Are you looking for delicious and easy ground beef recipes? Do you have 1.2 lbs of ground beef and need some inspiration? Look no further! This recipe offers a versatile and satisfying meal perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner. We'll transform that 1.2 lbs of ground beef into a hearty, flavorful dish that's both quick to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is designed for you. Let's get cooking!
Hearty One-Pan Beef and Vegetable Skillet
This one-pan wonder requires minimal cleanup and maximizes flavor. It’s a perfect example of healthy meals that are also incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1.2 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: ½ cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for achieving a flavorful base for your dish.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't rush this step; properly sautéed vegetables add depth of flavor.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. This is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are easy to achieve at home.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and ground chuck.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Variations:
- Taco Skillet: Omit the oregano and basil. Add 1 packet of taco seasoning, 1 cup of water, and your favorite taco toppings.
- Spicy Beef Skillet: Add a jalapeño pepper, along with a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Cheesy Beef Skillet: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This recipe is a testament to how easy it is to create healthy meals using simple ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick dinner idea that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition. Enjoy your homemade cooking! This recipe is sure to become one of your best recipes!