Ground Beef Made Easy: Quick and Delicious Recipes for Busy Nights

There’s something delightfully comforting about the words “ground beef easy.” It conjures memories of cozy evenings in the Devon countryside where the kitchen was filled with the aroma of simple, hearty dishes that seemed to warm not just the tummy but the soul. Growing up, I learned from my mum, a retired baker, that the best recipes often are the simplest, much like the ground beef dishes we used to whip up on chilly evenings, surrounded by laughter and a hint of magic in the air.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Easy

If you’re anything like me, you’ll adore this ground beef easy recipe for its sheer simplicity and the way it brings people together. It reminds me of those Sunday afternoons when we’d gather around our too-small table, sharing stories and laughter over a meal that was as much about the company as it was about the food. This dish is quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and so versatile that you can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Ground Beef Easy

Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need for this deliciously simple dish. As always, feel free to make substitutions based on what you have available—after all, cooking is all about making it your own.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas and carrots)

For substitutions, you can swap ground beef for ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian twist. Fresh herbs can replace dried ones if you have them at hand.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a quick overview of what you’re getting nutrition-wise from a generous serving of this ground beef easy: Learn more: Delicious Ground Beef Recipes for Quick Weeknight Dinners

• Calories: 360 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg

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Steps to Create Your Ground Beef Easy

Follow these simple steps to bring this dish to life, each one infused with the warmth and charm of a Devon kitchen.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they’re softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns. Cook until no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to cook with the beef for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
4. Add the canned tomatoes, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. If you’re using mixed vegetables, add them now. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
6. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary. Serve hot, possibly over some freshly cooked pasta or a bed of fluffy rice.

One tip I picked up from mum is to let the dish rest off the heat for a few minutes before serving. It allows the flavors to settle, much like how a good story finds its ending.

Tips for Making the Best Ground Beef Easy

Here are a few tips to ensure your ground beef easy turns out perfect every time:

“Cooking is like painting a memory,” as mum would say, so don’t rush the process. Let each step unfold naturally.

• Use fresh ingredients where possible. Fresh onions and garlic make a world of difference.
• Don’t skimp on the simmering time. Letting it simmer allows the flavors to deepen and develop.
• Experiment with spices. A dash of chili powder or smoked paprika can add a delightful twist.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This ground beef easy is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

• Serve over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
• Pair with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• For a bit of crunch, serve with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of this dish are a gift from the culinary gods, as the flavors continue to develop over time. Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for ground beef easy?

The main ingredients for ground beef easy include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make ground beef easy?

The total time to make ground beef easy includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make ground beef easy ahead of time?

Yes, ground beef easy can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with ground beef easy?

ground beef easy pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is ground beef easy suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, ground beef easy may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

This ground beef easy recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather, to share, and to create memories just as I did in the warmth of my family’s Devon kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or with loved ones, I hope it brings a slice of my world to your table, filled with comfort and joy.