One-Pan Comfort: easy ground beef dinners few ingredients
This one-pan ground beef and mixed vegetable skillet uses just a few ingredients. It makes a warm, simple meal for one or two with very little fuss.
This recipe is handy when you want one pan, a small portion, and soft textures. The vegetables get tender and the beef stays moist.
It uses common items from most grocery stores and the steps keep cleanup low. The flavors come together with minimal seasoning so it is gentle on digestion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 ounces lean ground beef (about 1/2 pound)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables – peas, carrots, corn, green beans
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/3 cup)
- 1 clove garlic, minced or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon neutral oil for cooking
- 1/4 teaspoon salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
Pantry items you likely have: neutral oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano or basil. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or soft bread if you like.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Warm a medium skillet over medium heat with 1 teaspoon oil.
- Add the chopped onion and cook 2 to 3 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add the garlic and ground beef. Break the beef into small pieces as it browns and cook 5 to 7 minutes until no longer pink.
- If you want a lighter dish for digestion, spoon off and discard excess fat or blot the pan with a paper towel carefully.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and frozen mixed vegetables and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook 6 to 8 minutes, stirring once, until the vegetables are very tender. Cook longer for softer textures.
- Taste and season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and a few cracks of pepper. Add a pinch of dried herbs if desired and serve warm.
Tips and Easy Variations
Make it easier to chew
- Cook covered a little longer so vegetables become very soft.
- Lightly mash the mixture with the back of a spoon before serving for a smoother texture.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or soft bread to make bites easier.
Lighter for digestion
- Use lean ground beef or drain excess fat after browning.
- Substitute 8 ounces ground turkey or a plant-based ground product for a leaner option.
- Omit garlic or onion if those bother you and use a small pinch of garlic powder instead.
Flavor and vegetable swaps
- Change the vegetable mix to bell pepper, zucchini, or thawed frozen spinach.
- Use low sodium crushed tomatoes to reduce salt.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness instead of extra salt.
Quick tips to remember
- Cook slowly and covered for softer textures.
- Drain fat after browning to make the dish lighter.
- Start with less salt and add more after tasting.
Storage and Leftovers
Fridge
Cool to room temperature and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Freeze single-serve portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to keep it moist, or microwave covered in short intervals.
Conclusion
Give this one-pan skillet a try when you want a small, comforting meal without a long ingredient list. It is simple, gentle on digestion, and designed for one or two servings with minimal cleanup.
The recipe is flexible so you can swap vegetables or use leaner meat to suit your needs while keeping preparation quick and cleanup easy.
FAQ
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?▶
Yes. Chop them small and add them with the tomatoes. You may need a few more minutes to reach a soft texture.
Is this safe to freeze?▶
Yes. Freeze in single-serve containers for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make this without garlic or onion?▶
Yes. You can omit them or use a small pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to keep the flavor gentle.
How do I make it lower in fat?▶
Use lean ground beef or substitute ground turkey. Drain fat after browning and blot the pan to remove excess oil.
What if I need a softer texture for chewing?▶
Cook the vegetables until very soft and mash the mixture slightly. Serve with mashed potatoes or soft bread to make each bite easier.
