One-Pan Ground Beef Skillet 🤌🏽

You guys, I'm so excited to share my absolute favorite go-to recipe for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious and fuss-free! This one-pan ground beef skillet is a total game-changer. Seriously, it's become a staple in my rotation, and my family just devours it every single time. If you're looking for an easy dinner that comes together in a flash, you've found it! The best part? It all cooks in one pan, which means less cleanup – and who doesn't love that? I often use my trusty cast iron skillet (like a Lodge one, if you have it!), as it gets that perfect sear, but any large skillet will do the trick. First things first, let's talk about browning ground beef. This is key for flavor! I start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in my skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's shimmering, I add about a pound of lean ground beef. Don't overcrowd the pan; if you're making a larger batch, you might want to brown it in two batches. Break up the beef with a spoon or spatula, letting it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get a nice crust. Then, stir and continue cooking until it's fully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat – this step is important for a lighter, less greasy meal. Once your ground beef is beautifully browned, the magic really begins. I like to add some chopped onion and minced garlic right into the skillet with the beef and sauté them until fragrant and tender, usually about 3-5 minutes. This builds such a wonderful aromatic base for the whole dish. Now, for the rest of the ingredients! This is where you can really customize it. For a simple, hearty meal, I’ll often throw in some diced potatoes (small cubes cook faster!) and maybe some frozen mixed vegetables like corn and peas. Add about a cup of beef broth or water, a can of diced tomatoes (undrained), and seasonings like salt, pepper, paprika, and a touch of Italian herbs. Give everything a good stir, bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it all cook together. The cooking time will depend on your potatoes. I usually let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. If you want to thicken the sauce a bit, you can uncover it for the last few minutes of cooking. Before serving, I sometimes stir in a handful of fresh spinach to wilt, or sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top – because cheese makes everything better, right? This one-pan ground beef skillet is incredibly versatile. You could add bell peppers, zucchini, or even a can of black beans for extra protein and fiber. It’s truly a lifesaver for busy weeknights and makes fantastic leftovers for lunch the next day. Trust me, once you try this simple, delicious recipe, it’ll be on your regular menu too!