Classic Simple Ground Beef Skillet
This one-pan classic simple ground beef skillet is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for a weeknight dinner. With tender ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, it's a family-friendly dish that's easy to prepare.
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 chopped large onion
- 2 minced cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a little heat
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup small pasta (e.g., elbow macaroni, ditalini)
- to taste Salt and black pepper
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving, optional
Instructions
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until thoroughly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any rendered fat from the pan. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes, then stir in the minced garlic for another minute until fragrant.
- Season the beef mixture with dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste, stirring well to coat evenly.
- Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Stir in the small pasta. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Uncover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes if the sauce is too thin, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
For a milder flavor, omit the red pepper flakes. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms with the onion for extra nutrition and flavor.