Ground Beef One Pan Meals

Name: Ground Beef One Pan Meals
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 2 cups spinach, chopped; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 tsp oregano; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making one pan meals, especially when it involves ground beef. Not only is it a versatile protein, but it soaks up every bit of flavor from the spices and vegetables I add. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze! In just a single pan, I can create a delicious and hearty meal that my whole family enjoys. It’s my go-to solution for busy weeknights, and I always feel like a culinary hero when the aromas waft through the kitchen.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:37:16.167Z

When I first experimented with one pan meals, I was amazed at how everything melded together in unexpected ways. Each bite bursts with flavor, and I appreciate how quick it is to throw everything together. I typically use ground beef because it cooks quickly and adds a satisfying richness that elevates the dish.

One of my secrets is to let the beef brown nicely before adding any liquid. This caramelization brings out a depth of flavor that infuses the entire meal. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy cleanup with just one pan needed
Versatile ground beef that pairs with almost any ingredient
Deliciously comforting and hearty flavors in every bite

      

Perfecting the One-Pan Technique

Using a large skillet is crucial for this recipe, as it allows for even browning of the ground beef and proper sautéing of the vegetables. Opt for a non-stick skillet if you're looking to minimize sticking, especially when cooking the beef. Make sure to maintain a medium heat throughout the process, as too high of a temperature can cause the beef to toughen and the vegetables to burn.

When sautéing the onions and garlic, look for that perfect translucent state in the onions, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes. This step releases natural sugars, adding a subtle sweetness to the dish. If the heat is too high, the garlic can burn, resulting in a bitter flavor, so keep an eye on it. Stir occasionally to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Ingredient Highlights

Ground beef is not just the star; it's the binding factor that brings together all the flavors. I prefer using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner ground beef options can be used, but they might result in a drier dish. Each ingredient plays a specific role in blending flavors; for example, the bell pepper adds a crunchy texture, while spinach provides both nutrients and a vibrant color that's visually appealing.

Diced tomatoes in the can bring acidity and moisture to the dish, making it less likely to dry out during cooking. If you prefer a bit more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños to the mix! For variations, monster mushrooms or black beans can serve as excellent substitutes for a vegetarian option, while keeping the essence of the one-pan meal intact.

Ingredients

For the Main Dish

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cups spinach, chopped
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked rice or quinoa

Optional Toppings

Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated cheese

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Incorporate Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the diced bell pepper, spinach, diced tomatoes, oregano, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper. Allow to simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve over cooked rice or quinoa. Enjoy your delicious, one-pan beef meal!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand — zucchini or carrots make great additions!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This one-pan ground beef meal is excellent for meal prep! You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just remember to cook the beef and vegetables just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor. If you like, you can also cook the meal entirely and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days, and simply reheat them over medium heat on the stove.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Make sure the meal is cooled completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water to avoid drying out.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty dish pairs perfectly with not just rice or quinoa, but also with tortillas for making delicious wraps! You can serve it in lettuce cups for a fresh touch, making it great for a low-carb option. For a side, consider adding a simple garden salad or some roasted vegetables to complement the meal without overshadowing its flavors.

To elevate the presentation, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top. A squeeze of lime can enhance the dish, providing a zesty finish. If you want to spice it up, consider topping with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese right before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead?

Yes, ground turkey works well and is a bit leaner than beef.

→ What can I do with leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a kick!

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free grains for serving, it's completely gluten-free.