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ground beef recipe

ground beef recipe

This quick and flavorful ground beef recipe is perfect for busy nights. It’s budget-friendly, customizable with your favorite spices and veggies, and can be served in a variety of ways like over rice, in tacos, or with mashed potatoes. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a satisfying and versatile meal the whole family will love.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course beef
Cuisine American
Servings 4

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!

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