Name: Ground Beef Quinoa Skillet: 7 Steps to a Hearty Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this ground beef quinoa skillet! It’s honestly one of my go-to recipes when I need something hearty, nutritious, and quick. Picture this: you have juicy, savory ground beef mixed with fluffy quinoa, all simmered together with vibrant veggies and spices. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a great option for a filling meal that won’t leave you feeling sluggish. Plus, everything cooks in just one pan, which means less cleanup—yay! Trust me, this skillet dish will become a favorite in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!

ground beef quinoa skillet - detail 1

Ingredients for Ground Beef Quinoa Skillet

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious ground beef quinoa skillet. It’s super straightforward! Gather the following ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups beef broth
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Feel free to toss in any extra veggies you love; they’ll only enhance the flavor and nutrition! Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Ground Beef Quinoa Skillet

Alright, let’s dive into making this scrumptious ground beef quinoa skillet! It’s super simple, and I promise it’ll be a breeze. First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want that oil nice and hot, so it sizzles when you add the onions. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes soft and translucent—about 3-4 minutes. Now, stir in your ground beef, cooking until it’s browned all over, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Next, add in the chopped bell pepper, diced tomatoes (with their juices), rinsed quinoa, and beef broth. This is where the magic happens! Sprinkle in the cumin and paprika, giving everything a good stir. Bring your mixture to a boil, then lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the quinoa to soak up all those fantastic flavors. Before serving, taste it and add salt and pepper as needed. And voilà, your hearty meal is ready!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the ground beef; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Add bell pepper, diced tomatoes (with juices), quinoa, and beef broth.
Sprinkle in cumin and paprika; mix well.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This ground beef quinoa skillet is a game changer for busy weeknights! Here’s why you’ll adore it:

Quick and easy: It comes together in just about 40 minutes, perfect for those hectic days!
One-pan wonder: Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal and relax.
Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a healthy choice that keeps you satisfied.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch!
Delicious flavors: The combination of ground beef, quinoa, and spices creates a comforting dish you’ll crave.

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making this skillet on repeat!

Tips for Success

To make sure your ground beef quinoa skillet turns out perfectly, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t skip rinsing your quinoa—this helps remove any bitter taste. If you find your beef is sticking, just give it a little more time to brown before stirring. Also, feel free to adjust the spices to your taste; if you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, and enjoy again!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to nutrition, keep in mind that values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I can’t provide an exact breakdown, here’s a general idea of what you can expect in one serving of this ground beef quinoa skillet:

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Cholesterol: 85mg

It’s a hearty dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, making it a fantastic choice for any meal!

Serving Suggestions

This ground beef quinoa skillet is so versatile, and there are plenty of ways to round out your meal! You can serve it with a fresh green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette to balance the hearty flavors. If you’re craving something extra, warm tortillas or crusty bread make perfect accompaniments for scooping up every delicious bite. For an added crunch, top your skillet with some avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt. And let’s not forget a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor! Enjoy your feast!

FAQ Section

Got questions about the ground beef quinoa skillet? I’ve got answers! First off, how long does it take to cook? The whole process is about 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time. If you want to swap out ingredients, feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or toss in any veggies you have on hand—zucchini or spinach work great!

As for leftovers, they store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently, and you’re all set! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions—happy cooking!

For more information on the health benefits of quinoa, check out this article. You’ll find that quinoa is not only a great source of protein but also rich in essential nutrients!