Classic Hamburger Meat Skillet Dinner

Name: Classic Hamburger Meat Skillet Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Shredded cheese for topping (optional); Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Inspiration

I can confidently say that this Classic Hamburger Meat Skillet Dinner is a go-to meal in our household. It brings together ground beef, vegetables, and seasonings all cooked in one skillet, making it not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. In just 30 minutes, we transform simple ingredients into a hearty, satisfying dinner that everyone loves. The blend of flavors and the ease of preparation mean we can enjoy a homemade meal even on the busiest nights of the week.

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:53:36.272Z

I remember the first time I made this Classic Hamburger Meat Skillet Dinner; it was a rainy night, and I needed something warm and filling. As I browned the beef and sautéed the onions, my kitchen filled with such a comforting aroma that it instantly lifted my spirits. Serving it with a sprinkle of cheese made it feel extra special, and I couldn't help but sneak a few bites while cooking!

This dish is so versatile; I often throw in whatever vegetables I have on hand, whether it's bell peppers, zucchini, or corn. The beauty of cooking it all together in one skillet means that the flavors meld perfectly. I recommend keeping an eye on the heat to ensure the beef stays juicy and tender.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
One-pan convenience for easy cleanup
Savory and satisfying flavor combinations
Customizable with your favorite veggies and seasonings

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Classic Hamburger Meat Skillet Dinner is quality ground beef. Choose a lean blend, such as 80/20, to achieve the right balance of flavor and tenderness without excessive grease. Using fresher ingredients, like farm-fresh bell peppers and onions, enhances the flavor profile, making every bite enjoyable. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted without losing the dish’s heartiness, although you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure proper doneness.

Including vegetables not only adds essential nutrition but also contributes to the overall texture and flavor. Sautéing the onion and bell pepper until they are soft and fragrant creates a nice depth of flavor and serves as a perfect backdrop for the garlic and tomatoes. You can also incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for variation; just be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on their water content so the final dish doesn’t become too soupy.

Cooking Techniques

Achieving the perfect browning of the ground beef is crucial. Use a wide skillet to allow for even cooking and ensure that the beef is spread out in a single layer. Cook the meat over medium heat, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a spatula until fully browned and no longer pink. This process shouldn’t take longer than 7-10 minutes. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than browning, so always be mindful of the amount of meat added at once.

When adding garlic to the skillet, keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, which can introduce a bitter taste to your dish. Sauté for just about 30 seconds to a minute until fragrant, then swiftly incorporate the other ingredients to keep the flavors bright and fresh. Allowing the mixture to simmer afterward melds flavors beautifully; stir occasionally while keeping it covered to retain moisture without making the dish too watery.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious dinner!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Shredded cheese for topping (optional)
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Make sure to adjust the ingredients based on your taste preferences!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your skillet dinner.

Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute before adding the diced tomatoes, corn, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Simmer the Mixture

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve and Enjoy

Top with shredded cheese and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot!

Enjoy your hearty meal with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different spices or add cooked pasta for a heartier dish.

Make-Ahead Tips

This skillet dinner is a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the ground beef and sauté the vegetables in advance. Store them separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, which allows for convenient assembly on busy nights. Simply reheat the meat and veggie mix in the skillet, add the remaining ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious meal in less than 10 minutes.

If you’re looking to freeze this dish, consider assembling it without adding the shredded cheese or garnish. Cool the meat and vegetable mixture completely after cooking, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat gently in a skillet until warmed through. Top with cheese before serving for that gooey, melted finish.

Serving Suggestions

This Classic Hamburger Meat Skillet Dinner can be served over a bed of rice or pasta for a heartier meal. Alternatively, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or tortillas, making it an excellent option for a filling wrap. Consider adding a side salad for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s savory profile; a simple vinaigrette works well to balance the richness of the meat.

For those who appreciate a bit of spice, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the skillet. This extra layer of heat enhances flavor complexity and makes the dish stand out. Additionally, consider incorporating a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce while the mixture simmers for an umami boost that elevates the overall taste experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and will give a lighter flavor.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet dinner goes well with rice, pasta, or a simple side salad.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

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

→ Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.