Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that sometimes life gets super hectic, and that’s when easy recipes using ground beef become my absolute lifesaver. Seriously, there’s something magical about ground beef; it’s versatile, cook-friendly, and oh-so-delicious! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve relied on it for quick dinners that please the whole family. Whether I’m whipping up a comforting skillet meal or a hearty taco night, ground beef is my go-to ingredient. Trust me, once you try these easy recipes, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
Ingredients List
For this easy ground beef recipe, you’ll need some simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious meal. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 1 lb ground beef (I usually go for lean, but you can choose what you like!)
- 1 onion, chopped (don’t forget to chop it nice and fine for the best flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic makes everything better, trust me!)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), with juice (for that juicy goodness)
- 1 cup beef broth (this adds so much depth to the dish!)
- 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1 tsp pepper (freshly cracked if you can, it makes a difference)
- 1 tsp chili powder (for a little kick, but feel free to adjust based on your preference)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (my favorite part—who doesn’t love melty cheese on top?)
Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to create something wonderful!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! This part is super simple, and I promise you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Here’s how to whip it all up:
- Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, throw in that pound of ground beef. Cook it, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s nicely browned—about 5 to 7 minutes. Oh, the smell of sizzling beef is just heavenly!
- Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together for another 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. It’s at this point that your kitchen will start to smell like a cozy restaurant!
- Now it’s time to stir in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juice and the beef broth. This is where the magic happens! Give everything a good stir to combine.
- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and chili powder. Let it simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Finally, top your creation with the shredded cheese, cover for a couple of minutes until melted, and voilà! You’re ready to serve!
Enjoy this hearty dish on its own or pair it with rice or bread for a complete meal. You’ll be amazed at how easy and satisfying this is!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: You can whip this up in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Easy cooking steps: No complicated techniques here; it’s all straightforward and simple.
- Delicious flavor: The combination of spices, beef, and melty cheese creates an irresistible dish that everyone will love.
- Versatile: Serve it on its own, with rice, or in tacos—it’s adaptable to your taste!
- Family-friendly: This meal is sure to please both kids and adults, making it a hit at the dinner table!
Tips for Success
To really nail this recipe, I’ve got a few pro tips that can take your dish from good to great! First off, opting for lean ground beef not only cuts down on fat but also helps keep your meal lighter without sacrificing flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some chopped bell peppers or spinach when you add the onions; they add extra nutrition and color! Also, don’t hesitate to play with the spices—try adding a pinch of cumin for a different twist. And remember, let it simmer long enough to let those flavors develop; patience is key!
Variations
One of the best things about this easy ground beef recipe is how adaptable it is! If you’re in the mood for something a little different, why not switch up the spices? Try adding some Italian herbs like oregano and basil for a cozy Italian twist. You can also experiment with different kinds of cheese—pepper jack adds a nice kick, while mozzarella gives it that classic pizza vibe. Feeling veggie-happy? Toss in some chopped zucchini or mushrooms along with the onion for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity run wild!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for one serving of this delicious easy ground beef recipe:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g (Saturated Fat: 8g, Unsaturated Fat: 10g, Trans Fat: 0g)
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g (Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 4g)
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But hey, knowing you’re nourishing yourself with a hearty meal makes it even better, right?
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so tasty!), storing them is a breeze! Simply let the dish cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, feel free to freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and it should keep for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short bursts, but be careful not to dry it out. Enjoy every last bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully in this recipe if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the cooking time might vary slightly.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
No worries! You can substitute with chicken broth or even water if you’re in a pinch. Just remember, the broth adds a lot of flavor!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This meal is perfect for meal prep. Just make it ahead of time, let it cool, and store in the fridge. Reheat when you’re ready to eat!
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you love heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix! You can also increase the chili powder to pack a punch.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure any broth or canned ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free, and you’re all set!
For more delicious recipes, check out this beef pasta delight or this ground beef casserole!
Print
Recipes Ground Beef Easy: 5 Delicious Meals to Devour
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Easy recipes using ground beef for quick meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and chili powder.
- Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Top with shredded cheese before serving.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add vegetables.
- Serve with rice or bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: easy ground beef recipes