Easy Beef and Peppers Skillet Recipe – One Pan Wonder

This Easy Beef and Peppers Skillet Recipe is the perfect one-pan wonder for busy weeknights. It combines juicy ground beef with colorful bell peppers and onions, all tossed together in a savory sauce. The result is a delicious, filling meal that comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for families looking for convenience and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Beef and Peppers Skillet Recipe

This recipe stands out for several reasons. It’s not only simple and quick to prepare but also versatile. You can adjust the spices to suit your family’s taste preference or swap in different vegetables. Plus, it’s a complete meal that pairs beautifully with rice, helping you to skip the extra side dishes. Lastly, the one-pan aspect means less cleanup, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal and less time washing dishes.

How to Make Easy Beef and Peppers Skillet

Ingredients:

1 lb of ground beef
3 small to medium-sized green bell peppers, chopped
1 large red onion, chopped
1/4 cup of soy sauce
1/4 cup dark Japanese soy sauce (can sub regular soy sauce if preferred)
2 tablespoons of Chinese oyster sauce
2 tablespoons of brown sugar
2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
2 tablespoons of dried chives (can substitute with fresh)
1 teaspoon of white pepper
1 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
2 teaspoons of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of onion powder
1 teaspoon of dried, ground ginger
1 teaspoon of dried chili flakes (optional)
3 tablespoons of toasted sesame oil
1 tablespoon of olive oil
4 cups of cooked rice
Chili garlic sauce for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a large skillet, add 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Heat over medium heat.
Add the chopped green bell peppers and red onion. Sauté for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
Once the vegetables are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside in a bowl.
In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Cook until fully crumbled and browned.
Meanwhile, prepare the rice separately. You may add toasted sesame oil to the rice for additional flavor if desired.
When the beef is fully cooked, return the sautéed peppers and onions to the skillet.
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauces, rice vinegar, remaining toasted sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, ginger, spices, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes.
Pour the sauce over the meat and vegetable mixture. Simmer covered for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
After 25 minutes, uncover and let simmer on low for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve the beef and peppers mixture over rice. Drizzle with chili garlic sauce for an extra kick.

How to Serve Easy Beef and Peppers Skillet

This Easy Beef and Peppers Skillet is perfect served over a bed of fluffy rice. The rice soaks up the delicious sauce, enhancing the meal’s flavors. You can also serve it with a simple side salad for added crunch or garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to brighten up the plate.

How to Store Easy Beef and Peppers Skillet

If you have leftovers, store the Easy Beef and Peppers Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

Tips to Make Easy Beef and Peppers Skillet Perfect

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also add vibrant color to your dish.
Adjust Spice Levels: You can modify the amount of chili flakes or black pepper depending on your heat preference.
Cook Rice in Broth: For an extra flavor boost, cook your rice in beef or vegetable broth instead of water.
Beef Substation: For a healthier version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe. Swap in other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra variety. You can also add chopped tomatoes or corn for a sweeter taste. For an Asian-inspired twist, sprinkle sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top before serving.

Pro Tips for Success

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your skillet is too crowded, the vegetables may steam instead of sauté, leading to a less desirable texture.
Use Quality Soy Sauce: The type of soy sauce you use can make a big difference in flavor. Choosing higher quality soy sauce can elevate the dish.
Marinate the Beef: For added flavor, marinate the ground beef with soy sauce and spices for 30 minutes before cooking.

FAQs About Easy Beef and Peppers Skillet

Can I use frozen bell peppers?
Yes, you can use frozen bell peppers if you are short on time. However, fresh bell peppers will give a better texture and flavor in the final dish.

Is there a gluten-free alternative?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure the oyster sauce is also gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and peppers mixture ahead of time. Just reheat before serving, and the flavors will be even better as they sit together.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Beef and Peppers Skillet is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and convenience. It combines the savory taste of beef with the sweetness of peppers and onions, all brought together in a savory sauce. With minimal preparation and cleanup, this one-pan wonder is a must-try for your busy weeknights. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious family meal that is both satisfying and hassle-free.