When the dinner rush feels like a marathon and I can’t tolerate another round of takeout, I find myself reaching for comforting recipes that won’t leave me exhausted. Enter this Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet! It’s my secret weapon for busy weeknights—unforgettable Philly cheesesteak flavors without the fuss. Picture juicy ground beef mingling with colorful bell peppers, savory mushrooms, and a delightful surprise of riced cauliflower that sneaks in some extra nutrition.
Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is so satisfying it’ll have your family asking for seconds. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, which means less time scrubbing dishes & more time gathered around the table with loved ones. So, if you’re looking to amp up your veggie game without sacrificing taste, grab your skillet and let’s get cooking!
Why is Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: Dinner doesn’t get simpler than this! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant, veggie-packed meal that curbs cravings without stress.
One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy the ease of a single skillet—less cleanup equals more quality time with family.
Flavorful Fusion: Juicy ground beef meets melty cheese and colorful veggies for an irresistible taste sensation!
Nutrient Boost: With riced cauliflower sneaking in extra veggies, it’s a dish that satisfies and nourishes.
Customizable Delight: Easily adapt this recipe to your family’s preferences—swap proteins or add your favorite vegetables!
Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet Ingredients
For the Skillet
• Olive oil – Provides fat for sautéing and adds flavor; any cooking oil will work.
• Green bell peppers – Adds sweetness and crunch; substitute with red or yellow peppers for different flavors.
• Frozen riced cauliflower – Increases veggie content and adds texture; fresh riced cauliflower can be substituted if available.
• Mushrooms – Contributes umami flavor and moisture; can be swapped with diced zucchini for a lighter option.
• Kosher salt – Enhances overall flavors; use regular salt but adjust the quantity as needed.
• Ground black pepper – Adds heat and depth; white pepper is a milder alternative.
• Yellow onion – Provides sweetness and aroma; can substitute with shallots.
• Lean ground beef (or bison) – Base protein of the dish for a hearty meal; swap with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; can be substituted with garlic powder (1 teaspoon).
• Worcestershire sauce – Adds savory richness; soy sauce or coconut aminos work for gluten-free options.
For the Cheesy Topping
• Provolone cheese – Melts beautifully and enhances flavor; mozzarella or cheddar can be used instead.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor; nutritional yeast serves as a vegan substitute.
This Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet is not just simple, but brimming with flavor and nutrition—perfect for a delightful family dinner!
How to Make Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet
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Heat the Skillet: Warm a large, high-sided skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in ½ tablespoon of olive oil, allowing it to get hot and ready for cooking.
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Sauté the Peppers: Add thinly sliced green bell peppers to the skillet, seasoning with ¼ teaspoon salt. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they soften and brighten in color.
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Transfer the Peppers: Carefully transfer the sautéed peppers to a bowl, setting them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
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Cook the Veggies: Return the skillet to the heat and add the remaining olive oil, then toss in the riced cauliflower, mushrooms, and diced onion. Cook until everything is tender, about 5-6 minutes.
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Combine the Veggies: Move the cooked veggie mixture to the bowl with the peppers. Now, it’s time for the star of our skillet!
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Brown the Ground Beef: In the same skillet, add the lean ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks for 5-7 minutes, until it’s fully browned.
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Season the Meat: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, remaining salt, and minced garlic, allowing it to cook until the flavors meld and the meat is well-seasoned.
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Mix it All Together: Combine the veggie mixture back into the skillet, stirring everything to blend well; taste and adjust any seasoning as desired.
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Melt the Cheese: Generously sprinkle both cheeses over the top, cover the skillet, and let it melt for about 5 minutes. If you like it extra bubbly, broil for 1-2 minutes until golden and gooey.
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Serve: Delight in this dish by serving it on toasted buns, over baked potatoes, or with a side of rice for a complete meal.
Optional: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra pop of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet?
As your skillet does its magic, the appetite for the perfect supporting dishes beckons, promising to elevate your family dinner experience.
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Toasted Hoagie Rolls: Perfect for holding all that delicious cheesesteak goodness, they add delightful crunch and warmth to each bite.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture complement the savory flavors of the skillet, making for a satisfying sidekick.
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Side Salad with Vinaigrette: A fresh, tangy salad with mixed greens and cherry tomatoes balances the richness of the beef and cheese, lightening up your plate.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, they soak up the savory juices from the skillet, transforming each bite into a flavorful experience.
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Roasted Broccoli: This adds a pop of color and nutrients while offering a pleasing crunch, perfectly contrasting the dish’s creamy textures.
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Pickled Jalapeños or Peppers: Adding a touch of heat, these tangy pops provide a flavor boost that tantalizes the taste buds, keeping the meal exciting.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshing and bright, this drink is a bubbly counterpoint to the rich, hearty components of your skillet dinner; perfect for family gatherings!
These pairing options not only enhance the enjoyment of your Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet, but they also create a well-rounded, satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Make Ahead Options
These Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillets are fantastic for meal prep and can save you precious time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the veggie mixture (bell peppers, onions, riced cauliflower, and mushrooms) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the prepped veggies in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their freshness and vibrant color. When it’s time to cook, just brown the ground beef, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, and then combine the veggie mixture before adding the cheese to melt. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors while cutting your cooking time significantly!
Expert Tips for Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet
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Preheat the Skillet: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding ingredients. This step ensures optimal charring and enhances the flavor of the vegetables.
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Don’t Overcook Veggies: Keep a close eye on the cooking time for your peppers and onions. Overcooking can turn them mushy, so aim for tender yet crisp.
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Season the Meat: Remember to break up the ground beef as it cooks. It helps in ensuring even seasoning and prevents clumps, making your Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet more enjoyable.
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Experiment with Cheeses: While provolone melts beautifully, don’t be afraid to mix cheeses! A blend of mozzarella for stretch and sharp cheddar for flavor can add a delicious twist.
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Add More Greens: Feel free to incorporate additional veggies like spinach or zucchini for a nutrient boost, making this dish even more family-friendly and appealing!
How to Store and Freeze Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through for a quick meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating: To retain the dish’s flavors and textures, reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent drying out.
Airtight Storage: Ensure your leftovers are cooled before sealing to keep them fresh and prevent the growth of bacteria in your Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet.
Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet Variations
Let your creativity shine and customize this dish to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute provolone and Parmesan with vegan cheese for a deliciously creamy option without the dairy.
- Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for lentils or chickpeas, adding delightful protein while keeping it hearty.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes during cooking for a zesty, fiery flavor burst.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or oregano while sautéing the veggies for an aromatic lift.
- Texture Twist: Incorporate some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts on top before serving for an unexpected crunch.
- Mushroom Medley: Replace plain mushrooms with a mix of shiitake, oyster, or portobello mushrooms for deeper, richer flavors.
- Seasonal Veggies: Embrace local produce—add in seasonal favorites like asparagus or sweet corn for freshness.
- Whole Grain Swap: Serve over brown rice or quinoa instead of traditional buns for a wholesome, nutrient-rich alternative.
Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet Recipe FAQs
What type of green peppers should I use?
You can use green bell peppers for their sweetness and crunch, but feel free to swap them with red or yellow peppers for different flavor profiles. Each variety brings its own delightful taste to the dish!
How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, just pop it back in the skillet or microwave until it’s heated through. This way, you’ll get to enjoy your Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet all week long!
Can I freeze the Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet?
Yes, you can! To freeze this delicious dish, let it cool completely then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
What do I do if my veggies are overcooked?
If you find your peppers or onions have turned mushy, don’t worry! You can add fresh, lightly sautéed bell peppers or even some fresh herbs like parsley or basil at the end for a burst of color and flavor. This will also give your dish a lovely crunch!
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! If you have allergies, be cautious with Worcestershire sauce as it may contain anchovies. For a gluten-free option, you can easily substitute it with soy sauce or coconut aminos. Additionally, if you’re cooking for a vegetarian crowd, replace the ground beef with lentils or quinoa for a nutritious alternative.
Can I use fresh riced cauliflower instead of frozen?
Of course! If you have fresh riced cauliflower on hand, it can be used instead of frozen. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, cooking until tender yet still maintaining a delightful texture in your Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet.
Extra Veggie Ground Beef Philly Skillet for Family Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm a large, high-sided skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in ½ tablespoon of olive oil, allowing it to get hot and ready for cooking.
- Add thinly sliced green bell peppers to the skillet, seasoning with ¼ teaspoon salt. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they soften and brighten in color.
- Carefully transfer the sautéed peppers to a bowl, setting them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Return the skillet to the heat and add the remaining olive oil, then toss in the riced cauliflower, mushrooms, and diced onion. Cook until everything is tender, about 5-6 minutes.
- Move the cooked veggie mixture to the bowl with the peppers.
- In the same skillet, add the lean ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks for 5-7 minutes, until it’s fully browned.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, remaining salt, and minced garlic, allowing it to cook until the flavors meld and the meat is well-seasoned.
- Combine the veggie mixture back into the skillet, stirring everything to blend well; taste and adjust any seasoning as desired.
- Generously sprinkle both cheeses over the top, cover the skillet, and let it melt for about 5 minutes. If you like it extra bubbly, broil for 1-2 minutes until golden and gooey.
- Serve on toasted buns, over baked potatoes, or with a side of rice for a complete meal.