I remember one evening when I was looking for a quick, healthy dinner that I could make with what I had on hand. I had some ground beef, a bunch of kale in the fridge, and a few pantry staples. As I thought about what I could make, I realized that ground beef and kale would make a perfect combination for a flavorful skillet meal. The earthy taste of kale paired with the savory beef would create a simple yet satisfying dish. It turned out just as I had hoped—easy, healthy, and packed with flavor. Since then, it’s become one of my go-to recipes, especially when I need something quick and filling.
This dish has become a regular part of my weeknight rotation. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a meal that doesn’t require much time to prepare, and it’s easy to make adjustments based on what ingredients you have. The beef provides protein, while the kale adds fiber and important vitamins. The combination of the two makes for a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
Where Did You Learn This Recipe?
I came up with this recipe after experimenting in the kitchen. It was one of those days when I had some ground beef in the fridge and was trying to think of a healthy yet hearty dinner. I had some fresh kale left over from a salad I made earlier in the week, and I thought, “Why not use it in a skillet dish?” It was the perfect solution, and it’s now a favorite in our house. I love how flexible it is—whether I’m adding extra vegetables or spices, it always tastes great.
Why Beef and Kale Skillet
Ground beef and kale make a fantastic pairing. The beef is rich and flavorful, while the kale is slightly bitter, adding balance to the dish. Cooking them together in a skillet makes for a simple, one-pan meal that’s quick to prepare and easy to clean up. It’s one of those recipes that’s incredibly satisfying without being too heavy. Plus, it’s a great way to get more greens into your diet. The beauty of this recipe is that you can modify it based on what you like, whether you want to add garlic, onion, or even a little cheese to bring it all together.
What is Beef and Kale Skillet Made of?
This dish comes together with a few basic ingredients, making it simple yet packed with flavor:
- Ground beef – The main protein for this dish. You can use any lean ground meat, but ground beef adds a rich flavor.
- Kale – Fresh kale is used in this recipe. It adds fiber and nutrients and wilts beautifully when cooked.
- Olive oil – Used for sautéing and adding richness to the dish.
- Garlic – Adds a nice aromatic flavor that complements the beef and kale.
- Onion – A great addition for added sweetness and flavor.
- Salt and pepper – Simple seasonings that bring everything together.
- Optional: Add chili flakes for a bit of spice or grated cheese for extra richness.
What to Have with Beef and Kale Skillet
The beef and kale skillet can stand alone as a meal, but it pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Rice – Serve it over steamed rice or quinoa to make it more filling.
- Potatoes – Mashed or roasted potatoes work great alongside this skillet.
- Bread – A nice piece of crusty bread would be perfect for sopping up any juices from the skillet.
- Salad – A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the beef.
Is Beef and Kale Skillet Healthy?
Yes, this dish is a healthy option. Ground beef provides a good source of protein, and kale is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber. This dish is low in carbs and high in nutrients, making it a great choice for a balanced meal. By using lean ground beef and opting for minimal added fat, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. If you want to make it even lighter, you can use ground turkey or chicken in place of the beef.
Kitchen Equipment
You’ll need:
- A large skillet or frying pan for cooking the beef and kale
- A cutting board and a knife for chopping the kale and onion
- A spoon or spatula for stirring
- A measuring spoon for the seasonings
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken)
- 4 cups fresh kale, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red chili flakes or grated cheese for garnish
How to Make Beef and Kale Skillet
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by chopping the kale into bite-sized pieces, removing any tough stems. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes)—season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the Onion and Garlic:
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Cook the Kale:
- Add the chopped kale to the skillet and stir it into the beef mixture. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the kale wilts and softens. Stir occasionally to make sure everything is evenly cooked.
- Finish and Serve:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper. If you like, you can sprinkle some grated cheese or red chili flakes on top for extra flavor. Serve hot, either on its own or with your favorite side dish.
Tips
- Use lean ground meat – To keep the dish lighter, use lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken.
- Add more veggies – You can easily add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to increase the flavor and nutrition.
- Make it spicy – For a little kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use pre-chopped kale – If you’re in a rush, you can buy pre-chopped kale to save time.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen kale?
Yes, you can use frozen kale if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.
3. Can I add grains to this dish?
Absolutely! This dish pairs wonderfully with quinoa, rice, or even couscous for a heartier meal.
Conclusion
This easy beef and kale skillet is the perfect dish for a quick, healthy dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite side, this skillet meal is sure to become a weeknight favorite in your household. Enjoy!
Ground Beef and Kale Skillet Recipe
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A large skillet or frying pan for cooking the beef and kale
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A cutting board and knife for chopping the kale and onion
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A spoon or spatula for stirring
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A measuring spoon for the seasonings
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken)
- 4 cups fresh kale, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red chili flakes or grated cheese for garnish
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Begin by chopping the kale into bite-sized pieces, removing any tough stems. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
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Add the chopped kale to the skillet and stir it into the beef mixture. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the kale wilts and softens. Stir occasionally to make sure everything is evenly cooked.
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Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper. If you like, you can sprinkle some grated cheese or red chili flakes on top for extra flavor. Serve hot, either on its own or with your favorite side dish.
