Italian Cast Iron Ground Beef Skillet

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Steps

1. 1 Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat.
2. 2 Add onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened.
3. 3 Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute.
4. 4 Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
5. 5 Stir in diced tomatoes, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. 6 Remove from heat, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top, and let it melt for a few minutes.

Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Wooden spoon

Variations

• Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet for a one-pan pasta dish.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Substitutions

• Use fresh herbs if available, like basil or oregano, for a fresher flavor.
• Substitute Italian seasoning blend for the oregano and basil.

Pairings

• Pairs well with a robust red wine like Chianti.
• Serve with a side of garlic bread and a Caprese salad.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, let the skillet rest for 5 minutes before serving.
• Feel free to add other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for a heartier meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet over medium heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of crusty bread or over spaghetti squash for a complete meal.
• Pair with a simple arugula salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette.

FAQ