Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that won't keep you in the kitchen all night? Then look no further! This ground beef and kale recipe is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that's packed with flavor and nutrients. It's a simple, homemade cooking solution that's both satisfying and surprisingly quick to prepare. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and even impresses guests with its delightful taste. Let's dive into this best recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, your preference)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped (about 10 oz)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
-
Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
-
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Add the Kale and Spices: Add the chopped kale, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper.
-
Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the kale is tender and wilted. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious ground beef and kale hot. This simple yet flavorful dish is a complete meal in itself, providing a healthy balance of protein and greens.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the kale: Overcooked kale can become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly vibrant green leaves.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes to your liking. Experiment with other herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Add other vegetables: Enhance your dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this hearty dish over rice, quinoa, or pasta for a more substantial meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Beef and Kale: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Beef and Kale with White Beans: Add a can of cannellini beans or great northern beans during the last 5 minutes of simmering for extra protein and fiber.
- Lemon-Herb Beef and Kale: Stir in the zest and juice of half a lemon at the end of cooking for a bright, fresh flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
- Fiber: Approximately 5-7g
This easy ground beef and kale recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals you can prepare quickly. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes, perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend dinner. Enjoy!