Hey there, fellow food lovers! I’m so excited to share one of my absolute favorite meals with ground beef that’s not only simple but also downright delicious! Seriously, cooking doesn’t have to be complicated, and this dish proves just that. Picture this: juicy ground beef, aromatic garlic, and sweet onions mingling together in a cozy skillet. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want something hearty and satisfying, this meal will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef (make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor!)
- 1 medium onion, chopped (the bigger the chop, the more flavor, right?)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (don’t be shy with the garlic; it adds a lovely aroma!)
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes (the canned ones are super convenient—no chopping required!)
- 1 cup beef broth (this adds depth; you can also use chicken broth if you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste; I like mine a bit salty!)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is best for a little kick!)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (this is my secret weapon to elevate the flavor)
- 2 cups cooked pasta (any shape you like; it soaks up all that yummy sauce!)
How to Prepare Meals with Ground Beef
Alright, let’s get cooking! This is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s super easy. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
First things first, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm, add your pound of ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. You want it to brown evenly, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Oh, and here’s a little tip: remember to drain any excess fat after browning to keep your meal from getting greasy!
Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic
Next, it’s time to bring in the flavor! Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir it all together and let that cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step makes your kitchen smell absolutely divine!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now, let’s layer in some more goodness. Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir to combine everything. Bring this mixture to a boil—don’t worry, it’ll get there quickly! Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add Cooked Pasta
After your sauce has simmered and thickened up a bit, it’s time to add the cooked pasta. Gently fold it into the beef mixture, making sure every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious sauce. This is where comfort food really shines!
Step 5: Serve Hot
Now, all that’s left is to serve it up hot! I love to dish this out into bowls and maybe sprinkle a little extra Italian seasoning on top for presentation. Enjoy every bite of your hearty meal—it’s a warm, inviting dish that’s sure to please!
Tips for Success
Cooking is all about having fun, but I’ve got a few tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your dish! First, make sure to drain that excess fat after browning the beef—it keeps your meal from being too greasy. If you want to sneak in some extra veggies, bell peppers or spinach are fantastic additions. Just toss them in when you add the onion and garlic! And don’t forget to taste as you go; adjusting seasoning can make a world of difference. Trust me, these little tweaks will take your meal to the next level!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! This meal is not just delicious but also balanced. Each serving is estimated to have around 400 calories, making it a hearty option for dinner. You’re looking at about 15 grams of fat, with 5 grams being saturated fat. It packs a punch with 25 grams of protein, which is fantastic for keeping you full! Plus, it has about 45 grams of carbohydrates and 3 grams of fiber to keep things moving. Remember, these values can vary based on specific brands and ingredients, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! If you want to switch things up, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Both will work beautifully and still give you that satisfying texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try ground pork or even a mix of meats for a unique flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust your cooking time slightly if you’re using a leaner meat, as they might cook faster!
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers? Yes, please! You can store any extra meal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or pop it in the microwave for a quick fix. Just make sure to stir occasionally for even heating. It’s just as tasty the second time around!
What can I add for extra flavor?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten things up, too! You can also sneak in some veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms when you add the onion and garlic. They’ll not only enhance the flavor but also pack in some extra nutrition!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
- Hearty and filling, with a comforting blend of flavors.
- Flexible recipe—add veggies or swap in different meats to suit your taste!
- Great for meal prep; leftovers are just as delicious the next day.
- Kid-friendly and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty meal pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness. You could also serve some garlic bread for that extra touch of comfort—who doesn’t love dipping bread into flavorful sauces? If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a delightful finishing touch. Enjoy your meal with a glass of your favorite beverage, and you’re all set for a cozy dinner!
Print
Meals with Ground Beef: 5 Simple Steps to Yummy Comfort!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and delicious meal using ground beef.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups cooked pasta
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta and mix well.
- Serve hot and enjoy your meal.
Notes
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the beef.
- Try adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: meals with ground beef
