Ground Beef Skillet Smoky

Name: Ground Beef Skillet Smoky
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Ground Beef Skillet Smoky is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the taste of smoky spices right to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan meal is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2025-12-25T16:49:02.952Z

This dish combines tender ground beef with rich spices, creating a smoky flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a family favorite that requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for any night of the week.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick preparation and cooking time for busy evenings
Smoky flavor that elevates simple ground beef
One-pan meal means easy cleanup
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or spices

      

A Tasty Twist on Weeknight Dinners

Busy weeknights often leave little time for elaborate cooking, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor. This Ground Beef Skillet Smoky is designed for those who crave a delicious meal without the fuss. With its combination of smoky spices and tender beef, this dish transforms everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Your family will love the rich flavors, and you'll appreciate how quickly this meal comes together.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Utilizing just one skillet means you can whip up a satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes. This is a lifesaver for those evenings when you're juggling work, family, and everything in between. Plus, the vibrant colors of the bell peppers and tomatoes make the dish visually appealing, ensuring it’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Customizable for Every Taste

One of the best aspects of the Ground Beef Skillet Smoky is its versatility. Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Zucchini, corn, or even black beans can complement the dish beautifully while boosting its nutritional value. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

This recipe also adapts well to different dietary preferences. You can swap ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative to suit your needs. Regardless of the protein you choose, the smoky flavor profile will still shine through, ensuring a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef Skillet Smoky even further, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. These sides not only absorb the savory juices but also add an extra layer of comfort to the meal. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the smoky flavors.

Don’t forget about leftovers! This dish reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep. Pack it in individual containers for a quick lunch option that will keep you satisfied throughout the day. With its robust flavors, it’s sure to be a hit even the second time around!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup bell peppers, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your taste!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.

Add Vegetables and Spices

Stir in the bell peppers, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serve

Once everything is cooked through, remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy your smoky ground beef skillet!

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing your Ground Beef Skillet Smoky is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go for busy days ahead. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish, where it can last for up to three months.

When it’s time to reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If you find it’s dried out a bit, add a splash of broth or water while reheating to restore its moisture. This way, you’ll enjoy every bite just as much as when it was freshly made.

Nutritional Benefits of Ground Beef

Ground beef is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that can benefit your health. It is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Additionally, ground beef provides important vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are crucial for energy production and overall well-being.

Choosing lean ground beef can help you reduce saturated fat intake while still enjoying the rich flavors of this dish. Always look for grass-fed options when possible, as they tend to be higher in omega-3 fatty acids and lower in unhealthy fats, making this meal even more nutritious.

Enhancing Flavor with Spices

The key to achieving that signature smoky flavor in this dish is the use of smoked paprika. This spice adds depth and warmth without overwhelming the palate. If you want to explore different flavor profiles, try experimenting with other spices like chipotle powder for a spicier kick or Italian herbs for a more Mediterranean twist.

Incorporating spices not only enhances taste but also adds health benefits. Many spices, including cumin and paprika, are known for their antioxidant properties. They can contribute to better digestion and overall health. So, don’t hesitate to get creative with the spices to make this dish truly your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! Freeze the cooked skillet in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even a simple salad.