Oh, let me tell you about the magic of ground beef recipes! Seriously, there’s just something about the versatility of ground beef that makes it a staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re throwing together a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with a hearty meal, recipes with ground beef are always a win. I love how this dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for those busy evenings when I want to whip up something delicious without too much fuss.
My family absolutely devours this dish! It’s one of those recipes that brings everyone to the table, and we often end up sharing stories and laughter over our plates. Plus, it’s so easy to customize—everyone can add their favorite toppings or sides. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a beloved go-to in your home, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious ground beef masterpiece! Each ingredient plays a special role in bringing out those rich flavors that make this dish so comforting and satisfying.
- 1 lb ground beef: This will be the star of the show, providing that classic beefy flavor and hearty texture.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the dish. Make sure to chop it finely so it cooks evenly!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings a wonderful aroma and flavor that just can’t be beat. The more, the merrier, if you ask me!
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz): These contribute juiciness and a nice tang. Go for the fire-roasted variety if you want an extra kick!
- 1 cup beef broth: This will add moisture and richness to your dish. Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine too!
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Just a touch of olive oil helps sauté the onions and garlic to perfection, bringing out their flavors.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning the beef and balancing out the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a bit of warmth and spice, but feel free to adjust to your taste!
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A lovely blend that brings a hint of herbaceousness to the dish. You can use fresh herbs if you have them on hand!
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! This ground beef recipe is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be a pro in no time!
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat the Olive Oil: Start by heating that lovely tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sauté, but not so hot that it smokes. Just about 2 minutes should do it!
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Once the oil is shimmering, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Oh, the smell! It’s heavenly.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Now, add in the ground beef. Break it up with your spoon and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned. You want to make sure there’s no pink left; we’re looking for that delicious brown color!
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the can of diced tomatoes and that cup of beef broth. This is where the magic really happens! The mixture will start bubbling away, making it even more enticing.
- Season it Up: Sprinkle in your salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir to combine everything, and let those flavors mingle for a minute.
- Simmer: Lower the heat and let this simmer for about 15 minutes. This is the perfect time to let the flavors deepen and meld together. Keep an eye on it, and give it a stir occasionally!
- Serve Warm: After the simmering, it’s time to serve! Ladle your delicious ground beef mixture into bowls and enjoy it warm. You’re gonna love it!
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into each serving of this delicious ground beef dish! It’s always great to know what you’re putting into your body, right? Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
This recipe is not only satisfying but also fits nicely into a low-calorie diet. So, you can enjoy it guilt-free! Plus, the protein content makes it a great option for keeping you full and energized throughout your day. Enjoy every bite knowing it’s good for you, too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: With the savory combination of beef, tomatoes, and spices, every bite is packed with deliciousness!
- Family-Friendly: It’s a meal that pleases everyone at the table—kids and adults alike will love it!
- Low-Calorie: At just 250 calories per serving, you can enjoy this hearty dish without the guilt.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!
- Great for Leftovers: It stores well, so you can enjoy it again for lunch or dinner the next day.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to whip up this delicious ground beef dish, here are a few pro tips to ensure it turns out just right every time!
- Check the Beef for Doneness: When browning the ground beef, make sure there’s no pink remaining. This not only ensures it’s safe to eat, but it also gives you that rich, savory flavor.
- Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with the seasonings! Taste your dish before serving and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Sometimes, a little extra seasoning can elevate the flavors to new heights.
- Mind the Simmer: While simmering, keep an eye on the mixture. If it looks too thick, feel free to add a splash more beef broth to keep it saucy and delicious!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and onion instead of pre-packaged. The freshness truly makes a difference in flavor!
- Make it a Meal: Consider adding in some veggies like bell peppers or spinach to the mix! They’ll add nutrition and color, making your dish even more appealing.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, try repurposing them! Use the mixture as a filling for tacos, stuffed peppers, or even a hearty pasta sauce. Trust me, the possibilities are endless!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a ground beef masterpiece that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you want to change things up and keep this ground beef recipe fresh, I’ve got some fun variations for you! It’s amazing how a few small tweaks can create a totally different vibe. Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Spice It Up: Want a little kick? Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the pan while sautéing the onions and garlic. It’ll bring a whole new level of heat to the dish!
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms with the onions and garlic. Not only will you add color, but you’ll also sneak in some extra nutrients!
- Herbaceous Twist: Swap out the Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme. Fresh herbs really brighten up the dish and give it a garden-fresh taste.
- Cheesy Delight: For a creamy, comforting addition, stir in some shredded cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a sprinkle of parmesan would be fantastic!
- Southwestern Flair: Change up the spices and add in some cumin and smoked paprika for a southwestern twist. You could even top it with avocado and serve it with tortilla chips!
- Asian-Inspired: Use soy sauce instead of salt and add some ginger along with the garlic. Finish it off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions for a delightful Asian flair.
- Make It a Casserole: After cooking, transfer your beef mixture into a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes or pasta, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole!
These variations are just the start! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. The sky’s the limit when it comes to ground beef, and every change can lead to a new favorite dish! Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve cooked up this delicious ground beef dish, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it! Trust me, a great side can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions that pair perfectly with this hearty recipe:
- Steamed Rice: A classic choice! Fluffy white or brown rice absorbs all those savory juices beautifully, making every bite a delight.
- Pasta: Serve it over your favorite pasta, like penne or spaghetti. The ground beef and sauce make a fantastic topping for a comforting plate of noodles!
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. I love to serve it with a bit of butter for that extra indulgence!
- Salad: A fresh green salad with crisp veggies adds a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the beef. Try a simple vinaigrette to keep it light and refreshing.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit! They provide a comforting, hearty base that pairs perfectly with the savory beef mixture.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a healthier option, serve with a side of roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or broccoli. They add a nice crunch and extra nutrients!
- Tortillas: Make it a fun taco night by serving the beef mixture in warm tortillas with toppings like cheese, salsa, and avocado. Everyone loves a good build-your-own taco bar!
Feel free to mix and match! The beauty of this ground beef dish is its versatility, so let your creativity shine through with your sides. Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to savor those moments around the table with your loved ones!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about what to do with those delicious leftovers! If you find yourself with extra ground beef goodness, you’ll want to store it properly to keep that flavor intact. Here’s how to do it right:
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation and keeps everything fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label it if you’re like me and love to keep track of what’s in there!
- Freezing for Later: If you want to save it for a longer period, you can freeze the ground beef mixture! Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, making it easy to grab just what you need later. It should be good for about 2-3 months. Just remember to date the bags so you don’t forget about it!
When it comes time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is a breeze:
- Microwave: Place your desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Keep an eye on it to avoid overheating!
- Stovetop: For best results, I recommend reheating on the stovetop. Just toss the leftover beef mixture in a pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through. You might want to add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it from drying out.
- Oven: If you’re reheating a larger batch, you can place it in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
And voilà! You now have the perfect way to store and reheat your ground beef dish, ensuring it tastes just as good the second time around. Enjoy those tasty leftovers, and happy eating!
Print
Recipes Ground Beef: 7 Comforting Dishes You Will Love
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A simple and delicious ground beef recipe for a quick meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add ground beef, cook until browned.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth.
- Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Serve with rice or pasta.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: ground beef recipes, easy beef dishes, quick dinner ideas