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Cozy Ground Beef Skillet Recipe Easy and Perfect for Feeding 6 People

cozy ground beef skillet recipe - featured image

A quick and easy ground beef skillet recipe that feeds 6 people, combining seasoned beef, sautéed veggies, and melty cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20, grass-fed preferred)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium bell peppers, diced (red or green)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) canned diced tomatoes (fire-roasted optional)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese (about 170g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Warm for about 1 minute until shimmering but not smoking.
  2. Add diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly caramelized.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Push the veggies to the side and add ground beef in an even layer. Let cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes to brown, then break up and cook until no pink remains, about 4 more minutes.
  5. Drain excess fat if necessary, leaving enough fat for flavor.
  6. Mix in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  7. Pour in canned diced tomatoes with juices and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
  8. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until sauce thickens slightly.
  9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover with lid or foil and let melt for 3-5 minutes.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Notes

If sauce is too thick during simmering, add a splash more broth or water. If too thin, remove lid and let reduce longer. Do not rush browning the beef to develop a caramelized crust. Season as you go and taste before final seasoning. Melting cheese under a lid creates perfect gooey texture. Can substitute ground turkey or chicken but flavor will differ. For low-carb, serve over cauliflower rice or sautéed greens.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef skillet, easy dinner, family meal, quick recipe, comfort food, one pan meal, weeknight dinner