Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dinner? Look no further! This ground beef and carrot recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in under 30 minutes. This simple recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a satisfying and flavorful meal without any fuss. Perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meals, this dish is a winner for the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, your preference)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 lbs carrots, peeled and sliced (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish.
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Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Ensure the beef is fully cooked through for food safety.
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Add the carrots and seasonings: Add the sliced carrots, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Simmer until tender: Pour in the beef broth (or water). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect on its own or served with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, celery, or zucchini.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamier texture.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like oregano or marjoram.
- Slow cooker option: For an even easier meal, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and onions as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the type of ground beef used and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 300-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This delicious ground beef and carrot recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that are both healthy and satisfying. It's a great addition to your collection of best recipes, offering a flavorful and nutritious meal ready in a flash. This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights, providing a wholesome and comforting dish without sacrificing taste or time. Enjoy!