High Protein Beef Skillet Dinner

Name: High Protein Beef Skillet Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (lean, 90% or higher); 1 bell pepper (any color, diced); 1 medium onion (diced); 2 cups spinach (fresh); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Classics

I love making this High Protein Beef Skillet Dinner because it's not only packed with flavor but also super quick to prepare. In just under 30 minutes, I can have a hearty meal ready that satisfies my protein needs while also being nutritious. It's a one-pan dish that makes cleanup a breeze, and the combination of juicy beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a deliciously balanced dinner. Whether I'm cooking for myself or for friends, this recipe is a go-to that never disappoints.

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-15T01:29:36.216Z

When I first tried this recipe, I soon realized that the secret to a successful beef skillet dinner lies in the marinating of the meat. By letting the beef soak up the spices for even just a few minutes while I prep the vegetables, I found that it significantly enhances the flavors. Tossing the beef in a hot skillet ensures a beautiful sear, locking in those juices that keep the meat tender and juicy.

Another tip I discovered was the importance of not overcrowding the pan. Cooking the beef in batches allows for better browning and texture. Plus, it ensures even cooking, making every bite of this dish incredibly satisfying. As someone who enjoys experimenting with flavors, I’ve found that adding a splash of balsamic vinegar right at the end elevates the dish beautifully, giving it a delicious depth that you won’t want to miss.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with high-quality protein to fuel your day.
Loaded with colorful vegetables for a hearty and healthy meal.
Quick and easy clean-up thanks to the one-pan cooking method.

Perfecting the Beef

The key to achieving perfectly browned ground beef lies in the heat management. Begin with medium-high heat, ensuring that the olive oil is shimmering before adding the beef. This allows for optimal browning, which enhances the dish's flavor profile. Use a spatula to break the meat apart only when necessary, allowing each piece to form a nice crust. Aim for a golden-brown color on the beef, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes.

Seasoning the beef correctly is crucial. Adding salt and pepper right after it begins to brown allows the flavors to penetrate the meat better. The cumin and paprika will contribute a warm, earthy taste, creating a robust base for the dish. Adjust the spices according to your preference, keeping in mind that more paprika can add a slight smokiness that deepens the overall flavor.

Vegetable Power

Incorporating the vegetables in stages helps maintain their texture. Start with the onion and bell pepper, allowing them to sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are just softened and start to become translucent. This step not only enhances their sweetness but also infuses the skillet with aromatic depth, setting the stage for the rest of the ingredients.

Don’t rush adding the garlic; it only needs about a minute to release its aromatics. Overcooking garlic can lead to bitterness, so stir it in right before the spinach to ensure it retains its fresh flavor. The addition of fresh spinach at the end not only boosts the dish's nutritional profile but also adds a vibrant color that makes the meal visually appealing.

Serving and Storage

This High Protein Beef Skillet Dinner can be served immediately straight from the pan, making it perfect for weeknight meals. If you want to elevate the dish, consider adding toppings like crumbled feta or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to add a flavor boost and freshness.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave, maintaining the texture of the vegetables and beef. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked dish for up to three months; simply reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to help revitalize the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious High Protein Beef Skillet Dinner:

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (lean, 90% or higher)
1 bell pepper (any color, diced)
1 medium onion (diced)
2 cups spinach (fresh)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Have everything ready? Let's move on to the cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your High Protein Beef Skillet Dinner:

Cook the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables start to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Add Spinach and Finish

Finally, mix in the fresh spinach, and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. If using, drizzle balsamic vinegar over the top before serving.

Your High Protein Beef Skillet Dinner is now ready to serve!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to substitute your choice of herbs like oregano or thyme. Additionally, using a mix of ground meats, such as turkey or chicken, can alter the taste and provide variety.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on your preferences or what's available. Zucchini, corn, or even mushrooms can be excellent additions that bring new flavors and textures. If you prefer a spicy kick, consider tossing in some diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.

For dietary preferences, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, which will result in a lighter dish while still providing a satisfying protein source. If aiming for a vegetarian version, replace the meat with lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh, adjusting cooking times accordingly as they will require less time to heat through.

Cooking Technique Tips

When sautéing the vegetables, make sure they are cut into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. This is particularly important for the bell pepper and onion, so they soften at the same rate. A good tip is to dice them small if you enjoy a melt-in-your-mouth texture in the final dish.

If you find yourself with a lot of moisture when cooking the beef, it may prevent proper browning. To counteract this, drain excess fat before adding your vegetables. This will also prevent the dish from becoming overly greasy while allowing the spices to adhere better to the beef.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're cooking for a larger group, scaling this recipe is easy. Simply double the ingredients, but be mindful of your skillet's capacity. If it gets too crowded, consider using two pans to ensure that everything cooks evenly without steaming the ingredients.

To maintain flavor consistency when scaling up, remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly. A good rule of thumb is to increase spices and salt gradually, tasting as you go, to avoid overpowering the dish. This can help retain the balance of flavors that makes this dish so enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives that will still keep the dish high in protein.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge, then just heat and add the spinach before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet dinner pairs well with brown rice, quinoa, or even a simple side salad for a complete meal.