Ah, the wonderful world of ground beef! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, don’t you think? When I think back to family dinners at my parents’ house, there was always a comforting dish made with ground beef simmering on the stove. It’s such a versatile ingredient that can transform into so many delightful meals, from hearty casseroles to savory tacos. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, ground beef is my go-to for creating delicious, satisfying dishes that bring everyone together at the table. I’ve been known to whip up a quick beef stew or a cozy skillet dinner that fills the house with mouthwatering aromas. The best part? You can easily adapt these recipes to suit any occasion or dietary need, making it a true hero in my kitchen. So let’s dive into this comforting recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home too!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish with ground beef. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building flavor and heartiness.

• 1 pound ground beef: This is the star of our dish! Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, or go for a bit more fat for extra flavor.
• 1 onion, chopped: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish. Make sure to chop it into small pieces for even cooking.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a wonderful aroma and flavor. Don’t skimp on this; it’s essential!
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz): These provide moisture and a tangy flavor. You can use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky twist!
• 1 cup beef broth: This helps to create a rich base for the dish. You can substitute with vegetable broth if you prefer.
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables: A convenient way to add color and nutrition. Feel free to use any fresh veggies you have on hand instead.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs adds a lovely Mediterranean flavor. Adjust based on your personal taste!
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your dish. Start with a little and add more as needed.

How to Prepare Instructions

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s get cooking! This part is simple, and I’ll guide you through each step, so you won’t feel lost.

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the pound of ground beef. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. You’ll want it to turn a nice brown color. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
2. Add the Aromatics: When the beef is browned, throw in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir them in and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step is crucial for building flavor!
3. Combine the Ingredients: Next, stir in the can of diced tomatoes along with the beef broth. Give it a good mix to combine everything well.
4. In with the Vegetables: Now it’s time to add the frozen mixed vegetables. Pour them in along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well—it should start to look colorful!
5. Let it Simmer: Lower the heat and let your dish simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once it’s done simmering, serve it hot. You can enjoy this dish on its own or with some crusty bread. Trust me, it’s comforting and delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true gem for those busy weeknights or when you just want something comforting. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

• Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal on the table in under 40 minutes!
• Comforting Nature: The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and vegetables creates a warm, satisfying dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the flavors, making it a perfect choice for family dinners.
• Versatile Options: This dish can easily be customized with different spices or vegetables, so you can make it your own!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a gathering with friends, this recipe fits right in!

Tips for Success

To ensure your dish turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips that I swear by!

• Adjusting Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to taste as you go! If you like a bit more flavor, add extra Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the beef while it’s browning; it should be nicely browned but not overcooked. If you’re using leaner beef, it may cook a bit faster, so check it after 5 minutes.
• Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works beautifully. You can also swap in fresh vegetables if you have them on hand—just chop them small for even cooking.
• Make it Your Own: Feel free to experiment! Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of soy sauce can add depth to the flavor.
• Safety First: Always ensure your ground beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe eating. A meat thermometer is your best friend!

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so don’t hesitate to mix things up and make it your own! Here are a few delightful variations to consider:

• Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. It’ll give your dish a nice kick!
• Vegetable Medley: Swap out the frozen mixed vegetables for your favorites! Fresh bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can add great flavor and nutrition.
• Different Proteins: Ground turkey or chicken is a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for something lighter. You can also use ground pork for a richer taste.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs! Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled in just before serving can brighten up the dish.
• Cheesy Delight: For a comforting twist, stir in some shredded cheese just before serving. Melty cheese makes everything better, doesn’t it?

These variations are just a starting point; the possibilities are endless with ground beef as your canvas!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftovers from this comforting ground beef dish can be a lifesaver for busy days! To store, simply let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to save it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label your container with the date so you can keep track!

When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is a breeze. You can warm it up in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating. If you prefer, you can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it nice and moist. Just be sure to stir occasionally so it heats through without sticking. Enjoy your comforting meal again!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about the nutritional benefits of this comforting ground beef dish! Each serving is packed with flavor and nutrition while still being easy on the waistline. Here’s a general breakdown of the estimated nutritional values:

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Total Fat: About 10g
• Saturated Fat: Roughly 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: About 6g
• Protein: Approximately 20g
• Carbohydrates: Around 20g
• Fiber: About 3g
• Sodium: Estimated at 400mg
• Sugar: Approximately 3g

These values are estimates based on typical ingredients, and they can vary depending on the specific brands and amounts you use. Remember, you can always adjust ingredients to fit your dietary needs while still enjoying a hearty meal!

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about this comforting ground beef recipe and things to make with ground beef. I hope they help you create a delicious meal!

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that they may cook a little faster than beef, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

What if I don’t have beef broth?
No worries! You can use water or vegetable broth instead. If you have bouillon cubes, you can dissolve one in hot water to create a simple broth substitute.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it!

What kinds of vegetables work best?
Feel free to use any vegetables you love! Fresh or frozen bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots all work wonderfully. Just chop them into small pieces for even cooking.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Definitely! You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best texture.

Call to Action

I’d love to hear how your meal turned out! If you try this comforting ground beef recipe, please share your thoughts in the comments below. Did you make any delicious tweaks or variations? Let me know! Your experiences can inspire others. And if you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to give it a rating! Cooking is all about sharing joy, and I can’t wait to see how you make it your own. Happy cooking!

8 Comforting Things to Make with Ground Beef Today

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A comforting recipe for ground beef dishes, perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is soft.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth.
4. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and Italian seasoning.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve hot and enjoy your meal.

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Use fresh vegetables if preferred.
• Add spices according to your taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: ground beef, easy recipes, comfort food