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high protein beef quinoa skillet

High Protein Beef Quinoa Skillet

This high protein beef quinoa skillet is a simple one-pan dinner made with lean ground beef, fluffy quinoa, and fresh broccoli. It’s filling, balanced, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want real food without extra work.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lean ground beef 90% lean
  • 1 cup dry quinoa rinsed
  • 2 cups beef broth or water
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¾ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  3. Add chopped onion. Cook for 2–3 minutes until soft.
  4. Stir in garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Add rinsed quinoa to the skillet. Stir well so it coats with the beef and spices.
  6. Pour in beef broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Cover the skillet. Cook for 12–15 minutes until quinoa is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  8. Add broccoli florets. Cover and cook for 3–4 minutes until just tender.
  9. Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  10. Serve warm straight from the skillet.

Notes

  • Rinse the quinoa well before cooking. It helps remove bitterness.
  • Don’t overcook the broccoli. You want it bright green, not soft and dull.
  • This dish reheats well and tastes great the next day.
  • You can swap broccoli for zucchini or bell peppers if needed.