Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes that features ground beef. This dish is not just simple and delicious, but it’s also perfect for beginners. I remember the first time I made it—my family couldn’t get enough! Imagine tender ground beef paired with zesty diced tomatoes and topped with gooey melted cheese, all served over a bed of pasta. Yum! It’s a quick meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your cooking rotation. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on this scrumptious adventure!

Ingredients List

Before we start cooking, let’s gather everything we need. It’s super important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go, so you can focus on making this delicious dish without any stress. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups cooked pasta
• 1 cup shredded cheese

Make sure to have everything measured out—this makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable. And remember, if you want to add a little more flavor, you can always tweak the seasoning to your liking!

How to Prepare Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s jump into the cooking process! I promise it’s straightforward and fun—just follow along with me, and we’ll have a delicious meal in no time.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

First things first, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the pound of ground beef, breaking it apart with your spatula as it cooks. You’ll want to brown it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. That sizzling sound? Ah, it’s music to my ears! Just make sure the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary—nobody wants a greasy dish!

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir it all together and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the onion becomes soft and translucent, and your kitchen starts smelling amazing. Seriously, the aroma of garlic just makes everything better!

Step 3: Mix in Diced Tomatoes and Seasoning

Now it’s time to add in the star of the show—those zesty diced tomatoes! Pour in the can along with the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial; it allows all those yummy flavors to meld together beautifully. So, resist the urge to skip it—your taste buds will thank you later!

Step 4: Combine with Cooked Pasta

After the mixture has simmered, it’s time for the pasta! Add the 2 cups of cooked pasta to the skillet and mix everything together thoroughly. You want every bit of pasta coated in that savory beef-tomato goodness. Just imagine how comforting this dish is going to be!

Step 5: Top with Cheese

Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for just a few minutes, until the cheese is all gooey and melted. This is the moment we’ve been waiting for—trust me, it’s worth it! Once it’s melted, serve it up hot, and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: It comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something delicious.
• Beginner-Friendly: The steps are straightforward and simple, so even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll feel like a pro in no time!
• Flavorful: With the combination of ground beef, zesty tomatoes, and gooey cheese, each bite is bursting with flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or changing the seasonings to match your taste.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.

Tips for Success

To make sure your dish turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got some handy tips just for you! These little nuggets of wisdom will help you navigate any hiccups and elevate your cooking game:

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep your dish lower in fat, which makes for a healthier meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Experiment with Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add in some chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even zucchini! They add great flavor and nutrition, plus they make the dish even more colorful.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your mixture as you cook! Adjust the seasoning to your liking—everyone’s palate is different, and you want it to be just right for you.
• Leftover Love: If you have leftovers, consider using them in a wrap or on top of a baked potato the next day. It’s a great way to give new life to your meal!
• Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allowing the mixture to simmer for those 10 minutes really helps the flavors meld together, so be patient! It’s worth the wait.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make this recipe a smashing success! Happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up, this recipe is super flexible! Here are some fun variations to try that’ll keep things fresh and exciting:

• Herb Infusion: Instead of using Italian seasoning, why not experiment with fresh herbs? Try adding basil, oregano, or thyme for a delightful twist. Fresh herbs really brighten up the dish!
• Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you mix in the tomatoes. It adds a spicy zing that pairs perfectly with the beef!
• Whole Grain Pasta: For a healthier option, swap out regular pasta for whole grain or even zucchini noodles. It’s a great way to sneak in extra nutrients while still enjoying all the flavors.
• Cheese Variety: Change up the cheese! Try using mozzarella for a classic stretch or cheddar for a sharp bite. You can even mix in some cream cheese for extra creaminess!
• Protein Switch: Not in the mood for beef? Substitute with ground turkey or chicken instead. They provide a lighter option while still delivering on flavor.
• Veggie Delight: Go all out with your vegetable game! Toss in some mushrooms, carrots, or peas for added texture and nutrition. You can never go wrong with more veggies!

With these variations, you can make this dish uniquely yours every time you cook it. So, don’t be shy—get creative and enjoy the process! Each version can bring a new flavor profile that keeps your family coming back for more.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve savored this delicious ground beef dish, let’s talk about how to store those tasty leftovers! Proper storage is key to keeping your meal fresh and flavorful for the next day (or two!). Here’s what you need to do:

• Cool Before Storing: Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your food soggy.
• Airtight Container: Store the leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can also use plastic wrap or aluminum foil, but a container works best for longer storage.
• Refrigerate: Keep your stored leftovers in the refrigerator and enjoy them within 3-4 days for the best taste and quality. If you think you won’t finish it in that time, consider freezing it instead!

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is super easy:

• Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Make sure it’s heated all the way through!
• Stovetop: For the best flavor, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method is great if you’re reheating a larger portion!

And voilà! You’re all set to enjoy those leftovers without losing any of that deliciousness. Trust me, it’s just as good the second time around!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s take a look at the nutritional information for this hearty ground beef dish. It’s always good to know what’s going into your meal, right? Below are the estimated values per serving, which is about 1 cup. Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 25g

These numbers show that this dish is not only delicious but also packs a good amount of protein, making it a satisfying choice for any meal. Enjoy the flavors while keeping an eye on your nutritional needs—it’s all about balance!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! If you’re not in the mood for ground beef, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they may vary slightly.

What can I add for extra flavor?
Great question! You can try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some soy sauce for an extra depth of flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley sprinkled on top before serving can also brighten up the dish!

How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. There are many options available now that cook up beautifully and taste great. Just check the labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs!

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the beef and tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it, mix in the pasta, and top with cheese!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they should be good for 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just make sure to cool the dish first before freezing!

Recipes Ground Beef: 5 Simple Steps for a Delicious Meal

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A simple and delicious ground beef recipe that’s perfect for beginners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups cooked pasta
• 1 cup shredded cheese

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add the cooked pasta and mix well.
6. Sprinkle cheese on top and cover until melted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

• Use lean ground beef for less fat.
• Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: recipes ground beef