Dinner Ideas with Ground Beef: 5 Comforting Recipes

dinner ideas with ground beef

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Hey there, fellow home cooks! If you’re anything like me, you know those busy weeknights can be a real challenge when it comes to putting dinner on the table. That’s why I’m so excited to share my go-to *dinner ideas with ground beef*! Ground beef is such a versatile ingredient; it can be transformed into a hearty chili, a comforting casserole, or even a quick stir-fry, making it a staple in my kitchen.

One of my favorite recipes features just a handful of ingredients but packs a flavor punch that my whole family loves. I remember the first time I made it, after a long day, and it was ready in just 30 minutes! The way the ground beef melds with the veggies and seasonings creates a comforting dish that warms you right up. Trust me, this is a dish you’ll want to add to your weekly rotation. Let’s dive in and make dinner effortless!

Ingredients List

To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, but feel free to go for a mix if you prefer a richer flavor.
  • 1 onion, chopped: A medium onion works perfectly; it adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a game changer; it brings an aromatic punch!
  • 1 can diced tomatoes: Use a 14.5 oz can; they add moisture and a nice acidity to balance the flavors.
  • 1 cup beef broth: This will enhance the savory aspect; low-sodium options are great if you’re watching your salt.
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables: Fresh or frozen, whatever you have on hand works wonders here!
  • 1 tsp salt: Adjust to taste, depending on your broth.
  • 1 tsp pepper: Freshly cracked is always best for flavor.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs ties everything together beautifully.

How to Prepare Instructions

Now, let’s jump into the fun part—cooking! This recipe is super straightforward, and you’ll have a warm, satisfying meal in no time.

  1. Brown the beef: Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 lb of ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to break it up with a spatula so it cooks evenly!
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Once the beef is fully browned, drain any excess fat if needed. Then, toss in the 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté them together for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is nice and translucent. The smell will be heavenly!
  3. Add the liquids: Stir in the 1 can of diced tomatoes along with the 1 cup of beef broth. This combination will create a flavorful base for your dish. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
  4. In with the veggies: Now, it’s time to add in the 2 cups of mixed vegetables, 1 tsp of salt, 1 tsp of pepper, and 1 tsp of Italian seasoning. Mix everything together until well combined.
  5. Simmer away: Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully. Just keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t boil over!
  6. Serve hot: Once the time’s up, give it a good stir, taste, and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve it hot, and enjoy the hearty goodness you’ve just created!

And there you have it! A delicious meal made in just about 30 minutes. So simple, yet so satisfying. You’re going to love the way it fills your kitchen with those cozy aromas!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep, you’ll have a hearty dinner ready in 30 minutes!
  • One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze—who doesn’t love that?
  • Customizable: Use whatever veggies you have on hand, making it perfect for leftovers and reducing waste.
  • Flavorful and Satisfying: The blend of ground beef, spices, and veggies creates a deliciously comforting dish everyone will enjoy.
  • Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, this meal is both nutritious and low-calorie!

Tips for Success

To make sure your dish turns out just right, here are some handy tips:

  • Don’t rush the browning: Let the ground beef get a nice sear. This adds depth of flavor!
  • Drain excess fat: If you’ve used higher-fat beef, be sure to drain it after browning to avoid a greasy dish.
  • Adjust seasonings: Always taste before serving! You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper to suit your taste.
  • Experiment with veggies: If you have some wilting greens or leftover roasted veggies, toss them in for extra flavor and nutrition!
  • Store leftovers properly: If you have any, cool the dish completely before transferring it to an airtight container for the fridge or freezer.

Variations

This recipe is super flexible, so feel free to get creative with it! Here are some fun variations to try:

  • Veggie Swap: Instead of mixed vegetables, use fresh spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a different twist. You can even toss in some corn for sweetness!
  • Spice it Up: Add a kick of heat by including red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a smoky flavor, consider adding some smoked paprika.
  • Herb Infusion: Try swapping the Italian seasoning for taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex flair, or use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a garden-fresh taste.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve the mixture over rice, pasta, or even a baked potato for a hearty meal. You can also top it with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your delicious ground beef dish is super easy! First, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture buildup and keeps your leftovers fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to save it for a later date, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months!

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick fix—just make sure to cover it to avoid splatters! Enjoy your meals without any fuss!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying this easy dinner idea with ground beef, it’s always good to know what you’re getting in terms of nutrition! Please keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Here’s a general breakdown for one serving (1 cup):

  • Calories: 250
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Sodium: 500mg

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and healthy choice for dinner!

FAQ Section

If you’re like me, you might have a few questions about this easy dinner idea with ground beef. Let’s tackle some of the most common ones!

  • Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great in this recipe. Just keep in mind that they might cook a little faster, so watch the browning time closely.
  • What if I don’t have beef broth? No worries! You can substitute with chicken broth or even vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
  • Can I add beans for extra protein? Yes! Canned beans, like black beans or kidney beans, can be a fantastic addition. Just rinse and drain them before adding.
  • How can I make this dish spicy? If you love a little heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you sauté the onions and garlic.
  • What’s a good side to serve with this? This dish pairs beautifully with rice or a side salad. You could also serve it over mashed potatoes for a comforting twist!
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dinner ideas with ground beef

Dinner Ideas with Ground Beef: 5 Comforting Recipes


  • Author: ushinzomr
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

Easy dinner ideas featuring ground beef.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
  2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until onion is translucent.
  3. Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth.
  4. Add mixed vegetables, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  5. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
  6. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use any leftover vegetables you have.
  • Serve with rice or pasta for a complete meal.
  • This dish can be frozen for later use.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: dinner ideas with ground beef, easy beef recipes, quick dinner

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Hello, I'm Christina

I'm a creator of delicious recipes. Cooking, baking, recipe development, and kitchen consulting are my passion. I love sharing my dishes and connecting with people through the food I prepare.

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