There’s something truly comforting about cooking with ground beef, isn’t there? It’s one of those ingredients that brings back memories of family dinners, laughter around the table, and the warm aroma wafting through the house. This recipe for dinner with ground beef is not only simple but also a heartwarming dish that’s sure to please everyone. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. And the best part? It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want something easy and satisfying. Trust me, this dish is all about comfort, flavor, and making the most of what you have in your kitchen. So, let’s dive in and get ready to create some delicious memories together!
Ingredients List
Before we get cooking, let’s gather everything you’ll need for this delicious recipe. Having your ingredients ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal taste! This recipe is all about comfort and flexibility, so use whatever you enjoy. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! I promise this will be easy, and before you know it, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal on your table. Just follow these simple steps:
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Let it warm up for a minute or so.
- Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together until the onion becomes translucent. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes, and oh, the smell will be delightful!
- Now, it’s time to add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as you go. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; browning the beef adds so much flavor!
- Once the beef is browned, stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. These will help create a lovely sauce!
- Now, toss in the mixed vegetables and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Season everything with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir it all together until well mixed.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You’ll want to let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.
- After simmering, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then serve it warm, and enjoy your comforting meal!
Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process, so take your time and have fun with it! If something doesn’t go exactly as planned, don’t worry; it’ll still taste great. Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious dinner ready in under 30 minutes!
- Comfort Food Appeal: This dish is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy nights in or when you need a little pick-me-up.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean ground beef and plenty of vegetables, this recipe offers a nutritious meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
- Flexibility with Substitutions: Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken, or even use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist. It’s all about making it your own!
- Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a great choice for family dinners.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, which means less cleanup for you—who doesn’t love that?
Tips for Success
To make sure your comforting ground beef dish turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips that I’ve learned along the way:
- Quality Ingredients: Use good quality ground beef for the best flavor. If you can, opt for lean or extra-lean ground beef to keep it lighter without compromising taste.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Browning the beef well is key to developing a rich flavor. Make sure it’s nicely browned before moving on to the next step. It really makes a difference!
- Fresh Herbs and Spices: If you have fresh herbs on hand, like basil or parsley, feel free to add them in for a burst of freshness. They can elevate the dish wonderfully!
- Taste as You Go: This is so important! Don’t be shy about tasting your dish throughout the cooking process. This way, you can adjust the seasoning to your liking. A little extra salt or pepper can really enhance the flavors!
- Adjust the Veggies: If you’re using frozen mixed vegetables, make sure to add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking. Fresh veggies might need a bit more time, so keep an eye on them for that perfect tenderness.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and meld together, making each bite even more delicious.
Remember, cooking is an adventure, so don’t be afraid to experiment a little! Enjoy the process, and feel free to make this dish your own. You’ve got this!
Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up a bit or cater to different dietary needs, I’ve got you covered with some delicious variations! This recipe is super flexible, which means you can really make it your own. Here are some ideas:
- Alternative Proteins: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. It’ll still be just as tasty! You can even try using plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetarian Version: If you want to make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with lentils or chopped mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for an equally hearty flavor.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Don’t hesitate to add seasonal vegetables to the mix! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even some chopped spinach can add flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to keep everything perfectly tender.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you sauté the onions and garlic. It’ll give your dish a nice kick!
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs! Instead of Italian seasoning, try using taco seasoning for a fun twist, or even some curry powder for an exotic flavor profile.
Feel free to get creative and use what you have on hand. This recipe is all about comfort and making it fit your tastes, so don’t be afraid to experiment! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information Section
When it comes to enjoying a comforting meal, it’s always nice to have a bit of insight into the nutritional aspects. However, please keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider this an estimate. Here’s a general breakdown for a serving of this ground beef dish:
- Calories: Approximately 300
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Sugar: 3g
These values can give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying in each comforting bite. Remember, cooking is about balance and enjoyment, so feel free to adjust ingredients to suit your dietary needs. Happy cooking and eating!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve enjoyed your delicious meal, you might have some leftovers to store. Leftover ground beef dishes can be just as comforting the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat your dish properly so it stays tasty:
First, let your leftovers cool down to room temperature before storing them. This helps prevent condensation in the container, which can make your dish soggy. Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to label the container with the date so you know when to enjoy them by!
If you want to keep your dish for longer, you can also freeze it. Portion out the leftovers into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. This way, you can enjoy your meal for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
When it comes time to reheat, you have a couple of options. For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This helps maintain the texture and flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just place your serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel, and heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking.
To keep the flavors vibrant, feel free to add a splash of beef broth or a dash of seasoning while reheating. This can help bring back that fresh taste from when you first cooked it. Enjoy those comforting leftovers!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables work great in this recipe. Just add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking to ensure they’re heated through but still maintain a nice texture. They’re a convenient option and save you prep time!
What can I serve with this dish?
This comforting meal pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. You could also serve it over rice or pasta for a heartier option. Whatever you choose, it’s sure to be delightful!
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to cool them down to room temperature before storing. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to 2-3 months!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time! Just follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it on the stovetop or microwave. It’s perfect for meal prep!
Can I add more spices or change the flavor profile?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with spices. If you want a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce. For a different flavor, try using taco seasoning instead of Italian seasoning. The options are endless!
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this comforting ground beef recipe a try! It’s all about simplicity and bringing warmth to your table, and I believe you’ll love how easy it is to make. Cooking should be enjoyable, and this dish is perfect for gathering family or friends for a delightful meal. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Did you add any special ingredients or make it your own? Feel free to leave a comment below sharing your experience or any tips you discovered along the way. Your feedback not only makes my day but also helps others in our cooking community. And if you enjoyed it, a rating would be fantastic! Happy cooking, and here’s to many cozy dinners ahead!
Print
Comforting Recipes for Dinner with Ground Beef to Enjoy
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and comforting recipe for dinner using ground beef.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth.
- Add the mixed vegetables and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve warm, and enjoy your comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: recipes for dinner with ground beef