Ground Beef Skillet Spicy

Name: Ground Beef Skillet Spicy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A quick and flavorful dish that brings a spicy kick to your dinner table. This ground beef skillet is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to please the whole family.

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2025-12-25T17:25:05.020Z

This Ground Beef Skillet Spicy is a family favorite that combines ground beef with a blend of spices, peppers, and onions. It's a satisfying meal that can be served with rice, tortillas, or simply enjoyed on its own.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold flavors that will excite your taste buds
Quick and easy preparation for busy evenings
Versatile dish that pairs well with various sides

      

A Flavorful Dinner Option

When it comes to weeknight dinners, finding a dish that is both quick to prepare and delicious can be a challenge. This Ground Beef Skillet Spicy recipe is here to save the day! With its bold flavors and satisfying ingredients, this dish is not only easy to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of spices adds a delightful kick, making it exciting for your taste buds while catering to the whole family’s preferences.

One of the beauties of this skillet dish is its adaptability. You can easily modify the level of spice according to your family's taste. Whether you want it mildly spicy or a fiery feast, simply adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your palate. This flexibility ensures that everyone at the table will enjoy a plateful of deliciousness.

Quick and Convenient Cooking

In today's fast-paced world, time is often a luxury we can't afford, especially during busy weeknights. This recipe comes together in just one skillet, reducing both cooking and cleanup time! With a cooking duration of under 30 minutes, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time. It's an ideal solution for those evenings when your schedule is packed but you still want to enjoy a hearty, homemade dinner.

Moreover, the use of a single skillet means that all the flavors meld beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with taste. This method not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the preparation straightforward and manageable, making it perfect for novice cooks or anyone looking to streamline their evening routine.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef Skillet Spicy is wonderfully versatile and can be paired with various sides to create a complete meal. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice for a comforting, filling option. Alternatively, you can spoon it into warm tortillas for a delightful taco night, adding your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.

For a lighter option, consider serving this dish alongside a fresh salad. The crispness of greens will balance the richness of the beef, and a simple vinaigrette can elevate the dish even further. No matter how you choose to serve it, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Ensure all ingredients are prepared before starting to cook for a smooth cooking process.

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Add Spices

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef and vegetables evenly with the spices. Let it cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve

Once cooked, remove from heat and serve hot. This dish pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad.

Enjoy your delicious and spicy ground beef skillet!

Tips for Cooking Ground Beef

When cooking ground beef, it's important to choose the right fat content for your dish. For a skillet recipe like this, using lean ground beef (around 80/20) ensures a balance of flavor and healthiness without excessive grease. This not only enhances the overall taste but also makes the dish more enjoyable.

Be sure to break the meat apart thoroughly while cooking. This allows it to brown evenly and absorb the spices better. For the best results, allow the beef to sear without stirring for the first few minutes before breaking it apart. This helps develop a better crust and flavor.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this Ground Beef Skillet Spicy stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the flavors intact, ensure it's cooled completely before sealing it. You can also freeze the dish for longer storage, lasting up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. This makes for a quick lunch option or an easy dinner that maintains all the delicious flavors of the original dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

This dish pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a simple green salad.