Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional; peas and carrots work well)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
  • ¼ cup milk or beef broth (optional, for creaminess)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add diced onion and bell pepper; sauté for 3–4 minutes until tender. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef to the skillet; break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Stir in smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix in frozen mixed vegetables and cook until heated through.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the beef mixture. If using, drizzle milk or broth over the cheese. Cover the skillet and let simmer until cheese is melted, about 3–5 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and serve immediately as-is or over a bed of rice or pasta.