Ground Beef And Noodle Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Noodle Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups egg noodles; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 cup bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated cheese for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Family Recipes

When I'm in the mood for a hearty meal that comes together in no time, I always turn to my Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet. This dish is not only delicious but also a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. The blend of savory ground beef with tender noodles creates a comforting experience, perfect for busy weeknights. I love how I can customize it with whatever vegetables I have on hand, adding a personal touch. Join me in exploring this quick and satisfying meal that never fails to please everyone at the table!

Created by

Gillian Sykes

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:47:34.436Z

When I first made this Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet, I was looking for something quick yet satisfying. The trick is the use of beef broth to infuse the noodles with flavor as they cook, eliminating the need for additional sauces. You can truly taste the difference!

After a few tries, I discovered that adding a splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of cheese at the end elevates this dish even more. It makes for a savory, comforting meal that my whole family loves, and it’s all made in one skillet, which is a huge bonus.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
One-pan meal for easy cleanup
Rich flavors that satisfy the whole family
Quick preparation, perfect for busy nights

Ingredient Insights

The backbone of this Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet is the ground beef, which adds both protein and rich flavor to the dish. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for optimal taste and texture. This fat content keeps the beef juicy as it cooks and enhances the overall savoriness of the meal. For a leaner option, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken, but remember that lean meats may require additional seasoning to achieve a similar depth of flavor.

Egg noodles are another star ingredient, offering a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the savory beef. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the beef broth and soy sauce, making every bite fulfilling. If you're looking to switch things up, feel free to substitute with whole wheat noodles or gluten-free egg noodles, but be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary, since different pasta varieties can vary in their required boiling durations.

Cooking Techniques

When browning the beef, it's crucial to cook it over medium heat to ensure even browning without burning. This process should take around 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to break down the clumps for that lovely, crumbly texture. If the meat begins to stick or brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly and keep it moving in the pan. This really helps to build that savory fond, which enhances the flavors of your dish later on.

Sautéing the vegetables after browning the beef not only softens them but also allows their flavors to meld with the meat. Keep an eye on them during this stage: when they turn translucent and fragrant, they're done. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Overcooking here can lead to mushy vegetables, so remember to remove them from heat once they reach that tender yet still slightly crisp texture!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
2 cups egg noodles
1 medium onion, chopped
1 cup bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated cheese for topping (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready to go before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious skillet meal!

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until fully browned. Drain excess fat.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the meat. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Noodles and Broth

Stir in the egg noodles, beef broth, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Cook Until Tender

Cover the skillet and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Top with grated cheese if desired.

Dig in and enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add additional vegetables such as peas or carrots for extra nutrition. This dish is highly customizable!

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning ahead, consider preparing the skillet up to the point of adding the broth and noodles. Simply cool the mixture after sautéing the vegetables and meat, transfer it to an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just add the broth and noodles directly in the skillet. This can save time on busy nights while still delivering a home-cooked meal.

Another great make-ahead option is to freeze individual portions. Let the dish cool completely, then divide it into freezer-safe containers. This way, you can easily reheat your meal on a hectic day; just pop it in the microwave or warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to help rehydrate the noodles.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet is a complete meal by itself, but you can easily elevate it with a fresh side salad or steamed broccoli for added color and nutrition. For a pop of flavor, serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving. This brightens the dish while also providing a pleasant contrast to the savory ingredients.

If you're sharing with a crowd, consider doubling the recipe and serving it in a large dish, offering toppings like grated cheese or sour cream on the side. This caters to different tastes and adds an interactive dining experience. Kids especially love being able to customize their meals, making it a fun option for family dinners.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

→ What if I don't have egg noodles?

You can use any pasta you have on hand; just adjust the cooking time as necessary.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth.