Ground Beef Skillet Budget Friendly

Name: Ground Beef Skillet Budget Friendly
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 cup bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice or pasta (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Ground Beef Skillet is a budget-friendly meal that is simple to prepare and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2025-12-25T17:43:09.743Z

This Ground Beef Skillet is not only budget-friendly but also a time-saver! Made with simple ingredients, it can be on your table in just 30 minutes. It's a great way to feed the family without breaking the bank.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy meal preparation
Versatile ingredients that can be customized
Deliciously satisfying and hearty

      

A Quick and Nutritious Dinner

Finding time to prepare a nutritious meal on busy weeknights can be a challenge, but this Ground Beef Skillet is here to save the day. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. The combination of ground beef and fresh vegetables ensures that you're not just filling your stomach but also nourishing your body.

This recipe is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or your family's preferences. Whether you want to add more greens or switch to different beans, this dish allows for plenty of creative variations.

Budget-Friendly Meal Solutions

In today’s economy, meals that are both delicious and budget-friendly are more important than ever. Ground beef is a cost-effective protein that can stretch far when paired with filling ingredients like rice or pasta. This recipe allows you to create a hearty meal without breaking the bank, making it perfect for families and individuals alike.

Additionally, by using pantry staples like canned tomatoes and frozen corn, you can keep your grocery bill low while ensuring that you always have the essentials on hand. This means you can prepare this flavorful skillet meal any time you need a quick, inexpensive dinner solution.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking to streamline your weekly meal prep, this Ground Beef Skillet is an excellent choice. It can be made in bulk and stored in the refrigerator for easy reheating throughout the week. This makes it an ideal option for those with busy schedules or anyone wanting to save time in the kitchen during the weekdays.

Moreover, this dish freezes well, allowing you to make a double batch and save some for later. Just portion it out into containers, and you’ll have a delicious homemade meal ready at a moment's notice. It's comfort food that's always there for you when you need it.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 cup bell pepper, chopped
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked rice or pasta (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, corn, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve

Serve over cooked rice or pasta if desired.

Tips for Customizing Your Skillet Meal

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! If you have leftover vegetables from previous meals, toss them in to enhance the flavor and nutrition. Zucchini, mushrooms, or even leafy greens can complement the ground beef beautifully and add an extra layer of texture.

For those who prefer a bit of heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also experiment with spices beyond chili powder, such as cumin or paprika, to create a flavor profile that suits your taste.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef Skillet is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. While it's delicious on its own, you can elevate your meal by serving it with a side salad or some crusty bread. This adds a refreshing crunch and can make your dinner feel more complete.

If you want to add a touch of creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top can enhance the dish further. Garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also brighten the flavors and make it look more appealing.

Storage and Reheating

To ensure that your Ground Beef Skillet stays fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy it for lunch or dinner later in the week.

When reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the dish seems a bit dry, adding a splash of water or broth can help revive its original flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked skillet meal for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or even a side salad.