When you need a quick, satisfying dinner that’s packed with protein, this high-protein ground beef skillet delivers every time. Made with lean ground beef, aromatic garlic, and a blend of simple spices, this versatile one-pan recipe comes together in just 30 minutes.
Use it as a base for tacos, burrito bowls, stuffed peppers, or serve it over rice for a hearty meal. Perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights when you need flavor-packed comfort food fast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 30 minutes or less
- High in protein (over 25g per serving)
- One skillet, minimal cleanup
- Versatile base for multiple meals
- Budget-friendly and family-approved
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680g) lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Brown the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add Aromatics
- Push beef to the sides of the skillet. Add diced onion and bell pepper to the center, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Season and Simmer
- Add tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the beef and veggies evenly.
- Add diced tomatoes and stir well. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing flavors to blend and sauce to thicken slightly.
Serve
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
- Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or use as a filling for tacos, nachos, or meal prep bowls.
Meal Prep & Storage
- Store cooked ground beef in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
- Portion into individual containers with your favorite sides for grab-and-go lunches.
Nutrition Highlights (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Fat: 19g
Pro Tips & Variations
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option while maintaining high protein.
- Add black beans or corn for extra fiber and texture.
- Spice it up with diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Mix in spinach or kale during the last 2 minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
- Top with shredded cheese, avocado slices, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions
- Taco night: Spoon into warm tortillas with your favorite toppings
- Burrito bowls: Serve over rice with beans, salsa, and guacamole
- Stuffed peppers: Fill halved bell peppers and bake until tender
- Nachos: Layer over tortilla chips with cheese and bake
- Breakfast hash: Mix with diced potatoes and top with a fried egg
Why This Skillet Recipe Works
This high-protein ground beef skillet is a kitchen workhorse—simple enough for weeknight cooking yet flavorful enough to satisfy the whole family. The lean beef keeps it protein-rich without excess fat, while the spices and tomatoes add depth and comfort. One pan, endless possibilities.