Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet with Vegetables is a delightful and nutritious dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures. Imagine a bustling weeknight when time is of the essence, yet you still want to serve a meal that’s hearty, wholesome, and packed with nutrients. This skillet dish is your answer! It features tender ground beef mingling with protein-rich lentils and vibrant vegetables, all cooked together in one pan for minimal cleanup. Let’s dive into how to create this scrumptious meal that your family will love!
Why This Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet with Vegetables Stands Out
This Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet with Vegetables is not just another dinner recipe; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients. The combination of ground beef, lentils, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying meal that’s both filling and nutrient-dense. Lentils offer a hearty texture while being an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them a perfect partner for ground beef. Plus, the vibrant colors from the vegetables not only make the dish visually appealing but also add essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe is easy to customize, ensuring it can fit various dietary preferences and seasonal ingredients.
What Goes Into Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet with Vegetables
To create this delicious meal, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked lentils
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 bunch broccolini, chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Sea salt to taste
Gathering these fresh ingredients will set you on the right path to preparing a fantastic meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Gear Up: What to Grab
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following gear handy:
- Large skillet or frying pan – for even cooking.
- Cutting board – to chop your vegetables.
- Sharp knife – for easy and safe vegetable prep.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accuracy in ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring your ingredients.
Having the right tools makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Build Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet with Vegetables Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Lentils
Rinse 1 cup of uncooked lentils under cold water. This removes any dust or debris. In a pot, add the rinsed lentils and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender but still firm.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped red onion and carrots. Sauté for approximately 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
Step 3: Add Ground Beef
Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add 1 pound of ground beef. Break it up with a spatula, cooking until browned and fully cooked through. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate Remaining Vegetables
Add the chopped broccolini and red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the vegetables to cook for an additional 5 minutes, becoming tender yet still vibrant.
Step 5: Season the Skillet
Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and sea salt to taste over the mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Combine with Lentils
Once the lentils are cooked, drain any excess water and add them to the skillet. Stir everything together, mixing the lentils with the beef and vegetables. Allow to cook for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
Seasonal Twists
Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables and spices to make this dish your own. Consider:
- Substituting zucchini or squash for broccolini in the summer.
- Using sweet potatoes instead of carrots for a fall twist.
- Incorporating kale or spinach for added greens.
- Adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving for a burst of flavor.
The versatility of this dish allows you to enjoy it year-round with whatever produce is in season.
Chef’s Rationale
The combination of ground beef and lentils provides a wonderful nutritional profile. Ground beef is a rich source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, while lentils contribute fiber, folate, and additional protein. Together, they create a balanced meal that satisfies hunger and provides energy. The variety of vegetables adds both nutrients and flavor, making this dish not only healthy but also visually appealing. Cooking everything in one skillet minimizes cleanup and time spent in the kitchen, allowing you to enjoy a hearty, nutritious meal with ease.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet with Vegetables fresh throughout the week:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months for a quick meal option.
This makes it perfect for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week!
Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet with Vegetables FAQs
Can I use other types of lentils for this recipe?
Yes! While green or brown lentils work best for their texture, you can also use red lentils. Just keep in mind that red lentils cook faster and will become softer.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives or use mushrooms for a hearty texture. Additionally, increase the amount of vegetables and lentils to maintain the protein content.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the skillet ahead of time. Just cook everything and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to eat. Reheat before serving.
What can I serve with this skillet dish?
This Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet with Vegetables pairs well with a simple side salad, crusty bread, or over a bed of rice or quinoa for added carbohydrates.
Quick Weeknight Wins
For those busy weeknights, consider these quick meal ideas that complement the Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet with Vegetables:
These sides are not only easy to prepare but also complement the flavors of the skillet dish beautifully.
Bring It to the Table
Serving Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet with Vegetables is a feast for the eyes and the stomach. Present it in the skillet for a rustic touch, or serve individual portions in bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing. This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends, making it a great option for gatherings or cozy dinners.
This Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet with Vegetables is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor, nutrition, and satisfaction. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’ve created something wholesome and delicious with your own hands. It’s the kind of dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, making it a staple recipe in your kitchen for years to come.
Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet with Vegetables
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked lentils
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 red onion chopped
- 2 carrots chopped
- 1 bunch broccolini chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Sea salt to taste
Instructions
- Rinse 1 cup of uncooked lentils under cold water to remove any dust or debris. In a pot, add the rinsed lentils and cover with water. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for about 20-25 minutes until tender but still firm.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and carrots and sauté for approximately 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add 1 pound of ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add the chopped broccolini and red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional 5 minutes until vegetables are tender yet vibrant.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon garlic powder and sea salt to taste over the mixture. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Drain any excess water from the cooked lentils and add them to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute seasonal vegetables like zucchini, squash, sweet potatoes, kale, or spinach to customize the dish.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep moist.
