Ground beef is one of those magical ingredients that can transform a simple meal into something truly comforting and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a family gathering, there are countless things to do with ground beef that can satisfy everyone’s cravings. I love how versatile it is—one minute, it’s sizzling in a skillet for a quick taco dinner; the next, it’s simmering away in a hearty pasta dish that warms the soul. It’s the ultimate go-to for busy weeknights or when you just want to indulge in a hearty meal. Trust me, this recipe is not just easy to prepare; it’s also packed with flavor, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. Let’s dive in and discover how to create a comforting dish using ground beef that you and your loved ones will cherish!
Ingredients List
To create this comforting dish, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 1 pound ground beef: This is the star of the show! You can use regular or lean ground beef depending on your preference.
- 1 onion, chopped: A medium onion works perfectly—just chop it into small pieces for even cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor. If you prefer, you can use garlic powder in a pinch!
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: These add a nice acidity and depth to the dish.
- 1 cup beef broth: This enhances the flavor, but feel free to substitute with vegetable broth if you’d like a lighter option.
- 1 teaspoon salt: This helps to bring out all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper: A little kick to balance the richness of the beef.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: This herb is a great addition for a touch of earthiness.
- 2 cups cooked pasta of your choice: I love using penne or rotini, but any pasta you have on hand will do!
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional): This is an optional treat! Sprinkle it on top for a gooey, cheesy finish that everyone will love.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to whip up a delightful meal that’s sure to please! Remember, you can always adjust the quantities based on your personal taste or dietary needs.
How to Prepare Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This process is straightforward and perfect for any skill level. Here’s how to bring everything together:
- Brown the ground beef: Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the ground beef. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned. Make sure to break it up with a spatula as it cooks.
- Add the onion and garlic: Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them together for another 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step adds such a lovely aroma!
- Stir in the tomatoes and broth: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes and the cup of beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine. The mixture will start to bubble a bit—that’s a good sign!
- Season the mixture: Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Mix everything well so that the spices are evenly distributed.
- Let it simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add the pasta: Finally, stir in the cooked pasta and heat everything through for another 2-3 minutes. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it on top now and let it melt a bit.
And just like that, you’ve created a comforting meal! Serve it warm, and enjoy every delicious bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: You can have this comforting meal ready in just 30 minutes!
- Delicious and hearty: The combination of ground beef, pasta, and rich flavors makes every bite satisfying.
- Incredibly versatile: Use whatever pasta you have on hand and adjust the seasonings to your taste.
- Easy clean-up: One skillet is all you need, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this tasty dish!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Don’t fret if you don’t have every ingredient on hand! This recipe is wonderfully flexible and can accommodate various dietary preferences. For a leaner option, you can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. They work just as well, and you’ll still enjoy a hearty meal!
If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add more veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can be delightful additions. They’ll add a pop of color and extra nutrients to your dish!
And if you’re dairy-free, you can omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. The key is to have fun and make it your own! Adjusting the ingredients to suit your needs can make this dish even more special.
Tips for Success
To ensure your comforting ground beef dish turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips to keep in mind. First, make sure to cook the ground beef until it’s well browned; this adds depth of flavor to the dish. Don’t rush it! Stirring occasionally helps break it up and ensures even cooking.
When you’re adding the garlic and onion, keep an eye on them; you want them soft but not browned. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat. Also, remember to taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, whether it’s a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper.
Finally, be cautious when simmering—watch for splatters! A lid can help contain it if you’re using a lively simmer. And don’t forget, letting the dish sit for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information
While I can provide some general nutritional information for this comforting ground beef dish, please keep in mind that the exact values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. For instance, the choice of ground beef (regular or lean) and any optional ingredients like cheese will impact the final counts. This recipe typically yields about 350 calories per serving, but it’s always a good idea to check your labels for the most accurate information. Enjoy your meal while keeping your personal dietary needs in mind!
FAQ Section
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just follow the same steps, and you’ll end up with a delicious meal that’s still satisfying.
What kind of pasta works best in this recipe?
You can really use any pasta you love! I often go for penne or rotini because the sauce clings nicely to the shapes. But feel free to get creative with whatever you have in your pantry—spaghetti or even whole wheat pasta works well too!
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this comforting dish gluten-free, simply swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. You can also ensure your broth and canned tomatoes are labeled gluten-free. It’s easy to enjoy this meal without the gluten!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the beef and sauce mixture in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just cook the pasta fresh right before serving to keep it from getting mushy.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers are a dream! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, and you’ve got another hearty meal waiting for you!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from this comforting ground beef dish is easy and helps you enjoy it again later! Simply allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to label it if you’re storing multiple dishes—trust me, it helps to know what’s what!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze. You can warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If you prefer using the microwave, transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until it’s warm. Just be cautious, as it can get hot quickly!
Enjoy those delicious leftovers—they’re just as comforting the second time around!
Print
5 Heartwarming Things to Do with Ground Beef Today
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting and versatile recipe using ground beef that is easy to prepare and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups cooked pasta of your choice
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
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 salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix well.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Mix in the cooked pasta and heat through.
- Top with shredded cheese if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: ground beef recipe, easy dinner, comfort food
