Ground-Beef Skillet Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade ground-beef skillet with this easy baking recipe! This one-pan wonder transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful, cheese-topped comfort dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners. Our foolproof method ensures perfectly seasoned beef every time.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

30 mins

Serves:

4 servings

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">500g ground beef (preferably 15% fat content)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 large onion, finely diced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 garlic cloves, minced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 red bell pepper, diced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 green bell pepper, diced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">200g mushrooms, sliced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">400g canned diced tomatoes</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp tomato paste</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp dried oregano</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp paprika</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp ground cumin</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">150g grated cheddar cheese</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp olive oil</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Salt and pepper to taste</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)</li></ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size:

🔥 Calories:

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Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">26cm (10-inch) cast iron skillet or oven-safe frying pan</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Wooden spoon</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/gas mark 6). This recipe finishes with a quick broil to melt the cheese, so having the oven ready is essential.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Place your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering but not smoking (this indicates it's at the perfect temperature), add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. This slow caramelization builds the first layer of flavor for your dish.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic as it can become bitter - this brief cooking releases the aromatic oils without burning them.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until no longer pink, stirring occasionally. The high sides of the skillet help contain any splatters while allowing the beef to brown evenly.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Once the beef is browned, drain excess fat if there's a significant amount (leaving about 1-2 tablespoons for flavor). Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Add the diced bell peppers and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the mushrooms release their moisture. This vegetable mixture adds texture and nutrition to your dish.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly. This brief cooking process helps develop the tomato paste's rich umami flavor by breaking down its natural sugars.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Add the canned diced tomatoes, dried oregano, paprika, and cumin. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the mixture cook for 10-12 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally. The liquid should reduce by about one-third, intensifying the flavors.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. The flavors should be well-developed with a balance of savory (beef), sweet (peppers), and earthy (mushrooms) notes.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 10</h4>Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. Place the skillet in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and beginning to bubble and brown at the edges.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 11</h4>Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven (remember the handle will be extremely hot). Let it rest for 5 minutes - this resting period allows the flavors to settle and the dish to cool to a safe eating temperature.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 12</h4>Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation. The skillet helps maintain the heat of the dish while serving.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Ground-Beef Skillet Recipe?

This hearty skillet uses ground beef, onions, garlic, bell peppers, mushrooms, canned tomatoes, tomato paste, spices (oregano, paprika, cumin), cheddar cheese, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional fresh parsley for garnish.

How to cook Ground-Beef Skillet Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook Ground-Beef Skillet Recipe by sautéing onions and garlic in a cast iron skillet, browning beef, adding vegetables and seasonings, simmering with tomatoes until thickened, then topping with cheese and finishing in the oven. This one-pan wonder creates a deliciously cheesy, comforting meal with minimal washing up.

Can I make this skillet dish ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture up to 2 days ahead. Store in an airtight container in the fridge, then reheat in your skillet and add the cheese topping just before serving. The flavours often develop and improve with time.

What sides pair best with a one-pan ground beef dish?

This versatile skillet pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a simple green salad, steamed rice, or roasted potatoes. For a lower-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice or a side of steamed vegetables. The rich sauce is perfect for dipping or soaking up with your sides.

How can I adapt this recipe for different dietary requirements?

For dairy-free diets, use dairy-free cheese or omit it entirely. For lower-carb needs, add more mushrooms and reduce tomatoes. Vegetarians can substitute plant-based mince. For gluten-free diets, ensure your tomato paste and canned tomatoes are certified gluten-free.

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