Print

Easy Ground Beef Quinoa Skillet (30-Minutes) Recipe

Easy Ground Beef Quinoa Skillet (30-Minutes) Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 24 reviews

This Easy Ground Beef Quinoa Skillet is a quick and nutritious one-pan meal combining lean ground beef, protein-packed quinoa, and flavorful vegetables. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and packed with delicious spices and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Grains

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or extra-lean)
  • 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)

Vegetables

  • 1 small onion (diced)
  • 1 bell pepper (diced, any color)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

Liquids

  • 1 1/2 cups beef broth or water

Spices

  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt & pepper (to taste)

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat if needed to reduce greasiness.
  2. Sauté the veggies: Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aroma.
  3. Add quinoa and spices: Stir in the rinsed quinoa, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
  4. Incorporate liquids: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the beef broth. Stir thoroughly to distribute the liquids and flavors uniformly in the skillet.
  5. Simmer: Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Let the mixture simmer gently for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and has absorbed all the liquid.
  6. Finish with cheese (optional): If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and allow it to melt for a creamy finish.
  7. Garnish & serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley over the dish for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty, healthy meal.

Notes

  • Rinsing quinoa before cooking removes its natural bitterness.
  • Use lean or extra-lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
  • Beef broth can be substituted with water or vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
  • Adjust spices according to your heat preference.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat or extra vegetables.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef skillet, quinoa recipe, quick dinner, one-pan meal, healthy dinner, 30-minute recipe

Find it online: https://www.sanacooks.com/easy-ground-beef-quinoa-skillet-30-minutes-recipe/