Are you craving a hearty, satisfying meal that’s both delicious and relatively easy to make? Look no further! This recipe combines the irresistible smoky flavor of bacon with the richness of beef, creating a dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion in every bite!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Crisp the Bacon: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving about 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the skillet.
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Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Simmer the Stew: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the sauce has thickened slightly. This allows for the best development of flavor in this delicious dish.
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Serve and Enjoy: Stir in the crispy bacon. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. This is perfect served with rice, cornbread, or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Bacon and Beef Recipe:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the ground beef, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will help the beef brown properly and prevent it from steaming.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- Use quality ingredients: The better the ingredients you use, the better your dish will taste. Look for lean ground beef and high-quality bacon.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is even better the next day! The flavors will have more time to meld. Make a big batch for leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, corn, or carrots.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chipotle powder or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25 grams
This bacon and beef recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Enjoy this homemade cooking masterpiece, a true testament to delicious dishes created with ease. It’s a great option for those seeking healthy meals and best recipes without compromising on taste. Enjoy!