Ground beef is like a culinary chameleon; it can transform into so many delightful dishes! From hearty tacos to comforting casseroles, the things to do with ground beef are practically endless. I remember the first time I made a savory beef stew with my grandma; the aroma filled the kitchen and wrapped around us like a warm hug. This recipe is one of my go-to favorites because it’s not only incredibly flavorful but also super versatile. You can easily adapt it to fit whatever you have on hand, whether it’s a handful of spices or some leftover veggies. Trust me, once you whip this up, you’ll be itching to experiment with your own twists. Let’s dive in and savor this delicious dish together!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but feel free to choose your favorite blend for more flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Dice the onion into small pieces to ensure even cooking and sweetness in your dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Mince the garlic finely to release its aromatic oils, adding depth to the flavor.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes: Canned tomatoes work well; just drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery dish.
- 1 cup beef broth: Choose low-sodium beef broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- 1 tsp salt: Adjust to taste, especially if using salted broth.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a lovely kick.
- 1 tsp paprika: Use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile.
- 1 tsp cumin: This spice brings a warm, earthy essence to the dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its robust flavor, but feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or pepper jack.
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly.
- Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant—oh, just wait until you smell that!
- Now, it’s time to stir in the diced tomatoes and the beef broth. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet; that’s where all the flavor lives! Add the salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin, and give everything a good stir.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken up beautifully.
- Once it’s thickened to your liking, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Cover the skillet for a couple of minutes until the cheese has melted into gooey perfection.
- Finally, serve this delicious dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs if you like a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and satisfying, it packs a punch with every bite.
- Incredibly versatile—swap out ingredients based on what you have!
- Comfort food at its finest; it warms you up from the inside out.
- Easily doubled or halved for family dinners or meal prep.
Tips for Success
To really elevate this dish, here are a few pro tips that I swear by! First, try browning the ground beef in batches if you’re making a larger quantity; this way, you get that lovely caramelization without steaming the meat. When you add the spices, let them cook for a minute or two before adding the liquids—this helps to bloom the flavors and makes a noticeable difference!
If the mixture seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more beef broth to reach your desired consistency. And remember, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro not only add flavor but also brighten up the dish visually. Finally, if you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days—just reheat gently to keep that cheesy goodness intact!
Variations
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability! You can easily modify it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. For a veggie-packed twist, consider adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn during the sautéing step. Not only will this boost the nutrition, but it also adds vibrant colors to your dish!
If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the spices. A touch of chili powder or taco seasoning can give it a zesty kick, transforming it into a Tex-Mex delight. Want to add some heartiness? Toss in a can of drained beans—black beans or kidney beans work beautifully—just adjust the liquid a bit to maintain the right consistency.
For those who love a creamy texture, stir in some cream cheese or sour cream just before serving, making every bite rich and indulgent. The options are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative and make this dish your own!
Nutritional Information
This recipe yields about 4 servings, and here’s a quick snapshot of its nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
Keep in mind that these values may vary based on the specific ingredients or brands you choose. It’s a nutritious option that packs a punch without compromising on flavor!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers is super easy and ensures you can enjoy this flavorful dish later! Just let the ground beef mixture cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it! Just portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it should last for about 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of beef broth or water if it seems a little dry—this will help bring back that luscious texture. You can also reheat it in the microwave; just cover it loosely to prevent splatters and heat in short intervals, stirring in between. Enjoy your delicious creation all over again!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen ground beef?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. If you’re in a pinch, you can microwave it on the defrost setting, but be careful not to start cooking it in the process.
What can I serve with this dish?
This flavorful ground beef mixture pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or even crusty bread. You can also serve it over a bed of greens for a lighter meal or stuff it into tacos for a fun twist!
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you’re looking for a kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when you mix in the spices. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for an extra kick of flavor!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve. It’s perfect for meal prep!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Things to Do with Ground Beef: 5 Flavorful Ideas!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A versatile recipe using ground beef to create a flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef.
- Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin.
- Simmer for 15 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Top with shredded cheese and cover until melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For added depth, use fresh herbs like thyme or oregano.
- Serve over rice or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Variations include adding beans or vegetables for more texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: ground beef, beef recipes, main dish, quick meals
