Southern Comfort on a Plate: Ground Beef and Bean Skillet Recipe
Nothing says comfort food quite like a hearty, flavorful skillet meal. This Southern Ground Beef and Bean Skillet recipe is a one-pan wonder packed with savory ground beef, tender beans, and a medley of Southern-inspired flavors. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, reminiscent of cowboy cookouts and home-style suppers. It’s adaptable, customizable, and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive in and discover how to make this Southern classic in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
* **One-Pan Wonder:** Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, making this recipe a weeknight hero.
* **Quick and Easy:** Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy schedules.
* **Hearty and Filling:** Packed with protein and fiber, this skillet will keep you satisfied.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your liking with different beans, vegetables, or spices.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
* **Family-Friendly:** A crowd-pleasing meal that even picky eaters will enjoy.
* **Perfect for Meal Prep:** Makes excellent leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients. This recipe serves approximately 6 people.
* **1 pound Ground Beef:** Use 80/20 for the best flavor and moisture. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
* **1 medium Yellow Onion, chopped:** Adds a savory base to the dish.
* **1 Green Bell Pepper, chopped:** Contributes a slightly sweet and vibrant flavor.
* **2 cloves Garlic, minced:** Essential for that classic Southern aroma and flavor.
* **1 (15-ounce) can Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed:** Adds a hearty texture and nutty flavor.
* **1 (15-ounce) can Pinto Beans, drained and rinsed:** Provides a creamy texture and earthy flavor.
* **1 (14.5-ounce) can Diced Tomatoes, undrained:** Adds acidity and moisture to the skillet.
* **1 (10-ounce) can Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies, undrained:** For a touch of heat and flavor.
* **1 cup Corn Kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned):** Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
* **1 packet (1 ounce) Taco Seasoning:** Provides a convenient blend of spices. You can also make your own from scratch.
* **1 teaspoon Chili Powder:** Adds extra depth of flavor and a touch of heat.
* **1/2 teaspoon Cumin:** Contributes a warm, earthy note.
* **1/4 teaspoon Smoked Paprika:** Enhances the smoky flavor profile.
* **1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder:** Boosts the garlic flavor.
* **Salt and Black Pepper to taste:** Season to your preference.
* **2 tablespoons Olive Oil:** For sautéing the vegetables.
* **Optional Toppings:** Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, green onions, avocado slices, cornbread.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Large Skillet (12-inch or larger):** A cast-iron skillet is ideal, but any large skillet will work.
* **Wooden Spoon or Spatula:** For stirring and cooking the ingredients.
* **Can Opener:** To open the canned beans and tomatoes.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurement.
* **Cutting Board and Knife:** For chopping the vegetables.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Southern Ground Beef and Bean Skillet:
**Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef**
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula, until it is browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
**Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables**
1. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef.
2. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
**Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients**
1. Stir in the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes, corn, taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
**Step 4: Simmer the Skillet**
1. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
1. Remove the skillet from the heat.
2. Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, green onions, or avocado slices.
3. Serve with a side of cornbread for a truly Southern experience.
Tips and Variations
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tempeh.
* **Add More Vegetables:** Incorporate other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or diced carrots.
* **Use Different Beans:** Experiment with black beans, great northern beans, or cannellini beans.
* **Make it Cheesy:** Stir in shredded cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a melted, cheesy delight.
* **Serve it Over Rice:** Spoon the skillet mixture over cooked rice for a complete meal.
* **Use Fresh Herbs:** Garnish with fresh parsley, cilantro, or chives for added flavor and freshness.
* **Slow Cooker Adaptation:** Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.
* **Make it a Casserole:** Transfer the skillet mixture to a baking dish, top with shredded cheese and cornbread crumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
* **For a Thicker Sauce:** If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. Simmer until thickened.
* **Adjust the Seasoning:** Taste the skillet before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, chili powder, or taco seasoning to suit your taste.
* **Make it Ahead:** This skillet can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
* **Freezing Instructions:** Allow the skillet to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
* **Cornbread Pairing:** Cornbread is a classic Southern side dish that pairs perfectly with this skillet. Try a sweet cornbread or a savory cornbread with jalapenos and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This Southern Ground Beef and Bean Skillet is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:
* **As a Main Course:** Serve it as is, topped with your favorite toppings.
* **Over Rice:** Spoon it over cooked white or brown rice.
* **In Tacos or Burritos:** Use it as a filling for tacos or burritos.
* **On Nachos:** Spread it over tortilla chips and top with cheese, sour cream, and guacamole.
* **As a Dip:** Serve it with tortilla chips or vegetables as a warm and flavorful dip.
* **With a Side Salad:** Pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
* **With Coleslaw:** Coleslaw provides a cool and crunchy contrast to the warm and hearty skillet.
* **With Baked Potatoes:** Top baked potatoes with the skillet mixture for a loaded baked potato.
* **As a Filling for Stuffed Peppers:** Use it as a filling for bell peppers for a colorful and flavorful dish.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving (depending on toppings and portion size)
* Protein: 30-40 grams
* Fat: 20-30 grams
* Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
* Fiber: 10-15 grams
*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.*
Making Your Own Taco Seasoning
While using a pre-made taco seasoning packet is convenient, making your own taco seasoning allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the flavors to your liking. Here’s a simple recipe:
* 2 tablespoons Chili Powder
* 1 tablespoon Cumin
* 1 teaspoon Paprika
* 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
* 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
* 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano
* 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional, for heat)
* 1/4 teaspoon Salt
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix well. Store in an airtight container. Use 2-3 tablespoons of this homemade taco seasoning in the recipe.
The History of Skillet Cooking
Skillet cooking has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient times. Before modern appliances, skillets were a staple in kitchens around the world, used for everything from frying and sautéing to baking and roasting. In the American South, cast-iron skillets were particularly popular, becoming a symbol of Southern cooking and resourcefulness.
Cast-iron skillets are known for their durability, even heat distribution, and ability to retain heat, making them ideal for cooking a wide variety of dishes. They were often passed down through generations, becoming treasured family heirlooms. Skillet meals like this Ground Beef and Bean Skillet were a practical and delicious way to feed families, using simple, affordable ingredients that were readily available.
Today, skillet cooking remains a popular method for preparing quick, easy, and flavorful meals. Whether you’re using a cast-iron skillet or a modern non-stick skillet, the versatility and convenience of skillet cooking make it a timeless culinary technique.
Why This Recipe Works
This Southern Ground Beef and Bean Skillet recipe works because it combines several key elements that contribute to its delicious flavor and satisfying texture:
* **The Combination of Flavors:** The blend of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, corn, and spices creates a complex and harmonious flavor profile that is both savory and slightly sweet.
* **The Texture Contrast:** The tender ground beef, creamy beans, and slightly crunchy corn provide a satisfying textural contrast that keeps each bite interesting.
* **The Simplicity of Preparation:** The one-pan cooking method simplifies the cooking process and minimizes cleanup, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
* **The Adaptability:** The recipe can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and preferences, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients and flavors.
* **The Comfort Food Factor:** The warm, hearty, and flavorful nature of this skillet makes it a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Other Delicious Skillet Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed this Southern Ground Beef and Bean Skillet, here are a few other skillet recipes you might like:
* **Chicken Fajita Skillet:** A flavorful and colorful skillet with chicken, bell peppers, and onions, seasoned with fajita spices.
* **Sausage and Pepper Skillet:** A classic Italian-American skillet with sausage, bell peppers, and onions, simmered in tomato sauce.
* **Shrimp Scampi Skillet:** A quick and easy skillet with shrimp, garlic, butter, and white wine, served over pasta.
* **Vegetable and Tofu Stir-Fry Skillet:** A healthy and flavorful skillet with tofu and a variety of vegetables, stir-fried in a savory sauce.
* **Breakfast Skillet:** A hearty and satisfying skillet with potatoes, eggs, bacon, sausage, and cheese.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Ground Beef and Bean Skillet is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of Southern comfort food and a reminder of the simple pleasures of home-cooked meals. It’s a dish that brings people together, evokes fond memories, and satisfies the soul.
So, gather your ingredients, grab your skillet, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will become a family favorite for years to come. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and share the love with those you cherish. Happy cooking!