Description
A hearty, protein-packed one-skillet stir fry featuring ground beef, bell peppers, corn, and black beans in a smoky, savory sauce. Perfect for meal prep and ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef (90/10)
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large bell peppers (red and green mix), diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup (150g) frozen corn kernels, thawed
- 1 can (15 oz / 425g) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup (120ml) unsweetened tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup (60ml) beef broth
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and chop bell peppers and onions into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic. Rinse and drain black beans and thaw corn.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Brown thoroughly for 5-7 minutes, then drain excess fat if necessary.
- Push beef to one side or mix in. Add diced onions and peppers to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until onions are translucent and peppers soften. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in corn and black beans. Mix with beef and cook for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
- In a small bowl, whisk together chili powder, smoked paprika, tomato sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour over the beef and vegetable mixture.
- Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers for storage.
Notes
For best results, ensure the beef is browned properly for flavor. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth; if too thin, simmer longer. This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Variations include using ground turkey or adding spinach at the end.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 container (approx.
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 6
- Protein: 25
Keywords: cowboy stir fry, meal prep, one skillet, ground beef recipe, healthy lunch, easy dinner, gluten-free