Craving something cheesy, hearty, and comforting? Look no further than this delicious Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet. It’s the perfect one-pan dish that balances savory beef with melted cheese, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or any time you need a quick meal that’s packed with flavor. Plus, it’s versatile, with options for those seeking a high-protein or low-carb version. Dive in to learn how to bring this delightful dish to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional garnishes: fresh parsley, sliced avocado, lime wedges
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet – Step By Step
Step 1:
Heat the skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, providing a flavorful base for your skillet meal.
Step 2:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and paprika to infuse the meat with depth and warm spice.
Step 3:
Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, including the juices, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step ensures each bite is juicy and tender.
Step 4:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture, covering the skillet. Allow the cheese to melt thoroughly, creating a gooey, irresistible surface.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet
Serve the dish straight from the skillet for a rustic, cozy meal experience. Pair it with a side of simple green salad or sautéed vegetables. Garnish with parsley or avocado for added freshness.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
- For extra creaminess, try adding a dollop of sour cream when serving.
- Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor twist.
- This recipe is great for meal prep—consider doubling the batch for leftovers.
Protein Packed Powerhouse – Maximize Your Meal
If you’re looking to boost the protein content, consider adding kidney beans or black beans to the skillet. These options not only complement the beef and cheese with their rich texture but also enhance nutritional value.
You can also stir in cooked quinoa or lentils for an added protein and fiber punch, without compromising on taste or making the dish feel heavy.
Low-Carb Delight: Guilt-Free Tasting
For a low-carb version, swap the diced tomatoes for fresh, diced bell peppers. These add a crunchy sweetness and keep the carbohydrate count low.
Consider serving the skillet over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to maintain a diet-friendly profile while enjoying all the savory flavors and cheesy goodness.
Storage Instructions
To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
FAQs
- Can this recipe be made in advance?
- Yes, this dish easily reheats, making it perfect for meal prep.
- What other cheeses can I use?
- You can try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
- How can I make it spicier?
- Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Is ground turkey a good substitute?
- Absolutely, ground turkey is a leaner option and works great in this skillet meal.
Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- shredded cheddar cheese
- diced tomatoes
- onion
- garlic
- chili powder
- smoked paprika
- salt and pepper
- olive oil
Instructions
Steps
- Heat the skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and paprika.
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, including the juices, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture, covering the skillet. Allow the cheese to melt thoroughly.
- Serve with optional garnishes of fresh parsley, avocado slices, or lime wedges.