Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner

Name: Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up with this hearty and comforting ground beef skillet dinner, perfect for busy evenings.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2025-12-25T15:34:14.813Z

This Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef with fresh vegetables and a medley of spices. It's a one-pan meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight meals.
Packed with flavor from fresh vegetables and spices.
One-pan meal means less cleanup after dinner.

      

A Hearty Meal for Any Night

When the weather gets chilly or you're simply in need of a comforting meal, this Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner is your go-to solution. The combination of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and spices creates a dish that is not only filling but also bursting with flavor. It’s a great way to warm up after a long day, and the one-pan preparation makes it easy to whip up on even the busiest nights.

This cozy dinner is versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences and what you have on hand. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or add beans for an extra protein boost. The recipe encourages creativity in the kitchen, allowing you to make it your own while still enjoying the heartiness that everyone loves.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking for a meal that can be easily reheated, this ground beef skillet dinner is perfect for meal prepping. It holds up well in the refrigerator for several days, making it a great choice for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Simply portion it out into containers, and you’ll have a homemade meal ready to go whenever hunger strikes.

Additionally, you can double the recipe to ensure you have plenty of leftovers. This not only saves time but also helps minimize food waste, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious families. Enjoy the satisfaction of having a delicious home-cooked meal at your fingertips, ready to be enjoyed any time.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner, consider serving it with a side salad or some crusty bread. The freshness of a salad can balance the richness of the dish, while bread can be perfect for scooping up every last bit. You might also enjoy this meal with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

If you’re feeling adventurous, pair it with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea. These beverages complement the savory flavors of the dish and enhance the overall dining experience, making it not just a meal, but a delightful occasion.

Ingredients

For the Skillet Dinner

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand!

Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the diced tomatoes, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.

Combine with Rice

Add the cooked rice to the skillet and mix well. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top and cover the skillet until melted.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve your cozy dinner hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

This dish is great for leftovers and can be easily reheated!

Customize Your Dish

One of the best things about this ground beef skillet dinner is its adaptability. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For a milder version, you can reduce or omit the chili powder. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to cater to the tastes and dietary needs of your family.

Vegetarians can also enjoy a similar dish by substituting the ground beef with plant-based alternatives or even legumes like black beans or lentils. This simple switch can transform the meal while keeping the essence of the dish intact, proving that everyone can enjoy a cozy dinner.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftovers, ensure the dish is cooled to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal even on the busiest days without compromising on taste or quality.

When reheating, it's best to warm it up on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent the meal from drying out. With these tips, you can savor this cozy dinner multiple times without losing its delicious flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This Ground Beef Skillet Cozy Dinner isn’t just tasty; it also packs a nutritional punch. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair, while the addition of vegetables provides vitamins and minerals that are crucial for overall health. Corn and tomatoes contribute fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel full longer.

Moreover, spices like cumin and chili powder not only enhance flavor but also offer health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties. By including this hearty meal in your weekly rotation, you can enjoy a delicious dinner that nourishes both body and soul.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the skillet while cooking.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this skillet dinner?

It's delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or crusty bread.