Ground beef recipes are perfect for quick, flavorful meals that everyone will love. Whether you’re making a simple dinner or a hearty dish, ground beef is versatile and easy to work with. It’s a budget-friendly option that can be customized with your favorite spices and vegetables. This recipe will help you create a delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
Why We Love This Ground Beef Recipe
This ground beef recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s not just about the incredible flavor; it’s also about how simple and versatile it is. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a satisfying meal in no time.
- Quick & Easy: With just a few ingredients, you can have a meal ready in under 30 minutes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Budget-Friendly: Ground beef is an affordable ingredient that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It’s a great option for anyone looking to stretch their grocery budget while still enjoying a delicious, filling dish.
- Versatile: The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite spices and veggies or even substitute ground turkey if you prefer a lighter option. Whether you serve it over rice, in tacos, or with a side of mashed potatoes, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
- Flavorful & Savory: The combination of sautéed onions, garlic, and your choice of spices makes this ground beef dish irresistible. Each bite is packed with savory goodness that’ll have your taste buds asking for more.
This recipe is all about comfort food made easy. It’s one of those dishes that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family, and it’s so delicious that everyone will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients for This Ground Beef Recipe
When it comes to cooking with ground beef, you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create a flavorful meal. Here’s what you’ll need for this easy and delicious recipe:
Ground beef – Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, or regular ground beef for a richer flavor. Ground turkey can also be used for a lighter version.
Onion – Adds a savory base and natural sweetness when sautéed. A medium onion, finely chopped, is ideal for this recipe.
Garlic – Enhances the flavor profile with savory richness. Minced garlic works best to integrate well with the beef.
Bell pepper – Optional but adds color, crunch, and flavor to the dish. It complements the other ingredients.
Diced tomatoes – Adds moisture and tang, balancing the richness of the beef. You can choose seasoned tomatoes for extra flavor.
Beef broth – Creates a savory sauce for the dish. It can be substituted with water but will provide less richness.
Olive oil – Used to sauté the aromatics (onion and garlic), adding flavor and helping with even cooking.
Ground cumin – Adds warmth and earthiness to the dish, enhancing the flavor of the beef.
Chili powder – Adds mild heat and depth of flavor. Adjust the quantity based on your preferred spice level.
Instructions for This Ground Beef Recipe
Ready to bring this delicious ground beef recipe to life? Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a flavorful meal in no time!
Prepare the Ingredients
Chop the onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using) to ensure even cooking and save time during preparation.
Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté the chopped onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant, building flavor for the dish.
Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Brown for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, and season with salt and pepper.
Add the Tomatoes & Spices
Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors into a savory sauce.
Adjust Seasoning
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat or soy sauce/Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
Serve
Once the beef is tender and the flavors have combined, serve over rice, in tacos, or with mashed potatoes or vegetables for a versatile meal.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Ground Beef Recipe
To take your ground beef recipe to the next level, here are a few pro tips that will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish:
Use Lean Ground Beef for Less Grease
If you prefer a leaner option, go for ground beef with a lower fat content (like 90/10). This will help reduce the amount of grease in the pan and give you a healthier dish without compromising flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
When browning the ground beef, avoid overcrowding the pan. If necessary, cook the beef in batches. This ensures that the meat browns properly and doesn’t steam in its own juices, keeping it tender and flavorful.
Season as You Go
Seasoning the beef while it’s cooking is essential to build layers of flavor. Adding a pinch of salt and pepper at each stage helps bring out the richness of the meat and ensures the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Add Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor
Consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley right at the end of cooking for a burst of freshness. Fresh herbs can balance out the savory richness of the beef, adding another layer of flavor to your dish.
Customize the Spices
Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste preferences. If you love heat, add more chili powder or red pepper flakes. For a smoky touch, a bit of smoked paprika can go a long way in adding depth to the flavor profile.
Make It a One-Pan Dish
To simplify cleanup, you can easily make this recipe a one-pan dish by adding your favorite vegetables (like zucchini, carrots, or corn) to the pan while it simmers. The vegetables will absorb the savory flavors of the beef, making for a complete, balanced meal.
With these tips, your ground beef recipe will be packed with flavor, texture, and the kind of cooking confidence that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Variations of This Ground Beef Recipe
One of the best things about this ground beef recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re in the mood for something different or you want to mix things up with what you have in your pantry, here are some variations to try:
Ground Beef Tacos
Turn this recipe into a taco night favorite by adding taco seasoning and serving the beef mixture in soft or hard taco shells. Top with shredded lettuce, cheese, sour cream, and salsa for a fun and customizable meal.
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
For a healthier twist, add some colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry them with ground beef for a quick and nutritious dish. Serve it over rice or noodles for a filling meal.
Ground Beef Chili
If you want something heartier, try making a simple chili. Add kidney beans, black beans, and chili peppers to the beef mixture, and let it simmer for a thicker, spicier dish. Serve with cornbread or over rice for an extra cozy touch.
Ground Beef Casserole
Transform this into a casserole by layering the beef mixture with cooked pasta and cheese in a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs or more cheese and bake until golden and bubbly. It’s a comfort food classic that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
Serving Suggestions for This Ground Beef Recipe
This ground beef recipe is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways, depending on your mood or dietary preferences. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal and make it even more enjoyable:
Over Rice
Serve the flavorful ground beef mixture over a bed of steamed rice. The rice will absorb all the savory juices, creating a satisfying and balanced meal. You can also use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
In Tacos
Transform ground beef into a delicious taco filling. Fill soft or crunchy taco shells with the beef and top with fresh ingredients like lettuce, cheese, salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for a fun and customizable dinner.
With Mashed Potatoes
For a comforting, hearty meal, serve the ground beef mixture with creamy mashed potatoes. The richness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory beef and enhances the overall flavor.
Over Salad
Looking for a lighter meal? Serve the ground beef on top of a bed of fresh greens. Add tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of your favorite dressing for a refreshing, protein-packed salad.
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FAQs About This Ground Beef Recipe
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you get the most out of this ground beef recipe:
How do I prevent ground beef from being greasy?
To reduce excess grease, opt for leaner ground beef, such as 90/10 or 93/7. Additionally, when cooking, be sure to drain the fat after browning the beef to ensure a lighter, less greasy dish.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef, especially if you want a leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier, so you may need to add a little extra moisture like broth, or a bit more seasoning to keep the flavor rich.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the ground beef mixture in advance, store it in the fridge, and then reheat it when you’re ready to serve. It also tastes great the next day, as the flavors continue to meld together.
What can I add to the ground beef to make it spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, you can add extra chili powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or even some finely chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture. Adjust to your desired level of spice, and feel free to experiment with your favorite hot ingredients.
ground beef recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef lean or regular, depending on your preference
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced (optional, for added flavor and color)
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (with or without added seasoning)
- 1 cup beef broth or water, if you prefer a lighter option
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika optional for extra flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by chopping the onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using). This helps everything cook evenly and speeds up the process.
Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This is where the flavor starts building, so don’t skip this step!
Brown the Ground Beef
- Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper as it cooks!
Add the Tomatoes & Spices
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Mix everything together and let it simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich, savory sauce.
Adjust Seasoning
- Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like things a little spicier, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes. Want more depth? A dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can do the trick.
Serve
- Once the ground beef is tender and the flavors have combined, it’s ready to serve! Enjoy this dish over rice, in tacos, or with a side of mashed potatoes or vegetables. The possibilities are endless!