Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This Basil Ground Beef recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It's packed with fresh basil flavor, lean protein, and simple ingredients, making it a perfect example of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas for the whole family. This homemade cooking masterpiece is sure to become a new favorite among your delicious dishes. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. This simple step builds a wonderful flavor base for your ground beef.
Step 2: 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. Using lean ground beef helps to keep this a healthy meal option.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chopped basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the basil ground beef over pasta, rice, or polenta. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, and a sprinkle of extra fresh basil. This versatile dish pairs well with a simple side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Basil Ground Beef:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of fresh and dried basil.
- If you don't have fresh basil, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of dried basil. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent than fresh, so use less.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Basil Ground Beef: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Basil Ground Beef: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of lentils or crumbled vegetarian ground "beef" for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Basil Ground Turkey: Easily swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner protein option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Basil Ground Beef recipe is a perfect example of a healthy meal that's also quick and easy to make. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and best recipes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a casual weekend dinner. Enjoy!