30-Minute Ground Beef and Mushroom Skillet
If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This 30-Minute Ground Beef and Mushroom Skillet is a perfect blend of savory ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. Whether you’re in a hurry on a weeknight or just want something delicious with minimal effort, this dish fits the bill. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, making it a staple recipe you’ll return to time and again.
Why Cooks Rave About It
The beauty of the 30-Minute Ground Beef and Mushroom Skillet lies in its simplicity and speed. In just half an hour, you can whip up a hearty meal that the whole family will love. It’s packed with protein from the beef, vitamins from the spinach, and umami-rich flavors from the mushrooms and garlic. Not to mention, it’s a one-pan dish, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward! This recipe is not only quick but also customizable, allowing you to adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Gather These Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering skillet dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 Tbsp avocado oil
- 1 medium-sized yellow onion, diced
- 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 Tbsp coconut aminos or soy sauce, optional
- 5 ounces baby spinach (about 2 big handfuls)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt, to taste
Equipment at a Glance
Before you start cooking, gather these essential pieces of equipment:
- Skillet: A large skillet or frying pan will work best for even cooking.
- Knife: For chopping the onion and mushrooms.
- Cutting board: To keep your workspace organized.
- Spatula: For stirring and serving your delicious creation.
Cooking 30-Minute Ground Beef and Mushroom Skillet: The Process
Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal in just 30 minutes!
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat. This oil is great for cooking due to its high smoke point and health benefits.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Mushrooms and Garlic
Stir in the chopped baby bella mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to soften and the garlic to become aromatic.
Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with your spatula, cooking until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 5: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle the dried oregano and sea salt over the beef mixture. If you’re using coconut aminos or soy sauce, add that now. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
Step 6: Add the Spinach
Gently fold in the baby spinach, stirring until it wilts and integrates into the mixture. This should take about 2 minutes.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the skillet from heat and serve your 30-Minute Ground Beef and Mushroom Skillet hot. Enjoy it on its own or with a side of rice or your favorite grain.
Variations by Season
This dish is versatile enough to adapt to seasonal ingredients. Here are some ideas to switch things up throughout the year:
- Spring: Add asparagus or peas for a fresh touch.
- Summer: Incorporate zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful twist.
- Fall: Mix in some butternut squash or sweet potatoes for added sweetness.
- Winter: Use kale instead of spinach, as it holds up better in warmer dishes.
Slip-Ups to Skip
Even the best cooks make mistakes! Here are some common slip-ups to avoid while making your 30-Minute Ground Beef and Mushroom Skillet:
- Don’t rush the browning of the beef. Allowing it to brown properly enhances the flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the spinach; it should be just wilted, not mushy.
- Don’t skip the seasoning! It’s essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Storage & Reheat Guide
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because this dish is so tasty!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Storage: Place the cooled skillet mixture in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, warm the skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking.
Common Questions
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat can be used instead of beef for a different flavor or dietary preference.
What can I serve with this skillet dish?
This 30-Minute Ground Beef and Mushroom Skillet pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes! You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the skillet for some heat. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Weekend Projects
If you’re inspired to keep cooking, check out these delicious recipes!
Wrap-Up
The 30-Minute Ground Beef and Mushroom Skillet is a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavors that everyone will enjoy. With just a handful of ingredients and a little time, you can create a wholesome meal that satisfies. Plus, the one-pan aspect means less time doing dishes and more time enjoying your delicious creation.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful dinner tonight!
30-Minute Ground Beef and Mushroom Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped baby bella mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to soften and the garlic to become aromatic.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with your spatula, cooking until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Sprinkle the dried oregano and sea salt over the beef mixture. If you're using coconut aminos or soy sauce, add that now. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Gently fold in the baby spinach, stirring until it wilts and integrates into the mixture. This should take about 2 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve your 30-Minute Ground Beef and Mushroom Skillet hot.
Notes
- Customize with seasonal vegetables for variety.
- Make it spicier by adding red pepper flakes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
