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In today's fast-paced world, the concept of comfort food has evolved to meet the demands of our busy lives while still delivering the warmth and satisfaction we crave. One-pan meals have surged in popularity, offering a blend of convenience and flavor that appeals to home cooks and families alike. Among these, the Cheesy Beef and Quinoa Skillet Delight stands out as a nutritious yet indulgent dish. This delightful recipe combines protein-rich ground beef, wholesome quinoa, and vibrant vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal that caters to both health-conscious eaters and those seeking comfort on a plate.

Cheesy Beef and Quinoa Skillet Surprise

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition with the Cheesy Beef and Quinoa Skillet Delight. This one-pan meal is not only easy to prepare, but it's also packed with protein-rich ground beef, wholesome quinoa, and a vibrant medley of vegetables. Enjoy a deliciously creamy cheese topping that ties everything together, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings. Simple cleanup allows you to savor your meal and quality time with family and friends. Try this comforting dish to nourish your body and delight your taste buds!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef (85% lean)

1 cup quinoa (thoroughly rinsed and drained)

2 cups beef broth

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (your choice of color), diced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (including juices)

1 cup corn (can be fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

2 green onions, finely sliced (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture for approximately 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and aromatic.

    Brown the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook the beef for about 6-8 minutes, continually breaking it into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon, until it is thoroughly browned and no pink remains. If there is excess grease, drain it from the skillet.

      Incorporate the Quinoa: Stir in the rinsed quinoa along with the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), corn, chili powder, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed most of the liquid and is fluffy and tender.

        Melt the Cheese: After the quinoa is fully cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Gently fold in 1 cup of shredded cheese until it melts and is well-combined. For a delightfully cheesy topping, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the dish, cover the skillet again, and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.

          Serve and Garnish: Using a fork, fluff the skillet mix to combine everything evenly. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and finely sliced green onions for a burst of color and flavor.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 35 mins | 4-6 servings