Ground Beef Skillet With Vegetables

Name: Ground Beef Skillet With Vegetables
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup diced zucchini; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Bites

I love making this Ground Beef Skillet with Vegetables when I want a quick, satisfying meal that packs flavor and nutrition. The combination of juicy ground beef with colorful, crisp vegetables always makes my kitchen smell amazing. Plus, everything cooks in one pan, which means less cleanup for me—a huge bonus on busy weeknights! This dish is versatile too; you can easily swap in whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a great go-to recipe for using up leftovers.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:55:00.209Z

When I first tried making this Ground Beef Skillet, I was skeptical about how flavorful it could be given its simplicity. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how the spices and vegetables complemented the beef perfectly, creating a dish that was both hearty and wholesome. I like to use fresh herbs to elevate the flavors even further.

One tip I’ve learned over time is to sauté the vegetables before adding the beef, allowing them to caramelize slightly. This step adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish, making it stand out. Serve it with rice or potatoes for a complete meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Effortlessly combines protein and vegetables in one dish
Quick prep and cook time, perfect for busy nights
Customizable with whatever veggies you have on hand

Getting the Most Out of Your Vegetables

When making this Ground Beef Skillet, the vegetables play a crucial role not just in flavor, but also in texture. Bell peppers and zucchini add a slight crunch and vibrant colors that make the dish visually appealing. For maximum flavor, be sure to sauté them until they are just tender, which usually takes about 5 minutes. If you prefer a softer texture, feel free to cook them a minute or two longer, but keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

You can easily switch up the vegetables to suit your palate or what you have on hand. For instance, mushrooms, carrots, or broccoli can add different textures and flavors. Just keep in mind that denser vegetables like carrots will require a longer cooking time, so add them to the skillet alongside the onions to ensure they soften nicely by the time you add the beef.

Mastering the Beef Cooking Technique

For the ground beef, using medium-high heat is essential to ensure it browns nicely and develops that delicious savory flavor. As you add the beef to the skillet, break it apart with a spatula to encourage even browning and prevent it from clumping. It usually takes about 5-7 minutes for the meat to cook through, but you should aim for an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it's safe to eat.

If you find that your beef is releasing too much fat during cooking, don't hesitate to drain some of it off. This will help prevent the dish from becoming greasy, allowing the flavors of the vegetables and spices to shine through. Remember, the goal is to have a rich, balanced dish where the natural flavors meld together harmoniously.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Once you’ve finished cooking, serve the Ground Beef Skillet as is, or over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. You can also top it with some shredded cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra freshness. For a spicy kick, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.

If you're planning to meal prep, this skillet dish holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the skillet to keep the beef moist. You can also freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months; just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Ground Beef Skillet

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup diced zucchini
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Feel free to add or substitute any of your favorite vegetables!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until soft, about 2-3 minutes. Then stir in the bell peppers and zucchini, cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until they begin to soften.

Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Finish with Tomatoes and Seasoning

Stir in the cherry tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes are warmed through. Serve immediately.

This dish can be served as is or over rice for an added touch!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the vegetables. Also, consider using ground turkey for a leaner option.

Ingredient Highlights

Ground beef is not only a great source of protein but also imparts a savory depth that complements the sweetness of the vegetables. Using lean ground beef can help reduce extra fat, making this dish a bit lighter while still keeping it satisfying. If you prefer, you can also substitute it with ground turkey or chicken, which will yield a milder flavor and slightly different texture.

The cherry tomatoes contribute a burst of freshness and juiciness to the dish. As they soften, they create a wonderful sauce that binds everything together. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, you could use diced canned tomatoes instead; just remember to adjust the seasoning since they can be more acidic.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing this dish is easy—just let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It should be good in the fridge for up to three days. If you plan to freeze it, I recommend separating portions into smaller containers, as this makes reheating easier and helps prevent waste.

When reheating on the stove, use low to medium heat and stir occasionally to ensure even warming. You can add a splash of water, broth, or even a touch of olive oil to help refresh the dish, especially if it seems dry after being in the fridge or freezer.

Common Troubleshooting

If your beef isn't browning well, your skillet may be too crowded. Make sure to spread the beef out evenly and resist the urge to stir it too often. Allowing it to sear for a couple of minutes before thinking of flipping will create a nice crust and enhance the overall flavor.

In case your vegetables are turning mushy, try to keep a close eye during the sautéing process. Once they become golden and glossy, you can add the beef. In the future, try cutting them into larger pieces to maintain some bite, and add them to the skillet in stages, based on their cooking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well too. Just add them when sautéing the onions and garlic, and cook until heated through.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils can be excellent substitutes for a vegetarian or leaner option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients a day in advance and store them separately. Just cook the dish when you're ready to eat.