Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This ground beef and marinara recipe is a winner for busy weeknights, impressing both family and friends with its rich flavors and minimal fuss. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you to create a truly satisfying dish. It's the perfect example of homemade cooking at its best, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to takeout.
Ingredients: A Simple List for a Flavorful Feast
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous dinner.
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, your preference)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ½ tsp red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: Your Guide to Deliciousness
This simple recipe is a great example of easy recipes that don’t compromise on taste.
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Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in 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.
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Sauté 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.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. If using, add the red pepper flakes now. 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.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious ground beef and marinara over your favorite pasta, rice, or polenta. You can also use it as a filling for stuffed peppers or baked potatoes, showcasing the versatility of this delicious dish.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Dish
- For a deeper flavor: Use a combination of crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. A pinch of cayenne pepper also adds a nice kick.
- Add vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms along with the onions.
- Make it ahead: This recipe tastes even better the next day! Prepare it ahead of time and reheat gently before serving.
Variations: Explore the Possibilities!
- Meatless Monday: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Italian Sausage: Add Italian sausage along with the ground beef for a richer, more flavorful dish.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra spicy element.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients used. This is an estimate for a serving of approximately 1 cup:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This recipe is a quick dinner idea, a perfect healthy meal, and a delicious example of what you can achieve with simple ingredients. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish!