Step 1: Heat the Pan - Start by placing your skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and let it heat up for a minute or two until it shimmers.
Step 2: Add the Ground Beef - Carefully add the 1 lb of ground beef to the hot skillet. Allow it to sit for a moment before starting to break it up.
Step 3: Break it Up - Using your spatula or wooden spoon, break the meat into smaller pieces. Stir occasionally, ensuring that it cooks evenly.
Step 4: Season the Meat - As the beef begins to brown, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
Step 5: Cook Through - Continue to cook the beef, breaking it up further as needed, until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes.
Step 6: Drain Excess Fat (if necessary) - Depending on the fat content of your ground beef, you may need to drain some excess fat from the skillet.
Step 7: Serve or Use in Recipes - Your ground beef is now ready to be used in your favorite recipes!