GROUND BEEF AND PEPPERS SKILLET

Ground beef and peppers skillet is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. It’s a versatile recipe that you can customize with your favorite seasonings and ingredients. Here’s how to make it:

Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz or 410g) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup (60ml) beef broth or water
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 cup (150g) cooked rice or pasta, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until they start to soften.
3. Add the Garlic and Spices:
   • Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
   • Stir in the paprika, cumin, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast.
4. Combine with Beef and Tomatoes:
   • Return the browned ground beef to the skillet. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and tomato paste.
   • Pour in the beef broth or water, and stir to combine everything.
5. Simmer:
   • Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the peppers to become tender.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
   • Serve the ground beef and peppers mixture over cooked rice or pasta if desired, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.

Tips:

• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before serving for a cheesy variation.
• Spices: Adjust the spices to your taste. Add more paprika for smokiness or more red pepper flakes for heat.
• Leftovers: This dish reheats well and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your flavorful ground beef and peppers skillet!