Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that's both easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further! This ground beef and mushroom recipe is a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that delivers big on taste without sacrificing simplicity. This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients elevated to a delicious and satisfying dish. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, you'll find this recipe incredibly easy to follow. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet 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 the foundation of flavor for our delicious dish.
Step 2: 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. Make sure the beef is thoroughly cooked to avoid any food safety concerns.
Step 3: Add the Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they have released their moisture and are nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a lovely earthy depth to our healthy meal.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect on its own or served over your favorite pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of cremini and shiitake mushrooms.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when browning the ground beef; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance this healthy meal further by adding other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese or cream cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 25-30g Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This ground beef and mushroom recipe is a fantastic example of an easy recipe that's both delicious and satisfying. It's a perfect quick dinner idea for those busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!