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Cheesy beef macaroni skillet with elbow pasta and rich tomato meat sauce, close-up with spoon scooping a creamy, comforting serving

Quick & Easy Ground Beef Dinner: Speedy One-Pan Skillet

This comforting one-pan ground beef skillet combines savory beef, veggies, pasta or rice, and melted cheese for a quick, satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights and easy clean-up!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 bell peppers, chopped (any color)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup quick-cooking pasta or instant rice
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • salt and black pepper, to taste
  • fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro), for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • large skillet (10–12 inch) oven-safe if broiling cheese
  • cutting board and knife
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • spatula or wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it apart. Cook 5–7 minutes until browned.
  2. Drain excess grease if necessary. Add onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Stir in chopped bell peppers and cook another 3–5 minutes until slightly softened.
  4. Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  5. Bring to a simmer, then stir in pasta or rice. Ensure it’s submerged in liquid.
  6. Cover and reduce heat. Cook 10–15 minutes or until pasta/rice is tender and most liquid absorbed. Stir halfway through.
  7. Remove from heat. Sprinkle cheese over top and let melt, or broil for 1–2 minutes until bubbly.
  8. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

Use 80/20 ground beef for richer flavor or 90/10 for less grease. Swap in turkey or sausage, or try grains like couscous. Boost nutrition with veggies like zucchini, corn, or spinach. Customize the spice blend to match your flavor profile (Mexican, Italian, etc.).