Easy Ground Beef Recipe
This easy ground beef recipe is a one-pan, budget-friendly simple meal that comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for a family-friendly weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef 90/10 or 85/15; choose grass-fed for richer flavor
- 1 medium yellow onion diced (red onion works for a milder bite)
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper chopped (any color)
- 1 14.5-oz can diced tomatoes undrained (fire-roasted adds smoky depth)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder (swap for smoked paprika if you prefer mild warmth)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust after tasting
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings shredded cheddar, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, avocado
Instructions
- Heat your skillet on medium-high and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon, stirring until it’s no longer pink—about 5 minutes.
- Drain excess fat if you like it leaner, then return the skillet to the heat and drizzle in the olive oil.
- Add diced onion and bell pepper; sauté until onions turn translucent and peppers soften—around 4 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the spices toast for 30 seconds.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes so flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot topped with optional toppings.
Notes
Refrigerate leftover beef mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring between. Make-ahead tip: Cook, cool completely, and freeze flat in zip-top bags—thaw in the morning for a quick meal.
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