Get ready to experience the culinary magic that unfolds in a single skillet—the Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet. This hearty and flavorful dish combines the rich, savory taste of ground beef with the vibrant sweetness of bell peppers, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying. Join us on this gastronomic journey as we explore the art of one-pan cooking, where simplicity meets deliciousness. From the sizzle of the beef to the colorful medley of peppers, this recipe promises to be a staple in your weeknight dinner repertoire.
This Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet recipe has been a weeknight savior in our family for years. Originating from my grandmother, who believed in the power of a hearty and quick meal, it’s been a go-to for busy evenings. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a reminder of cozy family dinners and the warmth of home-cooked meals.
Shopping List
- Ground beef
- Bell peppers (varied colors)
- Onion
- Garlic
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Your choice of spices (e.g., paprika, cumin)
Ingredients:
For the Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
For the Peppers Medley:
- 2 bell peppers (assorted colors), thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Searing Prelude: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Aromatic Assembly: Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Spice Infusion Waltz: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, and dried oregano over the beef mixture. Stir well to ensure the spices coat the beef evenly.
- Tomato Tango: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir the mixture thoroughly and let it simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Pepper Symphony: In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add thinly sliced bell peppers, seasoning with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Sauté until the peppers are tender yet still vibrant in color.
- Harmonious Union: Combine the sautéed bell peppers with the simmering ground beef mixture, stirring gently to incorporate the flavors.
- Simmer and Infuse: Let the entire skillet simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the peppers to absorb the savory goodness of the beef mixture.
- Garnish and Serve Crescendo: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over the skillet and add a generous layer of shredded cheese. Cover the skillet for a few minutes until the cheese melts. Serve the dish hot, with an optional dollop of sour cream.
Cook’s Notes:
- Beef Quality Matters: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat in the dish.
- Spice Adjustments: Tailor the spice levels to your preference by adjusting the chili powder and black pepper quantities.
Variations:
- Tex-Mex Fiesta: Enhance the dish with a Tex-Mex twist by adding corn, black beans, and a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Mushroom Melody: Introduce sliced mushrooms during the sautéing stage for an earthy flavor and added texture.
- Guacamole Garnish: Top each serving with a dollop of homemade guacamole for a creamy and refreshing contrast.
Keto Version:
- Vegetable Choices: Replace higher-carb vegetables like tomatoes with lower-carb options such as cherry tomatoes or reduce their quantity.
- Thickening Agent: Use xanthan gum or a keto-friendly thickening agent instead of flour to maintain a keto-friendly consistency.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduced Tomato Content: Decrease the amount of diced tomatoes or opt for cherry tomatoes to reduce the carb content.
- Carb-Conscious Substitutes: Replace tomato sauce with a lower-carb alternative like tomato paste diluted with water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use different types of meat? Yes, turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives.
- How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Substitute ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative.
- Can this be made ahead and frozen? Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 3 months.
As you savor the delightful blend of seasoned ground beef and vibrant bell peppers, revel in the simplicity and heartiness of this one-pan wonder. Whether you embrace the classic version or experiment with keto or low-carb adaptations, the Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet is a testament to the joy of uncomplicated cooking that delivers maximum flavor. May your kitchen continue to be a place of culinary exploration, and may each bite of this skillet masterpiece bring you comfort and satisfaction. Enjoy the sizzling perfection!
