There’s something truly special about comfort food, isn’t there? It wraps you up like a warm blanket on a chilly day. I remember the evenings spent with family around the dinner table, sharing laughter and stories while savoring hearty meals. One dish that always brings back those cozy memories is my go-to ground beef recipe. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for family gatherings. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this delightful chopped meat recipe that everyone will love. You won’t believe how easy it is to prepare, yet it delivers on flavor and heartiness. Trust me, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend get-together, this dish will have your loved ones coming back for seconds. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it simmers is simply irresistible! So, grab your skillet, and let’s dive into making this comforting meal that’s sure to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this delicious chopped meat recipe with ground beef. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef: This is the star of the dish! Look for good quality beef, preferably lean, to keep it from being too greasy while still packing in that meaty flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped: A sweet onion adds a lovely depth of flavor. Don’t worry if chopping makes you tear up a bit; it happens to the best of us!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings an aromatic punch to the dish. If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add an extra clove or two.
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz): These add moisture and a touch of acidity, balancing out the richness of the beef. You can use diced tomatoes with herbs for added flavor!
- 1 cup beef broth: This enhances the savory profile. You can opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Just enough to season the dish. Adjust according to your taste preference.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground gives the best flavor, but pre-ground works too!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings warmth and earthiness. You can also use your favorite fresh herbs if you have them on hand.
- 2 cups cooked pasta: Any pasta shape you like works well! This makes the dish heartier and satisfying, perfect for a family meal.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, you’re all set to create a comforting masterpiece that will warm everyone’s hearts!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this comforting dish to life! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the pound of ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if necessary; we want the flavors to shine, not swim in grease!
- Add the onion and garlic: Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook these together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. This step adds a wonderful aromatic base to your dish.
- Stir in the tomatoes and broth: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with the beef broth. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any tasty browned bits—you want all that flavor!
- Season it up: Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir to combine. Trust me, the aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
- Let it simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows all those lovely flavors to meld together. You might want to stir it occasionally, just to keep an eye on it.
- Mix in the pasta: Finally, add in the 2 cups of cooked pasta. Stir gently until everything is heated through, about 2-3 minutes. If it looks a little thick, you can add a splash more of beef broth to loosen it up.
- Serve and enjoy: Dish it out warm, and enjoy every comforting bite. You can garnish with some fresh herbs if you like, but it’s just as delicious on its own!
And there you have it! A simple yet hearty meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or even just a cozy night in. Enjoy the process—cooking should always be fun!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can have this comforting dish on the table in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: With its hearty ingredients and delicious flavors, this meal is sure to please everyone, from picky eaters to food lovers.
- Versatile: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Ground turkey, extra veggies, or even different pasta shapes work beautifully!
- Comforting and Satisfying: There’s something about this dish that wraps you in warmth, perfect for those chilly nights or when you need a little extra comfort.
- Make Ahead: This dish stores well, so you can enjoy leftovers the next day, saving you time and effort!
Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home. You won’t be able to resist going back for seconds!
Tips for Success
Getting the best out of this chopped meat recipe is all about the little details! Here are my top tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:
- Watch the heat: When browning the ground beef, keep it at medium heat. Too high, and you might burn it; too low, and it can steam instead of brown.
- Drain excess fat: After browning the beef, don’t forget to drain any fat if there’s too much—nobody wants a greasy dish!
- Simmer gently: When you let the mixture simmer, a low heat will help the flavors meld without drying out the meat. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking.
- Taste as you go: Don’t hesitate to taste the dish while cooking. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference—everyone’s taste is a bit different!
- Store properly: If you have leftovers, let the dish cool before transferring it to an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for your next meal!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also a true comfort for your family!
Variations
One of the best things about this chopped meat recipe is its versatility! Here are some delightful variations you can try:
- Ground Turkey: For a leaner option, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey. It’s just as tasty and significantly reduces the fat content!
- Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add some of your favorite veggies! Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can add color and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
- Different Pasta Shapes: Experiment with different pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta. Each will bring a unique texture to the dish!
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño when you add the onions and garlic.
- Cheesy Delight: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top just before serving. Let it melt for a delicious touch!
These variations not only keep the dish exciting but also allow you to cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Enjoy mixing it up!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from this delightful chopped meat recipe is super simple, and it ensures you can enjoy the comforting flavors again! First, let the dish cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it into an airtight container. This way, it’ll stay fresh in your refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty leftovers, reheating is a breeze. You can simply warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through—this usually takes about 5-10 minutes. If you prefer, you can also microwave individual servings. Just pop it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot. If it looks a bit thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Enjoy your comforting meal all over again!
Nutritional Information
It’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body, but keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I can provide some typical values for this chopped meat recipe, they might not be exact. Here’s a general breakdown based on one serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 5g)
- Carbohydrates: 30g (Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 4g)
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
These values make this dish a comforting yet sensible option for a family meal. Enjoy the flavors and the nourishment it brings to your table!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen ground beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it properly in the refrigerator before cooking. You can also cook it straight from frozen, but it may take a little longer to brown.
What can I serve with this chopped meat dish?
This hearty meal pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or some steamed vegetables. You could even serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra flavor!
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this chopped meat recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your beef broth is gluten-free, too. It’s an easy switch that keeps all the comforting flavors intact!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve, and it’ll taste just as delicious!
What if I don’t have beef broth?
No worries! You can substitute with chicken broth or even vegetable broth for a lighter version. Just remember that it may change the flavor slightly, but it will still be tasty!
Chopped Meat Recipes Ground Beef: 7 Comforting Delights
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and comforting dish made with ground beef, perfect for family gatherings.
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 salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups cooked pasta
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth.
- Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes.
- Mix in the cooked pasta and heat through.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chopped meat recipes ground beef
