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, diced; 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love creating meals that are not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. Ground beef one pan meals have become my go-to solution for busy weeknights when I want to whip up something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just one pan to clean afterward, these meals minimize the hassle while maximizing flavor. Each recipe features a balance of delicious spices and vegetables, making it a delightful way to bring the family together at the dinner table.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:52:13.000Z

In making my first ground beef one pan meal, I was amazed at how all the flavors blended so beautifully. I opted for a combination of bell peppers and spices, creating a colorful and vibrant dish that was irresistibly fragrant. The one pan method ensured that everything cooked evenly and quickly, with minimal fuss.

Beyond convenience, I discovered that using high-quality ground beef really makes a difference in taste and texture. My secret tip? Don't rush the browning process; letting the meat get that perfect caramelization elevates the entire meal. Trust me, it's worth the few extra minutes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
One pan means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Versatile; you can customize with your favorite vegetables and spices.

      

The Importance of Spice in Ground Beef Dishes

Spices play a crucial role in elevating the flavor profile of ground beef dishes. In this recipe, paprika adds a subtle smokiness, while cumin introduces warmth and depth. These spices complement the savory taste of the beef and enhance the overall dish. If you're a fan of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. When blending spices, taste as you go, ensuring they harmonize without overpowering the natural flavors of the other ingredients.

Adjusting the spice levels to personal preference is key to making this dish truly your own. If you’re cooking for kids or those who might be sensitive to spices, you can reduce or omit the paprika and cumin. Conversely, if you enjoy more complex flavors, consider adding dried herbs like oregano or thyme. Spices not only contribute taste but also aroma; as they cook, they create a comforting and inviting environment in your kitchen.

Maximizing Texture with Vegetables

Incorporating vegetables such as bell peppers and leafy greens is essential for adding both texture and nutrition to this one pan meal. As the vegetables sauté with the beef, they soften and release their natural sweetness, balancing the savory flavors. I recommend dicing the bell pepper into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. You want them tender but still slightly crisp to provide that delightful contrast in texture with the ground beef.

If you’re looking for variations, swapping out spinach for other hearty greens like Swiss chard or collard greens works wonderfully. Make sure to add these greens in the last five minutes of cooking so they wilt but retain their texture. Overcooked greens can turn mushy, which detracts from the overall dish. Experimenting with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms can also add new flavors and nutritional benefits to your one pan meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This ground beef one pan meal is not only satisfying fresh but also great for meal prep. You can prepare a big batch on the weekend and store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container, preserving the flavors and textures. Reheating can be simply done in the microwave, but I find that warming it in a skillet over medium heat helps restore some of the original texture.

For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to three months. Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers and label them with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as previously mentioned. This makes it an excellent option for a quick weekday dinner, ensuring you always have a homemade meal on hand that tastes like it was just cooked.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you begin to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients for Ground Beef One Pan Meals

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cups spinach or kale, chopped
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Once you have all your ingredients measured and ready, you can start cooking.

Instructions

Prepare your workspace by ensuring you have a sturdy pan and all your ingredients at hand.

Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes until they are soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Incorporate Other Ingredients

Add the can of diced tomatoes (with juice), cooked rice (or quinoa), spinach or kale, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients well.

Simmer

Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together.

Ensure that the dish is well mixed and heated before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or add beans for extra protein and fiber! You can also top the dish with shredded cheese just before serving for an added richness.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this ground beef meal over a bed of fresh greens or with a dollop of sour cream can add a refreshing contrast to the dish. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving not only enhances the visual appeal but also offers a burst of fresh flavor that brightens the entire meal. You can also pair it with warm, crusty bread or tortillas for a fulfilling dinner that takes you from the kitchen to the table effortlessly.

For those looking to add a bit more acidity, a side of pickled vegetables or a squeeze of fresh lime can complement the flavors beautifully. This also makes a great filling for tacos, so feel free to get creative with how you serve this dish. The more you mix and match, the more diverse your meals become!

Ingredient Substitutions

One of the beauties of this recipe is its versatility. If ground beef isn't your preferred protein, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Vegetarian alternatives like lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP) can make this a hearty dish without meat. Just ensure that you adjust the cooking times accordingly, as these substitutes may require different approaches regarding moisture and seasoning.

Ingredients like rice can also be swapped out for quinoa or couscous, offering a different texture and flavor. If you're working with dietary restrictions, consider using cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Each of these substitutions can bring new life into the dish while keeping it aligned with your dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen ground beef?

Yes, just ensure to fully thaw it before cooking for even browning.

→ What other vegetables work well in this recipe?

Zucchini, mushrooms, or corn are great options to add for variation.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix for an extra kick.