Ground Beef Skillet

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)

• 1 cup uncooked pasta or rice (see variations below)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

• 1 ½ cups beef broth (or water)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp chili powder (optional)

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite)

• Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

🔥 Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:

   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat.

   • Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Add Aromatics:

   • Stir in onion, garlic, and bell pepper.

   • Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Add Grains & Liquids:

   • Stir in uncooked pasta (or rice), diced tomatoes (with juice), broth, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Simmer:

   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.

   • Cover and simmer for:

     • Pasta: ~12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally

     • Rice: ~18–22 minutes (add extra broth if needed)

   • Cook until the pasta/rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.

5. Add Cheese:

   • Sprinkle cheese on top.

   • Cover and let sit for a few minutes until melted, or broil for 2–3 minutes for a bubbly top.

6. Garnish & Serve:

   • Top with chopped parsley or green onions.

   • Serve hot straight from the skillet.