Ground beef is one of the most versatile ingredients you can have in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, looking for an easy dinner option, or craving comfort food, a recipe with ground beef is your go-to solution. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and pairs beautifully with an endless array of flavors. In this article, we will dive into a delicious, easy-to-make recipe with ground beef that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also save you time in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe with Ground Beef
There are countless reasons why ground beef is a staple in kitchens around the world, and this recipe will show you just how fantastic it can be. From its budget-friendly nature to its incredible versatility, ground beef shines in many ways. Here’s why this recipe with ground beef should become your next go-to meal:
Quick and Easy: Preparing a meal with ground beef doesn’t take hours. The steps are simple and straightforward, perfect for those busy nights when you need something hearty in a flash.
Versatile: Ground beef can be transformed into a variety of dishes. Whether you prefer tacos, pasta, or casseroles, ground beef adapts to whatever you’re craving.
Affordable: Compared to other meats, ground beef is a wallet-friendly option, making it the ideal choice for families and anyone on a budget.
Flavor-Packed: The rich, savory taste of ground beef pairs wonderfully with almost any seasoning or sauce, making it easy to create a flavorful dish every time.
Ingredients for This Recipe with Ground Beef
Before you dive into this simple recipe with ground beef, gather the following ingredients. These are the essentials that will bring out the best flavors in your dish. You’ll be surprised at how a few ingredients can transform into a satisfying meal.
Ground beef – Use lean ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture. You can substitute with turkey or chicken, but the texture and flavor may change.
Onion – Adds sweetness and depth. Yellow onions are best, but red or white onions work too.
Garlic – Fresh garlic is preferred for stronger flavor, but minced garlic from a jar can be used if needed.
Bell pepper – Adds crunch and a sweet flavor. Red or yellow peppers are sweeter than green ones.
Tomato paste – Thickens the sauce and adds a rich, concentrated tomato flavor.
Crushed tomatoes – The base for the sauce, providing a slightly tangy taste. Canned is most common, but fresh works too.
Beef broth – Adds depth and helps thicken the sauce. Chicken or vegetable broth can be used as alternatives.
Olive oil – For sautéing the beef and vegetables. You can use vegetable oil if preferred.
Spices – Salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin balance the flavor of the dish. Adjust based on taste.
How to Make This Flavorful Recipe with Ground Beef
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time.
Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by chopping your onion, bell pepper, and garlic. You’ll also want to have your ground beef ready and season it with a bit of salt and pepper. Prepping the ingredients ahead of time will make the cooking process even quicker.
Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up into small crumbles with a spatula. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly and gets a nice brown color. This should take about 5–7 minutes.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet with the browned ground beef. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
Simmer with Tomato Paste and Crushed Tomatoes
Now, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1–2 minutes. This helps deepen the flavor. Add the crushed tomatoes and beef broth to the skillet. Stir everything together, making sure it’s well mixed.
Season the Dish
Add your spices to the mixture: paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. You can adjust the seasoning according to your taste. If you like a little heat, consider adding chili powder or cayenne pepper at this stage.
Simmer to Combine Flavors
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the dish is cooked, serve it hot. You can garnish it with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro if desired. Pair it with your favorite side dish, and you have a complete, flavorful meal.
Expert Tips for Making the Perfect Recipe with Ground Beef
Drain Excess Fat: If you’re using fatty ground beef, be sure to drain any excess fat after browning the meat. This will help keep the dish from becoming too greasy and ensure a better texture.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can be added at the end of cooking for a burst of freshness.
Don’t Overcook the Beef: Ground beef can become tough if overcooked. Make sure to brown it just until it’s no longer pink and then let it simmer in the sauce to retain its tenderness.
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier version, don’t hesitate to add hot sauce, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños during cooking.
Make It Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will develop even more, making it perfect for meal prep.
Variations of This Recipe with Ground Beef
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can make it your own by adding or changing a few ingredients. Here are a few ways to customize this dish:
Add Vegetables: Add diced carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
Cheesy Version: Mix in some shredded mozzarella or parmesan for a cheesy twist. Alternatively, top the dish with cheese and bake it for a melty, cheesy crust.
Make It Spicy: Add diced green chilies or hot sauce to the mix for a spicy kick that will satisfy any heat lover.
Healthy Swap: For a lighter version, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This will lower the fat content without compromising the taste.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your recipe with ground beef is ready, it’s time to think about what to serve it with. Here are some tasty sides that complement the dish perfectly:
Rice: Serve this dish with steamed white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a filling and nutritious meal.
Mashed Potatoes: The richness of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory ground beef mixture.
Fresh Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with leafy greens like spinach or arugula will balance the heaviness of the beef and add a refreshing element.
Tacos or Tortillas: If you’re in the mood for something fun, wrap the beef mixture in tortillas and turn it into tacos. Top with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, salsa, or avocado.
FAQ: Recipe with Ground Beef
What are the best spices for ground beef?
Some of the best spices for ground beef include paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder. These bring out the natural flavors of the meat and complement a wide variety of dishes.
Can I use frozen ground beef?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. If you’re in a rush, you can also cook it from frozen, but it will take a bit longer to brown.
How do I keep ground beef from being greasy?
To avoid greasy ground beef, use lean cuts of beef (such as 90% lean or higher). After browning, drain any excess fat before adding the vegetables and seasonings.
Can I make this dish without beef broth?
Yes! If you don’t have beef broth, you can substitute with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water. Just add a little more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Recipe with Ground Beef
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef lean
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can crushed tomatoes 14.5 oz
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- to taste spices salt, pepper, paprika, cumin
Instructions
- Start by chopping your onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Prepare the ground beef by seasoning it with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up into crumbles. Stir occasionally to brown evenly, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
- Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1–2 minutes. Add the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine.
- Season the dish with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Serve hot with your choice of sides, and enjoy!