Ground Beef And Noodle Skillet
Highlighted under: Quick Planning
I love making this Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s one of those comforting dishes that brings back memories of family meals around the table. The savory beef and tender noodles come together in just one pan, making clean-up a breeze. Plus, I can easily customize it with whatever vegetables I have on hand, ensuring it's as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this dish never disappoints!
When I first tried making this Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet, I was surprised at how quickly everything came together. The combination of flavors from the beef, broth, and spices creates a rich and hearty meal that warms the soul. I often adjust the seasonings based on what I have in my pantry, which makes every batch slightly different yet always delightful.
One of the best tips I've learned is to brown the ground beef well before adding other ingredients. This technique enhances the flavor of the dish immensely. Also, using egg noodles not only cooks quickly but absorbs the sauce beautifully, wrapping every noodle in flavor. It’s a family favorite for a reason!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
- One-pan cooking means less time cleaning up
- Versatile and customizable based on your pantry essentials
Choosing the Right Ingredients
For this Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet, selecting quality ground beef is essential to achieving a rich flavor. I prefer using lean ground beef, around 80% lean, to balance flavor and fat. If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted; just be aware that they may require additional seasoning to enhance their flavor profile.
The type of egg noodles you choose also matters. While traditional egg noodles work well, feel free to experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free varieties. Each type may slightly alter the cooking time, so be sure to check package instructions and adjust the simmering time in the skillet accordingly.
Enhancing the Flavor
The combination of soy sauce and Italian seasoning in this recipe adds depth to the dish. If you want an extra kick, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes. These additions can elevate the flavor profile and make the dish even more satisfying, especially for those who prefer bolder tastes.
When sautéing the onions and garlic, aim for that golden color, as it indicates the aromatic flavors have developed. This step is crucial because it lays the foundation for the savory profile of the dish. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the skillet, incorporating those flavorful brown bits into the mix.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet:
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet:
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Sauté Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Add Broth and Noodles
Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the egg noodles, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
Mix in Vegetables
Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through and the noodles have absorbed the flavors.
Serve
Remove from heat, give it a gentle stir, and serve hot. Enjoy your meal!
This one-pan meal is now ready to tantalize your taste buds!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add any leftover vegetables or even beans to the skillet for extra nutrition. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. A sprinkle of grated cheese on top before serving enhances the flavor even more.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for meal prep. Cook the beef and vegetables, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
If you want to freeze leftovers, allow the skillet to cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, consider serving this dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added crunch and nutrition. A light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the skillet, balancing the meal nicely without overshadowing it.
Another fun serving idea is to top the skillet with shredded cheese during the last couple of minutes of cooking. Allow it to melt beautifully on top, creating a gooey, delicious finish. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for an exciting twist.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and check the soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
→ Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Ground Beef And Noodle Skillet
I love making this Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s one of those comforting dishes that brings back memories of family meals around the table. The savory beef and tender noodles come together in just one pan, making clean-up a breeze. Plus, I can easily customize it with whatever vegetables I have on hand, ensuring it's as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this dish never disappoints!
Created by: Blythe Rowland
Recipe Type: Quick Planning
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the egg noodles, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through and the noodles have absorbed the flavors.
Remove from heat, give it a gentle stir, and serve hot. Enjoy your meal!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add any leftover vegetables or even beans to the skillet for extra nutrition. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. A sprinkle of grated cheese on top before serving enhances the flavor even more.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 25g