Ground beef is a staple in many kitchens for good reason—it’s affordable, quick to cook, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting skillet meal or a simple family dinner, easy meals with ground beef never disappoint.
This recipe brings all the flavors you love in a hassle-free way, perfect for busy nights or when you want a filling dish without the fuss. Ready to make a meal that’s both satisfying and simple? Let’s get started!
Key Benefits
When it comes to easy meals with ground beef, there’s no shortage of reasons why this ingredient is a kitchen hero. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Quick and Convenient: Ground beef cooks fast, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when time is limited. A delicious dinner will be ready in no time.
- Versatile and Adaptable: Ground beef can be used in a variety of dishes—from savory tacos to comforting casseroles or even hearty pasta sauces. The possibilities are endless, so you’ll never get bored!
- Budget-Friendly: It’s an affordable option, especially when feeding a family or preparing meals in advance. Ground beef allows you to stretch your grocery budget without compromising on taste or nutrition.
- Flavorful and Filling: Rich in flavor and packed with protein, ground beef makes meals more satisfying. It’s perfect for hearty dishes that will keep you full and content.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer lean or fatty cuts, you can choose the ground beef that suits your health goals or flavor preferences. Plus, it pairs well with a variety of herbs, spices, and vegetables.
This recipe will show you just how easy it is to turn ground beef into a meal that’s not only delicious but also full of nutrients and flavor. Let’s dive into the next section!
Ingredients
Now that we’ve covered the benefits of ground beef, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this easy and satisfying meal. These simple ingredients combine to make a dish that’s as delicious as it is effortless.
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, depending on your preference)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth (for added depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin (optional, for a bit of warmth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Let’s walk through the steps to make this easy and flavorful ground beef meal. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a satisfying dish ready in no time.
Prepare Your Ingredients
You can begin by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. This ensures everything is ready to go and makes cooking much quicker. If you’re adding cheese, have that ready to sprinkle on top when the dish is done.
Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Add the Onion and Garlic
Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent. This step builds a savory base for your dish.
Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and onions in the seasonings. This will bring out the rich flavors in the dish.
Add Tomatoes and Beef Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and beef broth. Stir to combine. Bring everything to a simmer and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Final Touches
Once the mixture is well combined and heated through, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it over the top and cover the skillet for a minute or two to melt the cheese, creating a gooey, comforting finish.
That’s it! You’ve just created a flavorful, easy meal with ground beef in no time. The whole process should take under 30 minutes, making it a perfect go-to recipe for busy days.
Pro Tips and Variations
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s talk about ways to elevate this recipe and make it your own. These pro tips and variations will help you customize your dish to fit your tastes and dietary needs.
Pro Tips:
Flavor Boost: For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of soy sauce when cooking the ground beef. It’ll enhance the umami and give your dish a savory kick.
Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can even add fresh diced jalapeños to the skillet for an added burst of spice.
One-Pan Magic: This dish can easily become a one-pan wonder by adding your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach all work wonderfully in this recipe. Simply sauté them with the onions for a nutrient-packed twist.
Make it Low-Carb: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, serve the beef mixture over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of regular rice. It’s a light, tasty option that still pairs perfectly with the savory flavors.
Variations:
Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter, leaner protein. The cooking process remains the same, and the flavors will still shine.
Add a Crunch: For added texture, top the finished dish with crispy fried onions, crushed tortilla chips, or even a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs.
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different types of cheese. While cheddar works beautifully, you could also use mozzarella for a gooey melt, or Parmesan for a sharp, nutty finish.
These tips and variations will ensure that every time you make this recipe, it feels fresh and exciting. Plus, they give you the flexibility to adapt based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Have fun experimenting and customizing this dish to suit your taste!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your dish is ready, it’s time to think about how to serve it for maximum enjoyment. The beauty of this easy meal with ground beef is its versatility—it pairs well with so many sides to round out the meal. Here are a few ideas to elevate your dinner and make it even more satisfying:
Serve with Rice: A classic pairing! Whether you choose white, brown, or even cauliflower rice, it’s the perfect base to soak up the delicious sauce and flavors from the ground beef.
Pair with a Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad is a great contrast to the richness of the beef. Try a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette or add some sliced avocado for creaminess.
Enjoy with Tortillas: If you’re in the mood for something more handheld, serve the beef mixture with soft flour tortillas. It’s a great way to make tacos or wraps, especially if you top it with some shredded cheese and fresh cilantro.
Add Steamed Vegetables: For a balanced meal, serve this dish alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. The natural sweetness of the veggies complements the savory beef perfectly.
These serving ideas are just the beginning—you can mix and match based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences. Whether you go for a lighter option or a heartier meal, this dish will shine as the centerpiece. Enjoy and get creative with your pairings!
FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions that may help you as you prepare this easy ground beef meal:
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes for a lighter version of this recipe. The cooking process is the same—just be sure to adjust the seasoning to match the milder flavor of poultry. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or spices to bring out the flavor.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
If you love spice, this recipe is easy to customize. Add chili flakes, diced jalapeños, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the ground beef while it cooks for a bit of heat. You can also top the dish with a dollop of spicy salsa when serving.