Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re like me and always on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious dinners, then you’re going to absolutely love this ground beef recipe. Ground beef recipes for dinner easy are a lifesaver when you want something hearty without spending all evening in the kitchen. This dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Trust me, the flavors meld beautifully, and the best part? You can customize it to your heart’s content! I’ve made this countless times and it always hits the spot—whether for a cozy family dinner or a get-together with friends. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed, simple dish!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef (use lean for less fat)
- 1 onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best for flavor)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz, undrained)
- 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium if you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or your favorite herbs)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, but oh-so-good on top!)
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! This ground beef recipe is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll have dinner on the table in no time. Here’s how to bring it all together:
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- First, grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm, add the ground beef. Cook it for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and no longer pink. This is where the magic starts!
- Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook those for another 3–4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Oh, the aroma will be irresistible!
- Now, it’s time to add the diced tomatoes (don’t drain them!) along with the beef broth and Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir to combine. The colors and smells are just delightful!
- Season your mixture with salt and pepper to taste. I always say, taste as you go! Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This lets all those flavors mingle together beautifully.
- If you’re feeling cheesy (and who isn’t?), sprinkle the shredded cheese on top during the last couple of minutes. Cover the skillet and allow it to melt—trust me, it makes the dish even more luscious!
And there you have it! Serve this deliciousness over rice or pasta, or just enjoy it on its own. You’re going to love how easy it is to whip up such a comforting meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—dinner is ready in just 30 minutes!
- Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Rich, hearty flavors that everyone in the family will love.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day!
Tips for Success
To make the best ground beef recipes for dinner easy, here are a few tips I swear by! First, don’t rush the browning of the beef; letting it develop a nice color adds depth of flavor. If you like a little kick, feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes when you toss in the garlic. Also, make sure to taste your dish as you go—adjusting the seasoning can elevate the flavor to new heights! Lastly, if you have any leftover fresh herbs, sprinkle those in right at the end for a pop of freshness. You’ve got this!
Variations
One of the best things about this ground beef recipe is its versatility! You can easily switch things up to keep it exciting. Want to add some color and crunch? Toss in chopped bell peppers or zucchini along with the onions! If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some taco seasoning instead of Italian herbs for a fun twist. You can also mix in some cooked rice or quinoa for extra heartiness. Feeling like a comfort-food classic? Stir in some cream of mushroom soup for a creamy texture. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine with these ground beef recipes for dinner easy!
Nutritional Information Section
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this information is just an estimate. Each serving of this delicious ground beef recipe contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
It’s a hearty meal that won’t break the calorie bank, making it a fantastic option for a satisfying dinner!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen ground beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. You can defrost it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave for a quick thaw. Just be cautious with cooking time, as frozen beef will take a bit longer to brown.
What can I serve with this ground beef recipe?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or pasta, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices. If you want to keep it low-carb, serve it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a healthy twist!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare the dish as instructed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
How can I make it spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you add the onions and garlic. You can also stir in some hot sauce right before serving for an extra kick!
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Definitely! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a hearty, meat-free option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for the alternative protein you choose.
For more information on the benefits of ground beef, check out this nutritional overview.
For a delicious side dish, consider making creamy garlic parmesan pasta to complement your meal!
Print
Ground Beef Recipes for Dinner Easy: 5 Hearty Favorites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A simple and delicious ground beef recipe perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Italian seasoning.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If desired, sprinkle cheese on top and cover until melted.
Notes
- Serve with rice or pasta.
- Can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: ground beef recipes for dinner easy
