Ground Beef Skillet Budget Friendly

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Ground Beef Skillet is a quick, budget-friendly meal that the whole family will love. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it's perfect for busy weeknights.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-25T18:22:12.113Z

This Ground Beef Skillet is a delightful dish that combines hearty ground beef with fresh vegetables and spices, all cooked in one pan to save you time on cleanup. It's a staple in many households for good reason!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make in just one skillet
  • Incredibly budget-friendly and satisfying
  • Packed with protein and vegetables for a balanced meal

A Quick and Nutritious Dinner

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome dinner can be challenging. This Ground Beef Skillet recipe makes it easier than ever to enjoy a nutritious meal without the fuss. The combination of ground beef and colorful vegetables provides a balanced mix of protein, vitamins, and minerals. With just one skillet to clean, you can spend more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones instead of worrying about the dishes.

The use of canned diced tomatoes and frozen mixed vegetables not only adds convenience but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish. These ingredients ensure that you can create a delicious, hearty meal even on the busiest weeknights. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can easily customize it based on what you have in your pantry or your family's preferences.

Budget-Friendly Cooking

Eating well shouldn't break the bank, and this Ground Beef Skillet recipe is a testament to that. Ground beef is an affordable source of protein that can feed the whole family without stretching your budget. By incorporating seasonal vegetables or pantry staples, you can further reduce costs while still enjoying a flavorful meal.

Moreover, this dish is perfect for meal prepping. Make a larger batch and store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer for quick meals throughout the week. This not only saves money but also helps you avoid the temptation of takeout when time is tight.

Flavor Variations and Tips

While this recipe is delicious as is, you can easily switch it up to suit your taste. Try adding different spices such as cumin or paprika for a unique twist. For those who enjoy heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños will give your skillet an extra kick. Don't hesitate to experiment with various vegetables, like zucchini or corn, to keep things exciting!

Another great tip is to serve this dish over a bed of cooked rice or noodles for a more filling meal. You can also top it with shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream to elevate the flavors even further. The possibilities are endless with this adaptable recipe!

Ingredients

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking

Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables!

Instructions

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the bell pepper, canned tomatoes, and frozen mixed vegetables. Season with chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy your budget-friendly meal!

Serve this skillet dish over rice or pasta for a heartier meal.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers from this Ground Beef Skillet, you're in luck! Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple: just toss it back in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quick meal. This dish also freezes well, so consider doubling the recipe and saving half for a busy day.

To freeze, let the skillet cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Label it with the date, and it will remain good for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above for a convenient, home-cooked meal.

Perfect Pairings

This Ground Beef Skillet pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet. Alternatively, serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices and add some texture to your meal.

For a complete dinner experience, consider pairing it with a glass of red wine or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon. These beverages complement the flavors of the dish beautifully while keeping your meal light and enjoyable.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner option.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this skillet dish?

This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or a simple side salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Ground Beef Skillet Budget Friendly

This Ground Beef Skillet is a quick, budget-friendly meal that the whole family will love. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it's perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 1 pound ground beef
  2. 1 onion, chopped
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 bell pepper, chopped
  5. 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
  6. 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
  7. 2 teaspoons chili powder
  8. Salt and pepper to taste
  9. Olive oil for cooking

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.

Step 02

Stir in the bell pepper, canned tomatoes, and frozen mixed vegetables. Season with chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 03

Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy your budget-friendly meal!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 30g