Ground beef recipes for dinner are a staple in many households, often serving as a shortcut to comfort and satisfaction. Picture a bubbling pot of savory beef stew, wafting aromas teasing your taste buds and making your stomach growl with anticipation.
Remember those evenings when the sun dipped below the horizon, and you could hear the sizzle of ground beef hitting the skillet? It’s an aroma that brings back memories of family dinners and laughter around the table. Ground beef recipes not only fill your belly but also warm your heart, making them perfect for cozy nights in or impromptu gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This ground beef recipe is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors will make everyone at your table smile
- With its colorful presentation, it’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand
There was this one time I made a huge batch of spaghetti with my favorite ground beef sauce. My friends all raved about it, and I felt like a culinary superstar if only for that night!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
-
Onion: Use yellow onions for sweetness; they’ll caramelize beautifully during cooking.
-
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings vibrant flavor; minced garlic works best for even distribution.
-
Canned Tomatoes: Opt for crushed tomatoes; they provide a rich base for sauces and stews.
-
Spices: A mix of oregano and basil adds depth; don’t skip these essential herbs!
-
Pasta or Rice: Your choice here! Both serve as hearty carriers for that luscious beef sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. This step sets the foundation for an aromatic base that makes your dish irresistible.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the onions first until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Then add garlic for another minute until it’s golden.
Add Ground Beef: Crank up the heat slightly and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until browned while breaking it apart with a spatula—about 7-10 minutes should do!
Mix in Tomatoes and Spices: Pour in those crushed tomatoes along with oregano and basil. Stir everything together and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes—the longer, the better!
Serve It Up!: Once everything is bubbling away nicely, taste it! Adjust salt and pepper if needed before serving over pasta or rice garnished with fresh herbs if you have them.
This recipe brings together ease, flavor, and nostalgia in every bite. Enjoy your evening filled with laughter over plates piled high with goodness!
You Must Know
- Ground beef recipes for dinner are a lifesaver; they offer versatility, flavor, and quick prep
- This dish can be easily tailored to fit your family’s taste buds or pantry items
- The comforting aroma while cooking will make your home feel inviting and warm
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a hot pan; this locks in flavor. While that sizzles, chop your veggies and prepare any sauces you want to add. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly and reduces wait time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken if you’re feeling adventurous! Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition. And don’t forget spices like paprika or cumin to kick it up a notch!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so on low heat to avoid drying out the meat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance your ground beef recipes for dinner, use high-quality meat for richer flavors
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while browning; this helps achieve that coveted caramelized texture
- Lastly, always let the cooked beef rest a bit before serving for juiciness
I remember the first time I made a ground beef dish for my friends; their compliments made me feel like a culinary genius! That was when I realized how simple ingredients could create memorable moments.
FAQ
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives effectively.
How do I know when the beef is cooked?
Ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F to be safely consumed.
Can I freeze leftover ground beef dishes?
Yes, properly stored leftovers can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor.
Ground Beef Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground beef is a versatile and comforting ingredient that can transform any weeknight dinner into a satisfying meal. This easy-to-follow recipe combines lean ground beef with aromatic vegetables and rich tomatoes, creating a delicious sauce perfect for pasta or rice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked pasta or rice (for serving)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Increase heat slightly, then add the ground beef. Brown it while breaking it apart with a spatula for about 7-10 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Let simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Serve over cooked pasta or rice, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Enhance the dish by adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms. For extra spice, consider incorporating paprika or cumin.