A Slow-Simmered Winter Skillet for North Dakota Nights

January in North Dakota… need I say more?!

This January has been a little extreme. We started the month talking about how lucky we’d been with winter, and then, bam, North Dakota reminded us exactly who’s in charge. Record cold. Wind that cuts right through you. The kind of weather that makes even quick trips outside feel like a commitment.

During stretches like this, I feel the strong pull to stay in and stay warm. Cozy socks, a hot drink nearby, and food that actually comforts, not just fills you up. I don’t want anything complicated. I want something hearty and grounding.

That’s where meals like this come in.

There is truly nothing better on bitter cold days than a one-pot meal that brings together protein, vegetables, and carbs all in one place. It warms the kitchen while it cooks, uses simple ingredients, and leaves you feeling nourished and satisfied.

This is the kind of winter meal that feels right for January in North Dakota with an easy, comforting, and meant to be eaten slowly while the cold stays outside where it belongs.

Cozy Winter Skillet

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or ground sausage (or a mix with a little hot sausage would be good!)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups cooked rice or egg noodles

• 1 can (14–15 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1–1½ cups beef broth

• 1 cup frozen or fresh green beans or peas

• Koselig Kitchen Oh Geez, It’s Good Seasoning Salt, to taste

• Koselig Kitchen Ope Sorry! It’s A Little Spicy Seasoning Blend, optional

• Butter or olive oil

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt a bit of butter or warm olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and fragrant.

2. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Season generously with Oh Geez, It’s Good Seasoning Salt.

3. Stir in the garlic and let it cook just until fragrant.

4. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and cooked rice or noodles. Stir to combine.

5. Reduce heat and let the skillet simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together.

6. Stir in green beans or peas and heat through.

7. Finish with Ope Sorry! It’s A Little Spicy if you like a little warmth that lingers.

8. And add a sprinkle or 2 of cheese to make it extra comforting!

As we finish out this bitter cold North Dakota January, I hope you find time to enjoy the moments. It is a time for staying in, reading a book, watching a movie, playing games, eating comfort food, and just generally wintering. It's okay to find solace and rest during this season in preparation for the coming spring. 

So take the time for a bit of extra cozy now.