch.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to whip up your delicious ground beef one pan meal:

Ground Beef One Pan Meal Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all of these ingredients ready before you start cooking for the best experience!

Instructions

Here’s how to make your one pan ground beef meal in just a few steps:

Brown the Beef

In a large pan over medium heat, add olive oil and diced onions, cooking until translucent. Add minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain any excess grease.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped bell pepper and mixed vegetables. Cook for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.

Season and Simmer

Add diced tomatoes, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then cover and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Enjoy your delicious and hassle-free one pan meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try using fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley as a garnish. You can also add different spices according to your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredient Substitutions

If ground beef isn’t your preference or you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken. These options are leaner, but you may want to add a little extra olive oil to keep the dish moist. Another alternative is plant-based ground meat, which offers a great bonus for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package as they usually require less cooking time than beef.

For the diced tomatoes, feel free to switch to crushed tomatoes or even tomato sauce for a different texture. If you desire a fresher taste, using fresh tomatoes diced into the same size as canned ones can work beautifully, although it will alter the cooking time slightly. Be mindful that fresh tomatoes might release more liquid, so adjust the simmering time to get to the right consistency.

Flavor Enhancements

To deepen the flavor of your one-pan meal, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce along with the vegetables; it adds a salty, umami kick that enhances the overall profile. If you enjoy herbs, fresh cilantro or parsley added just before serving can bring a lovely freshness. Alternatively, dried Italian herbs can be sprinkled in for a classic flavor twist, reminding you of hearty Italian dishes.

Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasonings as you go! Ingredients can vary in saltiness, so it’s a good idea to season gradually. Start with the recommended amounts of salt and pepper and increase them to suit your preference, especially after adding the tomatoes. Each of these enhancements allows for a unique experience with every preparation, making your meals exciting and varying each time.

Perfecting Cooking Times

Timing is key to creating a perfectly cooked one-pan dish. When browning the beef, you should aim for about 6-8 minutes, ensuring it is no longer pink. The vegetables should follow, cooked for roughly 5 minutes in tandem until they lose their crunch but maintain their vibrant color. Lastly, the simmering step is crucial; allow it to simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. This not only melds the flavors but also reduces any excess liquid, creating a wonderfully thick and satisfying texture.

In terms of troubleshooting, if your mixture turns out too watery after simmering, you can increase the heat slightly to help evaporate some of the liquid. Cooking it uncovered during the last few minutes will allow for a perfectly thick consistency, enhancing the dish's overall mouthfeel. Adjusting heat levels and monitoring the dish as it progresses will help you achieve the perfect outcome every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and will work perfectly with the same seasonings.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the beef while cooking.

→ What other vegetables can I include?

Feel free to add zucchini, corn, or even leafy greens like spinach.

→ Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook and store it in the fridge for up to three days, simply reheat when ready to serve.