Hey there, fellow food lover! If you’re anything like me, you know that busy weeknights can be a real challenge when it comes to dinner. That’s why I adore ground beef recipes for dinner easy! They’re not just quick and simple, but they also pack in tons of flavor, making them a perfect solution for those hectic evenings. This particular recipe is a gem—it’s super straightforward and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever you’re in the mood for! Seriously, whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a cozy meal for yourself, this dish is a warm hug in a bowl. So, let’s dive in and make dinnertime something to look forward to!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef: I like to use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but feel free to choose your favorite type. Just make sure it’s well-browned for maximum flavor!
- 1 medium onion, chopped: A yellow onion works beautifully here. Chop it into small pieces so it cooks evenly and blends well with the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a game-changer! Mince it finely to release all those aromatic oils that make this dish so savory.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: I love using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra depth of flavor, but regular ones are just fine too!
- 1 cup beef broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness. This adds moisture and richness to the dish.
- 1 cup cooked rice: Leftover rice works wonders here! If you don’t have any, just cook some up—white or brown rice will do!
- 1 tsp paprika: This adds a warm, smoky flavor. You can use sweet or smoked paprika based on your preference.
- 1 tsp cumin: Cumin brings a lovely earthiness to the dish. It’s a must for that robust flavor profile!
- Salt to taste: Don’t forget to season as you go! I usually start with a pinch and adjust later.
- Pepper to taste: Freshly cracked black pepper is my go-to for a little kick.
- 1 cup shredded cheese: Cheddar is my favorite, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack or even a spicy pepper jack for a zing!
How to Prepare Instructions
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the 1 lb ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks, letting it brown evenly. This should take about 5-7 minutes. You want it fully cooked with no pink remaining, so keep an eye on it!
- Next, toss in the 1 medium onion, chopped, and 2 cloves garlic, minced. Sauté everything together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This is where the magic starts to happen—trust me, the aroma is heavenly!
- Now, stir in the 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes along with 1 cup beef broth. Add the 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything together well and bring this delightful mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken up a bit. If you notice it getting too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more broth!
- Once it’s thickened, stir in the 1 cup cooked rice. Make sure to mix it in thoroughly so every grain is coated in that delicious sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just to heat the rice through.
- Finally, sprinkle the 1 cup shredded cheese over the top and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it sit for a few minutes, until the cheese melts into a gooey, delightful layer. Oops, you might want to have a spoon handy for this part—it’ll be hard to resist!
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if you like. I love a sprinkle of parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and a total cook time of only 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast!
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Less time washing dishes means more time enjoying your meal!
- Flavor Packed: The combination of spices, tomatoes, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering dish that’s full of comforting flavors. You’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients come together!
- Versatile: Feel free to mix it up! Add your favorite veggies, beans, or spices to customize the dish to your taste. It’s a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch!
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking a sweat.
- Leftover Magic: The leftovers are just as delicious, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
Variations
One of the best things about this ground beef recipe is how adaptable it is! You can easily switch things up to match your mood or what you have on hand. Here are some of my favorite variations:
- Bell Peppers: Chop up some bell peppers (red, green, or yellow) and toss them in with the onions and garlic. They add a lovely sweetness and extra crunch to the dish!
- Black Beans: For a heartier meal, stir in a can of rinsed black beans along with the diced tomatoes. They boost the protein content and add a nice texture.
- Spicy Kick: If you’re craving some heat, consider adding chili powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or even fresh jalapeños. Just a teaspoon or two can elevate the flavor profile and make it exciting!
- Herbs and Greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale at the end—just a couple of handfuls will wilt down beautifully and add a nutritious boost. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also brighten up the flavors.
- Cheese Variety: Swap out the cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy twist, or try feta for a Mediterranean flair. You could even mix cheeses for a melty, gooey topping that’s irresistible!
- Different Grains: Instead of rice, why not try quinoa or couscous? They add different textures and flavors, making this dish feel fresh every time you make it!
These variations can not only enhance the flavor but also make this dish a delightful surprise each time you whip it up. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers properly is key to enjoying this delicious dish again! First, let the beef mixture cool to room temperature—this helps prevent condensation in your storage container, which can make things soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to save it for longer, this dish freezes beautifully! Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. Make sure to label your containers with the date, so you know when to use them up!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, here’s how to reheat them: If you’re using the microwave, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely to allow steam to escape. Heat it on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes depending on your microwave.
If you prefer to reheat on the stove, simply add a splash of beef broth or water to the skillet to help keep it moist. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until everything is hot and bubbly. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor of the dish, making it almost as good as when it was freshly made!
And remember, always give it a taste before serving to see if it needs any extra seasoning after reheating. Enjoy your cozy meal again!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for a serving of this hearty ground beef dish. Keep in mind that these values can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
This dish is not only delicious but also packs a good amount of protein, making it a filling option for dinner. Plus, it’s relatively low in calories, especially considering how satisfying it is. Perfect for a cozy meal without the guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier than beef, so you might want to add a splash more broth or a little olive oil to keep it moist.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions can elevate it even more!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cheese, then let it cool and store it in the fridge for 1-2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it gently and add the cheese until it’s melted and bubbly. It’s a great time-saver for busy nights!
How do I store leftovers?
Let the leftovers cool down before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, portion them out and freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to label them so you know what’s what!
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you love. Zucchini, corn, or even spinach would all work wonderfully. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on how long those veggies take to become tender!
Ground Beef Recipes for Dinner Easy: 7 Flavorful Tips!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A simple yet flavorful ground beef dish perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 15 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in cooked rice and mix well.
- Top with shredded cheese and cover until melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Variations can include adding bell peppers or black beans.
- For a spicy kick, add chili powder or jalapeños.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: ground beef recipes for dinner easy
