How To Make Ground Beef Dinner: The Easy Way!

Ground beef is a versatile and affordable ingredient that can be transformed into a variety of delicious and satisfying dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a hearty family dinner, this guide will provide you with all the essential steps and tips you need to make a perfect ground beef dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 90/10)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

#1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink and is cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

#2. Add the Veggies

Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

#3. Season the Mixture

Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

#4. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the ground beef mixture over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, or your favorite toppings.

Variations and Additions

• Taco Night: Add taco seasoning to the ground beef mixture and serve it in tortillas with your favorite taco toppings.
• Shepherd’s Pie: Top the ground beef mixture with mashed potatoes and bake until golden brown.
• Sloppy Joes: Serve the ground beef mixture on hamburger buns and top with your favorite sloppy joe sauce.
• Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with the ground beef mixture and bake until the peppers are tender.
• Ground Beef and Bean Burritos: Add a can of black beans or kidney beans to the ground beef mixture and wrap it in tortillas.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef

• Use an 80/20 or 90/10 ground beef for a balance of flavor and tenderness.
• Break up the ground beef into small pieces before cooking to ensure even browning.
• Don’t overcook the ground beef, as it will become tough and dry.
• Drain any excess fat to reduce calories and improve the texture.
• Season the ground beef generously to enhance its flavor.

Finishing Touches

• Garnish: Sprinkle the ground beef dinner with chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or crumbled feta cheese.
• Serve with Sides: Pair the ground beef dinner with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp green salad.
• Store Leftovers: Store any leftover ground beef dinner in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

The Perfect Pairing: Sides for Ground Beef

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to any ground beef dish.
• Rice: Fluffy and versatile, rice absorbs the flavorful sauce and complements the ground beef.
• Green Salad: A crisp and refreshing green salad adds balance and nutrition to the meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful and flavorful, roasted vegetables add a healthy and vibrant touch.
• Bread or Rolls: Warm, crusty bread or rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Beyond the Basics: Experimenting with Ground Beef

• Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash: Combine ground beef with sweet potatoes, onions, and peppers for a savory and satisfying breakfast or brunch.
• Ground Beef and Cabbage Rolls: Stuff cabbage leaves with a mixture of ground beef, rice, and vegetables for a hearty and traditional dish.
• Ground Beef and Zucchini Lasagna: Layer ground beef, zucchini, and cheese in a casserole dish for a low-carb and flavorful take on lasagna.
• Ground Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff: Cook ground beef with mushrooms and a creamy sauce for a comforting and elegant meal.
• Ground Beef and Quinoa Burrito Bowls: Combine ground beef, quinoa, beans, and vegetables in a bowl for a healthy and customizable meal.

Conclusion: A Versatile and Delicious Ingredient

Ground beef is a versatile and affordable ingredient that can be transformed into a variety of delicious and satisfying dishes. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can create a perfect ground beef dinner that will be enjoyed by your family and friends. So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, reach for some ground beef and get ready to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying dinner.

FAQ

Q: What is the best ratio of ground beef to vegetables for a balanced meal?
A: A good ratio is 1 pound of ground beef to 1 cup of chopped vegetables. This provides a balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins.

Q: Can I use frozen ground beef in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen ground beef. Thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even browning.

Q: How do I know when the ground beef is cooked through?
A: The ground beef is cooked through when it is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.