Hamburger Meat And Tomato Skillet

Name: Hamburger Meat And Tomato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned); 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Magic

I love making Hamburger Meat and Tomato Skillet for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s a one-pan dish that beautifully combines savory ground beef with fresh tomatoes and spices, creating a comforting meal in just 30 minutes. My family appreciates how flavorful it is, and I enjoy the minimal cleanup required. Whether served over rice or in wraps, this dish is sure to impress. The bold flavors and hearty ingredients are perfect for satisfying hunger without the fuss of multiple pots and pans.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-24T07:30:37.701Z

When I first tried this Hamburger Meat and Tomato Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. Using simple ingredients from the pantry and fridge, I whipped up a delicious meal that my family devoured in minutes. The secret is in allowing the tomatoes to simmer, which elevates the flavors incredibly and creates a nice sauce.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily tweak the spices or add in any leftover vegetables. The best tip I have is to drain the excess grease after browning the meat, which keeps the dish from feeling too heavy while letting the tomato flavor shine through.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup.
Flavorful and hearty, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile dish that can be served in multiple ways.

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh tomatoes can elevate the flavor profile of this Hamburger Meat and Tomato Skillet. When you choose ripe, in-season tomatoes, they provide a natural sweetness and acidity that enhance the dish. If fresh tomatoes aren't available, opt for high-quality canned tomatoes; they should be free from added sugars or preservatives for the best flavor impact. Additionally, adding a splash of balsamic vinegar towards the end of the cooking process can intensify the tomato flavor, bringing a lovely depth to your dish.

The quality of your ground beef also matters. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a perfect balance of flavor and moisture. This fat content not only keeps the meat juicy as it cooks but also contributes to the overall richness of the dish. If you’re looking for a leaner alternative, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted, although these will require a bit more seasoning to match the robust flavors of beef.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Texture

When browning the ground beef, ensure your skillet is preheated and the oil is shimmering, which helps achieve that nice caramelization for added flavor. Avoid overcrowding your skillet; rather, cook in batches if necessary. This promotes even browning and prevents the meat from steaming, which could result in a less desirable texture. While sautéing the onions and garlic, look for the onions to become translucent and soft, indicating they have released their sweetness and are ready to pair beautifully with the ground beef.

As you incorporate the tomatoes and spices, give the mixture time to simmer—about 10 minutes—in order to allow the flavors to meld. Keep an eye on the skillet, adjusting the heat as needed to avoid scorching. A thick, chunky sauce is what you’re aiming for; if it becomes too thick, a splash of beef broth or water can help adjust the consistency without affecting flavor.

Serving and Storing Tips

This Hamburger Meat and Tomato Skillet is incredibly versatile in terms of serving. You can enjoy it over white or brown rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Alternatively, try it in a lettuce wrap or inside pita for a lighter option. To mix things up, consider adding different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, which can add extra nutrients and color while keeping the dish fresh and exciting.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help restore moisture. For longer storage, this dish freezes well. I recommend dividing it into portions before freezing, allowing for quick defrost and meal options later. Just be sure to consume it within three months for the best quality.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
2 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to have these ingredients on hand for a successful dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Hamburger Meat and Tomato Skillet:

Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spatula to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks.

Add Onions and Garlic

Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the mixture to simmer and thicken.

Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove from heat and serve warm. This dish can be paired with rice, pasta, or enjoyed in wraps.

Enjoy your easy and savory meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or red pepper flakes for some heat. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this dish with what you have on hand, consider substituting the ground beef with alternatives like ground lamb or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian option. Each substitute will bring its unique flavor profiles; lamb offers a richer taste, while plant-based options can absorb the spices used nicely, making them flavorful too. Just ensure that any substitutions maintain a similar cooking time to avoid overcooking.

As for the spices, if you're out of Italian seasoning, a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme will work beautifully. Additional herbs like parsley or fresh basil added at the end of cooking can provide a refreshing touch. Don’t forget to adjust the salt and pepper to taste; it's essential to ensure a well-seasoned dish no matter the variations.

Variations and Creative Add-ins

For those who enjoy a bit more spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or dicing a jalapeño when you sauté the onions and garlic. This will add warmth and depth to the dish. Another variation could include some diced carrots or peas for added sweetness and color; simply toss them in with the tomatoes and allow them to cook down with the rest of the ingredients.

Cheese lovers can stir in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella just before serving. This will create a deliciously gooey layer on top that complements the savory flavors of the dish, making it even more indulgent. You can also sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan on top before serving for a nutty finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked skillet in portions for up to 3 months. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat!

→ What can I serve it with?

This skillet is perfect over rice, pasta, or even in tortillas for a hearty wrap.