Ground Beef And Noodle Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Noodle Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 8 oz egg noodles; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Speedy Meal Inspirations

I love how quickly I can whip up this Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet for a satisfying weeknight dinner. The combination of seasoned beef with perfectly cooked noodles creates a wonderfully comforting dish that everyone enjoys. Adding in some vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value. This recipe is a great way to clean out the fridge too, making it versatile for whatever veggies you have on hand. Let’s dive into this delightful, hearty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:21:36.003Z

When I first made this Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together. The secret lies in using one pan, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping cleanup minimal. I recommend browning the beef first to develop a rich flavor base before adding the noodles and sauce. This not only saves time but also enhances the overall taste of the dish.

I've experimented with various seasonings, but I find that a simple mixture of garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of paprika adds depth without overpowering the dish. If you're looking for an extra crunch, sprinkle some crushed red pepper on top before serving, adding a delightful kick that elevates this skillet meal.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick preparation in under 30 minutes for busy weeknights
One-pan dish makes for easy cleanup and fewer dishes
Customizable with your favorite vegetables and spices

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet is the ground beef, which adds richness and depth. Choose a lean variety to avoid excess grease. The beef should be browned just until it's fully cooked but not overly dry, as it will continue to simmer with the noodles and broth. This ensures the meat remains juicy and flavorful, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Egg noodles are the perfect accompaniment in this recipe, providing a tender and slightly chewy texture that absorbs the broth beautifully. If you don’t have egg noodles on hand, you can substitute with other quick-cooking pasta, though the cook time may vary. Just ensure that whatever pasta you use can hold its shape during simmering and won’t turn mushy.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

One crucial technique in this recipe is to allow the beef to brown properly before adding vegetables. This caramelization adds an excellent depth of flavor. If your skillet seems too dry during browning, you may add a splash of beef broth or a teaspoon of oil to help prevent sticking. Stir occasionally but avoid over-stirring, allowing the meat to achieve a nice brown color.

When adding the noodles to the skillet, ensure the broth is bubbling before incorporating them. This helps the noodles cook evenly and ensures they absorb all the delicious flavors from the beef and vegetables. Stirring occasionally will help prevent any sticking to the bottom and guarantee a cohesive texture throughout.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers from this Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you find the dish is too thick upon reheating, adding a splash of beef broth or water can help loosen it up without compromising flavor. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave for quick reheating, making this an easy grab-and-go meal.

For longer storage, you can also freeze portions of this skillet meal. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor. This allows for a hearty meal at a moment's notice, perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
8 oz egg noodles
1 cup broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cups beef broth
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to substitute any vegetables you prefer!

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped onions, bell pepper, and broccoli. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.

Cook Noodles

Add the beef broth, soy sauce, and noodles to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are tender.

Season and Serve

Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and serve hot straight from the skillet.

This dish keeps well, making leftovers a great option for lunch the next day!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the skillet before serving.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have available or what's in season. Adding in vegetables like carrots, snap peas, or even zucchini can introduce new textures and flavors. Just be mindful of the cooking times; denser vegetables should be chopped smaller or added a few minutes earlier to ensure even cooking.

For an extra flavor boost, consider stirring in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce along with the soy sauce. This adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the beef nicely. If you're looking for a lighter dish, substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef works wonderfully, though you'll want to monitor the browning step closely, as these meats can cook faster.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet makes a hearty main dish, but it can also be complemented with a side salad or sliced crusty bread to round out the meal. Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top just before serving brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can also enhance the dish's richness, adding a delightful creaminess that pairs well with the noodles.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your noodles have become too soft, this could be due to cooking them for too long after they’ve become tender. To prevent this, keep a close watch on the timer and taste the noodles a minute or two before the suggested cooking time. They should be al dente as they will continue to absorb the broth even after being removed from heat.

In case you realize your dish is too salty after adding the soy sauce, consider mixing in a little more beef broth or adding a small amount of sugar to balance the flavors. A splash of vinegar can also help cut through the saltiness while enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this recipe.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add carrots, peas, or spinach depending on your preference.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to three months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.