Let’s be real—after a long day, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I absolutely love easy dinner recipes with ground beef! They’re not only quick to whip up, but they also pack so much flavor. I remember one busy week when my schedule was packed, and I needed something simple yet satisfying. I turned to this recipe, and it quickly became a family favorite! The combination of tender ground beef, hearty pasta, and zesty tomatoes creates a delicious dish that’s ready in no time. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this one in your back pocket for those hectic nights when you need to get dinner on the table fast!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious meal:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked pasta
These ingredients come together so beautifully, and you might even have most of them on hand already! It’s like a hug in a bowl, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
How to Prepare Instructions
Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to whip up this delightful dish:
- First things first, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to break it up with a spatula as it cooks!
- Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant. Wow, that smell is heavenly!
- Next, stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juice, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Give everything a good mix to combine. Yum!
- Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. This step is key for letting all those flavors meld together. While it simmers, you can daydream about how delicious this will be!
- Once the time’s up, season with salt and pepper to taste. Just a little sprinkle goes a long way!
- Finally, gently fold in the cooked pasta until everything is well coated. It’ll be so comforting and satisfying!
- Serve hot, and get ready for compliments—trust me, they’ll be coming your way!
And there you have it! Easy as pie, right? I can already picture you enjoying this with your loved ones!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights!
- Simple ingredients: With just a handful of everyday items, you’ll likely have everything you need already in your pantry.
- Flavorful and satisfying: The combination of ground beef, zesty tomatoes, and Italian seasoning creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor!
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty meal—it’s a hit at my dinner table!
- Versatile for leftovers: This dish is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying again!
Honestly, I can’t get enough of this recipe! It’s not just about the meal; it’s about the memories you’ll create around the table with family and friends. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
Want to make sure your dish turns out absolutely perfect? Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure you have the best experience cooking this easy dinner recipe:
- Brown the beef properly: Make sure to cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. This not only adds flavor but also gives the dish that delicious, savory depth. Don’t rush this step!
- Don’t skip on seasoning: Taste as you go! A pinch of salt and pepper can make a world of difference, so season the beef well and adjust to your preference.
- Play with pasta: While I love using traditional pasta, feel free to switch it up! Whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) work great, too. Just remember to adjust your cooking time if you go with a different type!
- Add veggies: If you’ve got some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms lying around, toss them in! They’ll add extra nutrition and flavor, and it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens.
- Let it simmer: Don’t rush the simmering stage! Letting the flavors meld for those 10 minutes is key to making this dish truly delicious.
- Top it off: If you’re feeling fancy, top your pasta with some freshly grated cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving. It adds a beautiful touch!
These little tricks are my go-to for making sure every bite is as tasty as can be. I can’t wait for you to give them a try and make this dish your own! Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Curious about the nutritional goodness packed in this dish? Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving, but keep in mind that the values can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 25g
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied. It’s a great option for a balanced meal, especially on those busy nights! Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re fueling your body with good stuff!
FAQ Section
Got some questions? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear about this easy dinner recipe:
Can I use ground turkey instead?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic, leaner option if you want to switch things up. Just keep in mind that it may cook a bit differently, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. It’s still going to be delicious, I promise!
What can I serve with this dish?
This hearty pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread. You could even whip up some steamed veggies for a pop of color and nutrition. It’s all about making it your own!
How can I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which I doubt because it’s so good!), just let the dish cool down and transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can definitely prep this dish in advance! Just follow the cooking instructions, and then store the finished dish in the refrigerator. It’s actually great for meal prep since the flavors get even better after sitting for a day. Just reheat it when you’re ready to eat!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need some extra tips. I want to make sure you have the best experience cooking this up!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this delicious ground beef pasta dish ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! Here are some of my favorite pairings that will elevate your meal:
- Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad is the perfect complement to this hearty dish. Try a simple mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. It adds a refreshing crunch!
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s great for scooping up any leftover sauce, and who doesn’t love that garlicky goodness?
- Steamed Vegetables: Add some color and nutrition with a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots. They’re quick to prepare and round out the meal beautifully!
- Roasted Potatoes: For a heartier side, try some crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs. They’re always a hit and pair wonderfully with the pasta.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: If you’re feeling a little indulgent, whip up some cheesy garlic biscuits. They’re fluffy, buttery, and oh-so-delicious with the saucy pasta!
These sides not only complement the flavors of the main dish but also make your dinner spread look absolutely inviting. Trust me, your family will be raving about this meal long after the plates are cleared! Enjoy mixing and matching to find your perfect combo!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve got some leftovers? Lucky you! This dish is just as delicious the next day, so let’s make sure you store it right to keep all that flavor intact. Here’s how to do it:
- Cooling: First, let your pasta dish cool down to room temperature. This prevents condensation inside the container, which can make it soggy.
- Containers: Transfer the cooled pasta into an airtight container. I love using glass containers because they’re easy to clean and don’t retain smells, but any airtight option will work!
- Refrigeration: Store your leftovers in the fridge, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label it if you’ve got a lot going on in there—trust me, it helps!
- Freezing (optional): If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the pasta dish. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. It should last for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now, let’s talk reheating. You want to bring back that comforting goodness:
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, pop a serving in the microwave. I recommend adding a splash of beef broth or water to keep it from drying out. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until it’s warmed through.
- Stovetop: If you have a bit more time, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or a drizzle of olive oil to keep it moist and stir occasionally until it’s heated through.
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your delicious ground beef pasta just as much as the first time around. Happy eating!
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Easy Dinner Recipes with Ground Beef: 7 Simple Comforts
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and quick dinner recipe using ground beef.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked pasta
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Italian seasoning.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix in cooked pasta.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with a side salad.
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Top with grated cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: easy dinner recipes with ground beef
