Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying dinner recipe? Look no further! This Ground Beef and Avocado Stuffed Avocados recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend brunch. It’s a delicious fusion of savory ground beef and creamy avocado, creating a healthy and flavorful meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas. It's a testament to how simple homemade cooking can be, resulting in delicious dishes that are far superior to takeout. This recipe also showcases some of the best recipes using readily available ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Filling
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Stuff the Avocados
Gently spoon the ground beef mixture into the avocado halves. Be careful not to overfill.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish each stuffed avocado with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and ground chuck.
- If you prefer a milder dish, omit the cayenne pepper.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture.
- To prevent the avocados from browning, lightly brush them with lime juice before stuffing.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Variations:
- Cheese lovers rejoice! Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese over the stuffed avocados before serving.
- Add some veggies! Incorporate diced bell peppers or corn into the ground beef mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
- Make it a complete meal! Serve the stuffed avocados with a side of rice, quinoa, or a simple salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Ground Beef and Avocado Stuffed Avocados recipe is a fantastic example of healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-prepare food recipes. It's a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a more leisurely weekend meal. It’s a recipe that easily adapts to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!