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Busy Night? One Pan. Done. → "Leftover Ground Beef Recipes — One Pan Busy Night Done" - A Fast, Flavor-Packed Skillet Meal

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked leftover ground beef (seasoned or plain)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup corn kernels (frozen, canned, or fresh)
  • 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 1 cup uncooked quick-cook rice or 2 cups cooked rice (see note below)
  • 1 1/2 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth (adjust if using cooked rice)
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juices
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella)
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges, sour cream, or hot sauce for serving (optional)

Method
 

  1. Heat the pan: Set a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil or butter and let it warm until shimmering.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Add onion and bell pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the veggies and beans: Stir in corn and black beans. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes to heat through.
  4. Season it up: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir to coat the veggies evenly.
  5. Build the base: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir well.
  6. Choose your rice path: Using uncooked quick-cook rice: Add rice and 1 1/2 cups broth. Stir, bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook 10–12 minutes (or per package directions) until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  7. Using cooked rice: Add 1/2 cup broth and the cooked rice. Stir and simmer uncovered 3–5 minutes until warmed and slightly saucy. Add a splash more broth if it looks dry.
  8. Fold in the leftover beef: Stir in the cooked ground beef. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Let it heat 2–3 minutes.
  9. Melt the cheese: Sprinkle cheese over the top. Cover for 1–2 minutes until melty and gooey.
  10. Finish and serve: Top with cilantro or green onions. Add lime wedges, sour cream, or hot sauce if you like. Serve straight from the skillet.