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 medium onion, diced; 2 bell peppers, chopped; 1 cup zucchini, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup beef broth

Highlighted under: Simple Homestyle Cooking

I love making this Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet for a quick, hearty dinner that packs a punch of flavor. With just one pan, the cleanup is a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I typically use whatever vegetables I have on hand, which not only saves time but helps me reduce waste, too. The combination of savory beef with fresh, colorful veggies creates a satisfying meal that my family devours every time. Plus, it's versatile enough to tweak based on my cravings or what's in season!

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-02-10T23:27:36.194Z

When I first developed this Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet recipe, I was looking for a way to make family dinners quicker without sacrificing flavor. I discovered that browning the beef with onions first creates a rich base, allowing the vegetables to absorb all those delicious flavors. We tried different veggie combinations, and I found that bell peppers and zucchini work especially well, adding both crunch and moisture.

One key tip I learned is to chop the veggies evenly. This ensures that they cook at the same rate, which means no mushy pieces in the mix. Cooking everything in one skillet not only keeps the preparation and cleanup simple, but it also means the dish gets a fantastic depth of flavor, as everything melds together beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pan meal makes cleanup a breeze
Packed with flavor and nutrition
Customizable with any veggies you have on hand

Flavor-Focused Cooking

The blend of Italian seasoning is crucial in this Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet; it infuses the dish with a warm, herbaceous flavor profile that complements the savory beef. If you're looking for a twist, try substituting this with a mix of smoked paprika and chili flakes for a slightly spicy kick. This can elevate not just the taste, but the aroma as well, making your kitchen feel earthy and inviting while cooking.

Using fresh, in-season vegetables ensures not only better flavor but also enhanced nutritional value. For instance, consider incorporating seasonal greens like spinach or kale as a finishing touch. Simply stir them in during the last couple of minutes of simmering. They wilt beautifully and add a vibrant color while boosting the dish's vitamins and minerals.

Cooking Technique Essentials

When browning the beef and onions, it's important to provide enough space in the skillet to achieve a proper sear. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning. If using a smaller pan, consider browning the beef in batches, as this ensures that the meat caramelizes evenly, creating a depth of flavor that's foundational to this dish.

Pay attention during the simmering stage; the broth should be bubbling gently, not boiling vigorously. A strong boil can cause the vegetables to break down too much, leading to a mushy texture. You want them tender with a slight bite—perfectly cooked but still retaining some of their color and shape.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 bell peppers, chopped
1 cup zucchini, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup beef broth

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet:

Brown the beef and onion

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil, then the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

Add vegetables

Stir in the chopped bell peppers, zucchini, and minced garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the veggies are slightly softened.

Season and simmer

Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth, bring it to a simmer, and let it cook for an additional 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Your delicious Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet is ready to be served!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving. You can also top it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Veggie Skillet is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can make a larger batch and store it in airtight containers once it cools completely. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just remember to let it cool down before sealing, as this prevents condensation that can make it soggy.

For long-term storage, consider freezing portions of the skillet. It freezes well for up to three months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it in a skillet over medium heat. Adding a splash of beef broth or a bit of water can help regain some moisture and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This dish stands alone beautifully but can also be served over a bed of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. The grains will absorb any extra juices, enhancing the overall flavor. Alternatively, you could serve it in taco shells for a fun twist, allowing everyone to create their own personalized tacos with the ground beef mixture and fresh toppings.

For a fresh side, consider a simple green salad with a vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will balance the rich, hearty flavors of the skillet, creating a well-rounded meal. Fresh herbs sprinkled on top—like parsley or basil—just before serving can enhance both the presentation and the taste, making the dish even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add carrots, spinach, or broccoli based on your preference or what you have on hand.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well! Just store in an airtight container and reheat when needed.