Welcome to my cozy kitchen! If you’re looking for a recipe that’s not just easy but also comforting, you’ve come to the right place. This ground beef dish is perfect for those nights when you want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a simple recipe that fits seamlessly into our busy lives. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a delightful meal that the whole family will enjoy. Trust me, you’ll love how effortlessly it comes together while still packing that home-cooked flavor we all crave!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef: This is the star of the dish! Look for lean ground beef to keep it lighter, but feel free to use what you have on hand.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: A nice, sweet onion adds flavor and depth. Make sure to chop it into small pieces for even cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a wonderful aroma and taste. If you’re a garlic lover, don’t hesitate to add a bit more!
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes: These add juiciness and a lovely acidity to balance the flavors. You can use fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra kick!
- 1 cup beef broth: This helps to create a savory base for your dish. If you prefer, you can use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb that complements the beef beautifully. If you have fresh oregano, use that instead for a vibrant taste!
- Salt and pepper to taste: These everyday seasonings enhance all the flavors in the dish. Don’t be shy—season to your liking!
- 2 cups cooked pasta (optional): If you want to make this dish heartier, adding cooked pasta is a great option. Any shape will do—just toss it in at the end!
How to Prepare Instructions
- First, grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the pan. Cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s nicely browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. You want to see that delicious golden color!
- Once the beef is browned, it’s time to add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir them in and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent. Oh, the smell of garlic and onion together is just heavenly!
- Next, stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, the beef broth, and the dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Give everything a good stir to combine nicely.
- Bring this flavorful mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. This is where the magic happens! Allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help all those wonderful flavors meld together.
- If you’re using the cooked pasta, add it to the skillet during the last few minutes of simmering. Stir it in and let it heat through. This makes the dish even heartier and more satisfying.
- When everything is cooked and the flavors are just right, serve your dish warm. It’s perfect on its own, or you can pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes!
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and warm spices creates a dish that feels like a big hug on a plate.
- Versatile: This recipe is easily adaptable. You can add your favorite veggies or serve it over rice, pasta, or even in a wrap!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty dish, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Great Leftovers: It stores well in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or quick lunches.
Tips for Success
To ensure your ground beef dish turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips! First, when browning the beef, make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the meat. This helps achieve that lovely golden color and delicious flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches to avoid steaming the meat.
Seasoning is key! Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Remember, it’s always easier to add than to take away!
Safety is important too! Always cook ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat. And when storing leftovers, let the dish cool down before placing it in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the best flavor and texture for your next meal!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe to fit your dietary needs! For a leaner option, you can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or ground chicken. These alternatives are lower in fat and still provide a satisfying flavor. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them!
If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, consider using lentils or plant-based ground meat. Lentils are packed with protein and fiber, and they absorb the flavors beautifully. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as lentils will need a bit longer to soften.
Feel free to add any extra vegetables you enjoy! Chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even zucchini can enhance both the nutrition and flavor of your dish. These swaps allow you to enjoy a comforting meal while catering to your personal preferences!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for this comforting ground beef recipe. Each serving, which is about 1 cup, contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients and serving sizes, so they may vary slightly depending on what you use. This dish is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates to keep you satisfied!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen ground beef for this recipe? Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. If you’re short on time, you can also use the microwave to defrost it, but be careful not to start cooking it in the microwave.
What can I serve with this ground beef dish? This recipe is quite versatile! You can serve it over pasta, rice, or even in a warm tortilla for a delicious wrap. A side salad or some steamed vegetables would complement it perfectly too!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Yes, indeed! It stores well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I make this dish spicier? Definitely! If you enjoy some heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will give it a nice kick. Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store any leftovers, let the dish cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze the dish for up to two months. Just make sure to label the container with the date!
When you’re ready to reheat, you can do so on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If you’re using a microwave, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover it to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until hot. This helps maintain the flavor and texture of the dish, ensuring it’s just as delicious as when you first made it!
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Easy Recipes Ground Beef for Comforting Family Dinners
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and comforting ground beef recipe that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked pasta (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is soft.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- If using, add the cooked pasta and stir until heated through.
- Serve warm and enjoy your meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For a vegetarian version, use lentils or plant-based ground meat.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: easy ground beef recipes