Ground Beef Skillet with Corn

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and delicious skillet meal that brings together the rich flavors of ground beef and sweet corn, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Penelope Dawson

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2025-12-25T17:13:06.878Z

This Ground Beef Skillet with Corn is a family favorite. It's quick to make, packed with flavor, and is a great way to use pantry staples.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Savory ground beef combined with sweet corn for a balanced flavor
  • One-pan meal for easy cleanup
  • Quick cooking time, perfect for busy nights

A Skillet Meal for Every Occasion

Ground Beef Skillet with Corn is not just a meal; it's a solution for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence. With its simplicity and ease of preparation, this dish can be whipped up in no time, making it ideal for families or anyone on the go. Whether you’re coming home from work or wrapping up a weekend of activities, this one-pan wonder ensures a delicious meal without the hassle of extensive cleanup.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While it features ground beef and corn as the star ingredients, you can easily customize it. Add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini, or swap the ground beef for turkey or plant-based meat for a healthier option. This adaptability allows you to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Flavorful Ingredients That Shine

The combination of savory ground beef and sweet corn creates a delightful balance of flavors that is hard to resist. The addition of spices like chili powder and cumin elevates the dish, infusing it with warmth and depth. These seasonings not only enhance the taste but also contribute to the aromatic experience of cooking, filling your kitchen with inviting scents that will draw everyone to the table.

Using fresh ingredients, such as chopped onions and minced garlic, adds a layer of freshness that pre-packaged meals often lack. When you cook with quality ingredients, you not only enhance the flavor but also boost the nutritional value of your meal. This recipe encourages you to be mindful of what you consume, promoting a healthier lifestyle while still enjoying comfort food.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to streamline your meal planning, this Ground Beef Skillet with Corn is an excellent choice. It can be easily doubled or halved to suit your needs, making it a flexible option for meal prepping. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat and enjoy a wholesome meal without the fuss.

Moreover, this dish freezes well, allowing you to prepare a larger batch and save it for those days when cooking feels like a chore. Portion it out, label it, and pop it in the freezer. On a busy day, you can have a homemade meal ready in minutes, proving that convenience and flavor can go hand in hand.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready to go.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious skillet meal.

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

Serve

If desired, sprinkle with shredded cheese and let it melt. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy!

Make sure to serve hot and enjoy your meal!

Tips for Perfecting Your Skillet Meal

To ensure that your Ground Beef Skillet with Corn turns out perfectly every time, consider browning the meat in batches if you're making a larger quantity. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents the meat from steaming, resulting in better flavor and texture. Don't rush the cooking process; let the beef develop a rich color before adding your vegetables.

Another tip is to taste the mixture as you go. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, adding more chili powder for heat or extra salt for flavor enhancement. Remember, the cooking process allows for personal touches, so feel free to make it your own!

Serving Suggestions

This hearty skillet dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside warm tortillas for a complete meal. Alternatively, you can enjoy it on its own or with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the beef and corn.

For those who enjoy a little extra crunch, consider topping your skillet meal with crushed tortilla chips or serving it with a side of guacamole. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also provide a delightful texture contrast, making your meal even more enjoyable.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter option.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the skillet for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it with rice or tortillas for a complete meal.

Ground Beef Skillet with Corn

A hearty and delicious skillet meal that brings together the rich flavors of ground beef and sweet corn, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Penelope Dawson

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  3. 1 medium onion, chopped
  4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  5. 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
  6. 1 tsp chili powder
  7. 1 tsp cumin
  8. Salt and pepper to taste
  9. 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
  10. Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 02

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Step 03

Stir in the corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

Step 04

If desired, sprinkle with shredded cheese and let it melt. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 30g