- Prepare your vegetables: Begin by chopping the onion and green pepper into small, even pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and blend smoothly into the sauce.
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it slowly, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula until it is fully browned and no pink remains.
- Season the meat: Sprinkle the onion powder and garlic powder evenly over the browned beef. Stir well so the seasonings coat the meat thoroughly.
- Add fresh vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green pepper directly into the skillet with the beef. Stir and cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and release their natural sweetness.
- Incorporate the sauces: Pour in both jars of salsa and the small jar of traditional Ragu sauce. Stir slowly until everything is fully combined and the mixture becomes uniform.
- Simmer gently: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the flavors to blend.
- Adjust to taste: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. You may add salt, pepper, or additional spices based on your preference.
- Rest before serving: Once done, remove the skillet from heat and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and improves overall texture.
Serving and Storage:
This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It can be spooned over cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. It also works well as a filling for tacos, burritos, or stuffed peppers. For a lighter option, serve it alongside steamed vegetables or over a baked potato.
When it comes to storage, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Tips:
- Choose your salsa heat level carefully. Mild salsa keeps the dish family-friendly, while medium or hot adds a spicy kick.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the mixture simmer longer or partially cover the pan.
- Drain excess grease from the beef after browning if desired, especially when using higher-fat meat.
- Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more texture and nutrition.
- This recipe tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Conclusion:
The hearty beef and salsa comfort skillet is proof that simple ingredients can create a deeply satisfying meal. With minimal preparation and straightforward cooking steps, it delivers big flavor without demanding hours in the kitchen. Its flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of serving styles, diets, and occasions.
Whether you are feeding a hungry family, preparing meals for the week, or just craving something warm and filling, this recipe offers reliability and comfort. Once you try it, it is likely to become a regular part of your cooking rotation—easy to remember, easy to make, and easy to love.
FAQ:
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken can be substituted for ground beef. Keep in mind that leaner meats may require additional seasoning for depth of flavor.
Is this dish spicy?
The spice level depends entirely on the salsa you choose. Using mild salsa results in a gentle, family-friendly flavor, while hotter salsa increases heat.
Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely. This dish stores and reheats very well, making it ideal for advance preparation or meal prep.
What can I serve this with?
It pairs well with pasta, rice, bread, tortillas, or even on its own as a hearty bowl-style meal.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the beef and vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.