Cheddar cheese melting over one pound ground beef recipes skillet
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Quick and Tasty One Pound Ground Beef Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Bytheswiftrecipes

Quick and Tasty One Pound Ground Beef Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Looking for dinner ideas that are quick, budget-friendly, and totally satisfying? You’ve come to the right place. These one pound ground beef recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast but still full of flavor. As a home cook who juggles work, family, and life, I know the value of a reliable recipe that stretches a single pound of ground beef into a hearty meal.

Whether you’ve got a pack of ground beef in the fridge or pulled one from the freezer last minute, these recipes will help you make the most of it—with minimal prep and maximum taste.

Ingredient Breakdown (Base Recipe Example: one pound ground beef recipes)

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning (or homemade)
  • 1 cup canned black beans (drained)
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup salsa or diced tomatoes
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Substitution Ideas

  • Vegetarian: Swap beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils.
  • Low-carb Option: For a lower-carb variation, leave out the beans and corn and add extra peppers or zucchini.
  • Cheese-free: Use dairy-free cheese or omit for a lighter dish.
  • Beans: Feel free to choose from kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas based on what you prefer.

5 Easy Steps: Ground Beef Taco Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Onions cooking in a skillet for the taco beef skillet.
Start with onions to build the flavor base.

Warm a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

One pound of ground beef cooking in a skillet.
Brown your beef thoroughly for deep flavor.

Stir in the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until no longer pink—about 6–7 minutes.

Step 3: Season and Add Fillers

Taco seasoning sprinkled over browned ground beef.
Season it up with your favorite taco blend.

Mix in garlic powder, taco seasoning, and either salsa or diced tomatoes. Let everything simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Beans and Corn

Adding black beans and corn to the taco skillet.
Beans and corn bulk up the meal deliciously.

Mix in black beans and corn. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Melt Cheese and Serve

Cheddar cheese melting over one pound ground beef recipes skillet

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the skillet. Cover and let melt for 1–2 minutes before serving.

       Pro Tips

  • If you’d like, you can use a potato masher to easily break up the beef as it cooks.
  • Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor.
  • Double the recipe and freeze half for a future weeknight dinner.
  • Mix in cooked rice or quinoa to stretch the meal even further.

   Serving Ideas

  • Serve over rice or cauliflower rice.
  • Scoop into taco shells or burritos.
  • Use as a nacho topping.
  • Pile onto baked potatoes for a Tex-Mex twist.

    Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Storage: Cool leftovers and store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
  • Freezing: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Microwave in 60-second intervals or warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water.

    FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! This dish stores well and reheats easily, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.

Is it spicy? It depends on your taco seasoning. Use mild salsa for less heat, or spice it up with chili flakes.

Can I add veggies? Absolutely! Diced zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms blend in beautifully.

What if I don’t have taco seasoning? Use a mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano.

       Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving, serves 4):

  • Calories: 370
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbs: 18g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 5g

     Conclusion

With just one pound of ground beef, you can whip up a dinner that’s flavorful, fast, and family-approved. These one pound ground beef recipes are my go-to when life gets hectic but hunger doesn’t wait. Try one tonight, and let me know which one becomes your new favorite!

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