Ground Beef And Veggie Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Veggie Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups spinach; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Inspiration

I love making this Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet for dinner because it’s quick, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. The combination of beef and fresh vegetables makes it such a satisfying meal that is on the table in no time. Whenever I am short on time but still want to prepare something delicious from scratch, I turn to this recipe. It’s versatile too, allowing me to use whatever veggies I have on hand, making it a go-to weeknight dinner that delights everyone at the table.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-10T23:17:36.781Z

When I first made this Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet, I wanted a one-pan dish that wouldn’t take all evening to prepare. I quickly learned that it not only saved me time but also allowed for a lot of flexibility with ingredients. Using fresh vegetables gives it a nice crunch and flavor that complements the beef beautifully.

Another great tip I’ve discovered is to experiment with spices. The right blend can elevate this dish significantly, so don't be afraid to venture beyond salt and pepper. I often use paprika and Italian herbs for an extra depth of flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare on busy weeknights.
Packed with healthy veggies and protein-rich beef.
Adaptable with your favorite vegetables and spices.

Choosing the Right Ground Beef

Selecting the right type of ground beef can significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your skillet dish. For a leaner option, choose ground beef that is 85% lean or higher. This prevents excess grease in your dish and helps to maintain a nice texture. If you prefer a richer taste, opt for 80/20 ground beef, but be prepared to drain some fat after cooking to keep the dish balanced and not overly oily.

Don't hesitate to experiment with other types of ground meat like turkey, chicken, or lamb; these can provide different flavors and textures. Adjust the cooking time slightly—poultry cooks faster and may need only about 4-5 minutes to brown. Mixing in a lean ground meat with some higher-fat beef can also strike a lovely balance, making this meal adaptable to various dietary preferences.

Vegetable Variations

While bell peppers and zucchini are staples, feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices. Vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or even eggplant can work well in this skillet. Just remember to chop them into small, uniform pieces so they cook evenly and quickly. If you're using heartier vegetables like carrots or potatoes, consider pre-cooking them to ensure they're tender by the time you add them to the skillet.

You can also play with the spices to match your selected vegetables. For instance, if you're using more earthy veggies like mushrooms, a sprinkle of smoked paprika can elevate the flavor. I often add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost when I switch up the vegetables—this adds depth and rounds out the dish beautifully.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container to maintain its freshness. For long-term storage, you can freeze the dish; just keep in mind that the texture of the vegetables might change slightly upon reheating, especially for leafy greens like spinach.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to bring moisture back into the dish and prevent it from drying out. This ensures every bite is as delicious as the first time around. Microwaving is also an option, but make sure to stir frequently for even heating. Enjoying this meal as a quick lunch or dinner option later in the week is a real time-saver!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups spinach
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Feel free to customize the vegetables according to your preference!

Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add the Vegetables

To the skillet with the beef, add the diced onion, bell pepper, zucchini, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Incorporate Spinach and Tomatoes

Stir in the spinach, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve warm. Enjoy your deliciously filling Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet!

Top with grated cheese or fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes while cooking the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. This not only adds texture but also helps soak up the delicious juices from the dish. Additionally, topping it with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream can bring in an extra layer of flavor, especially if you enjoy a bit of creaminess.

For a complete meal, pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread, which can be perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce. I personally love serving it with a tangy vinaigrette salad that contrasts the savory flavors of the skillet, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Adjusting for Allergies or Preferences

If you're catering to specific dietary needs, this recipe is easily adjustable. For gluten-free options, simply ensure your diced tomatoes and any condiments used are labeled gluten-free. You can replace Italian seasoning with a custom blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme if you prefer to avoid preservatives found in some seasoning mixes.

For dairy-free options, skip any cheese toppings or dairy-based sides. Additionally, if you're watching your carb intake, load up on more non-starchy vegetables and reduce the tomato content for a more keto-friendly version while still keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.

Seasoning Tips

Proper seasoning is key to elevating the flavors in your Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet. Beyond the Italian seasoning listed, think about adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat or smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. If you're looking for a more global twist, try integrating cumin or coriander for a hint of warmth that complements the beef perfectly.

Always taste as you go! Once the spinach is wilted and everything is combined, sample a small spoonful to ensure the seasoning is just right for your palate. You can adjust further at this point, which is essential for achieving a balanced flavor profile that's tailored to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can reduce the amount of beef and increase the quantity of vegetables or use lean ground beef.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and veggie mixture a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Serve it over rice or pasta, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.