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Barley Beef Skillet

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A hearty one-pan skillet meal made with lean ground beef, wholesome pearl barley, and tender vegetables simmered in a savory tomato and broth base for a comforting and nutritious dinner.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef (about 95% lean)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) reduced-sodium beef broth
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 small carrots, peeled and chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 1 small tomato, seeded and chopped
  • 1 small zucchini, chopped
  • 1 cup medium pearl barley
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Place a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and chopped onion to the skillet and cook while breaking up the meat until the beef is browned and the onion becomes soft, about 6–8 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and water and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  5. Add the chopped carrots, chopped tomato, zucchini, pearl barley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Stir well to evenly distribute the barley and vegetables.
  7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 45–50 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Continue cooking until the barley is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Notes

  • Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent the barley from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
  • If the mixture becomes too thick while cooking, add a small splash of broth or water.
  • Quick barley can be used instead of pearl barley but will cook in about 20–25 minutes.
  • You can add spinach or kale during the final 5 minutes of cooking for extra vegetables.
  • This dish stores well and is excellent for meal prep.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/barley-beef-skillet/