Easy Ground Beef Recipe: Flavorful Skillet Dinner

Looking for satisfying Ground Beef Skillet Recipes that are quick, easy, and packed with flavor? This Quick and Easy Southwest Ground Beef Skillet checks all those boxes. Bursting with Tex-Mex flavors, this dish combines seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and colorful bell peppers into a vibrant, hearty meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan recipe offers a balance of protein, vegetables, and spices in every bite. It’s easy to customize too—add your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro to make it your own. Whether you serve it with tortillas, over rice, or even as a taco filling, this dish will be a go-to for any family meal. If you’re exploring ground beef skillet recipes, this one’s a winner for both flavor and convenience!

Overhead view of a Southwest ground beef skillet with black beans, corn, bell peppers, and rice, garnished with lime wedges in a black bowl on a dark napkin. Perfect for a hearty, easy weeknight meal.
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Prep Time Cook time Total Time
15 mins
1 hr
1hr 15 mins
Servings
6

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For Spices:

  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Steps to Make Quick and Easy Southwest Ground Beef Skillet Recipe

  • Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and chop vegetables for easy cooking.

  • Cook Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

  • Add Vegetables: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until onions are translucent.

  • Add Bell Peppers and Spices: Add green and red bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes until peppers start to soften.

  • Mix in Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes: Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the juice). Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

  • Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat. Serve hot and garnish with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

Close-up of a Southwest ground beef skillet with black beans, corn, green bell peppers, and rice in a black bowl. A colorful, hearty dish, perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Skillet Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup required.
  • Flavorful and Versatile: A tasty blend of spices with customizable toppings to fit any taste preference.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Ground Beef: Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • Bell Peppers: Feel free to use any color of bell peppers or add jalapeños for extra spice.
  • Black Beans: Pinto beans or kidney beans can be used if preferred.

Expert Tips for Success

  • Drain the beef after browning for a leaner dish.
  • Season to taste: Add more chili powder or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier skillet.
  • Adjust cook time if using fresh corn instead of canned or frozen.
Southwest ground beef skillet in a black bowl with black beans, corn, green bell peppers, and rice, served with a side of tortilla chips and spices. A vibrant, flavorful one-pan meal ideal for family dinners

Variations and Customizations

  • Add rice for a heartier meal.
  • Make it cheesy by stirring in a handful of shredded cheese at the end.
  • Use as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side of warm tortillas, over a bed of rice, or as a filling for tacos. Pair with a simple green salad or avocado slices for a balanced meal.

Nutritional Facts (Per SERVING)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 6g

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I freeze this dish? Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Can I make it spicier? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

This Quick and Easy Southwest Ground Beef Skillet Recipe is one of the best ground beef skillet recipes you’ll find for a fast, flavorful meal that’s easy to make. Try it tonight and let us know how you enjoyed it!

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