There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty meal shared with family, isn’t there? I fondly remember those evenings when my kitchen filled with the warm, savory aroma of dinner simmering on the stove. Today, I’m excited to share one of my go-to dinner ideas using ground beef. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also brings everyone together around the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Trust me, once you whip this up, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your household!
What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can easily adjust it to accommodate any dietary needs or preferences. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or trying to sneak in some extra veggies, this recipe has got you covered. Plus, the best part? It’s all made in one pan, which means less cleanup for you! So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef: This is the star of the show! You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or regular for a bit more flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped: A medium onion works perfectly here. It adds sweetness and depth to the dish, so don’t skip it!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a wonderful aroma and taste. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste buds.
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz): These add moisture and a delightful tang. You can use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor, if you like.
- 1 cup beef broth: This enhances the flavor and helps to create a lovely sauce. Low-sodium broth is a great option if you’re watching your salt intake.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables: I love the convenience of frozen veggies! You can use peas, carrots, corn, or whatever mix you prefer.
- 2 cups cooked rice: Brown rice, white rice, or even cauliflower rice can be used here. This will be your comforting base.
- 1 tsp salt: A little seasoning goes a long way! Adjust based on your taste.
- 1 tsp pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds a nice kick. You can always add more later if you like a bit of heat.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs adds a lovely aroma. If you have fresh herbs, like basil or oregano, feel free to use those instead!
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, let’s get that skillet on the stove! Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm, add the ground beef. You’ll want to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes until it’s no longer pink. This is where the magic begins!
- Next, let’s add some flavor. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. The smell will be heavenly, and I promise, it’s a sign you’re on the right track!
- Now, it’s time to stir in those diced tomatoes and beef broth. This combination is what makes the dish so comforting and flavorful. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet to pick up any tasty bits stuck to the pan. Those bits are all flavor, and we want every last one!
- After that, add in the frozen mixed vegetables. Don’t worry if they clump together; they’ll break apart as they heat up. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and give everything a good mix. This is when your kitchen will start to feel like home!
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you see the mixture bubbling gently, you’re doing great! Just keep an eye on it and give it a stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking.
- While that’s simmering, you can prepare your cooked rice. If you haven’t done so already, now’s the perfect time! Use any kind of rice you like—white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Just follow the package instructions, and it’ll be ready to serve in no time.
- Once the beef mixture is all thick and cozy, it’s time to serve! Spoon that delicious mixture over a generous helping of rice. You can even add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for that extra touch of flavor and color. And voilà! You’ve got a comforting, hearty meal that’s ready to enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time!
- Comfort Food Appeal: This dish is the definition of comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners that warm your heart.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the flavors, making it a great choice for everyone around the table.
- Healthy Options: With the ability to swap in leaner meats and fresh vegetables, you can easily tailor this recipe to fit your dietary needs.
- One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet means less cleanup, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal and relax.
Tips for Success
To make this dish turn out perfectly, here are a few handy tips! First, always ensure your skillet is hot before adding the ground beef. This helps to brown the meat nicely and locks in those delicious flavors. If you’re using frozen vegetables, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand; just toss them in directly—they’ll heat up beautifully as they cook!
Also, when seasoning, start with the recommended amounts and taste as you go. You can always add a little more salt or pepper if you like it spicier! And remember, safety first! When browning the beef, keep an eye on it to prevent any splattering. Using a splatter guard can be a great help. Lastly, take your time while simmering—the longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to get creative! If you’re in the mood for a twist, consider swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. They work just as well and still deliver that comforting taste.
You can also play around with vegetables! Instead of frozen mixed veggies, try using fresh bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. Want a little zing? Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, why not experiment with spices? A dash of chili powder or cumin can give it a southwestern flair. You could even turn it into a curry by adding coconut milk and some curry powder. The possibilities are endless, so have fun customizing this dish to suit your taste and dietary needs!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from this delicious ground beef dish is super easy! First, let the mixture cool down for about 30 minutes after cooking. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy those hearty flavors again!
When it’s time to reheat, simply scoop out the portion you want and place it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist, and stir occasionally until heated through—about 5-7 minutes should do the trick. You can also microwave it if you’re in a hurry! Just cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate to prevent splatters, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warm. This way, you’ll keep that comforting taste and texture intact. Enjoy every bite again!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information for this comforting ground beef dish. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Feel free to adjust ingredients, such as using leaner meat or fresh veggies, to suit your dietary needs while enjoying this delicious meal!
FAQ Section
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that still offers wonderful flavor. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have a delicious meal!
What if I don’t have beef broth?
No worries! You can substitute with chicken broth or even vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter flavor. Water can also work in a pinch, but the broth adds a lovely depth to the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it as described in the storage section. It’s perfect for meal prep!
What kind of vegetables can I use?
Feel free to get creative! You can use fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach instead of frozen mixed vegetables. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if you use fresh veggies, as they may need a little longer to soften.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! This dish is not only family-friendly but also perfect for picky eaters. The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Comforting Dinner Ideas Using Ground Beef for Cozy Nights
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting and easy dinner recipe using ground beef.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth.
- Add the frozen mixed vegetables, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Serve over cooked rice.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use fresh vegetables if you prefer, like bell peppers or zucchini.
- For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: dinner ideas using ground beef, easy beef recipes, comfort food
