Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy dinner recipe that won't keep you chained to the stove all evening? Look no further! This ground beef and quinoa recipe is a perfect weeknight meal, packed with protein and flavor. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, and it's surprisingly quick to prepare, making it one of the best recipes for busy weeknights. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for you. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, your preference)
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
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Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
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Brown the Beef: While the quinoa is cooking, 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.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Stew: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Combine and Serve: Stir the cooked quinoa into the beef and vegetable mixture. Heat through for a few minutes. Serve hot, topped with your favorite additions like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro. This makes a perfect quick dinner idea!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian ground beef for a hearty vegetarian meal.
- Meal Prep Magic: This recipe is excellent for meal prepping. Prepare a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe's nutritional information will vary based on the specific ingredients used. However, a typical serving provides a good source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient choices.
This ground beef and quinoa recipe offers a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Its versatility allows for easy customization based on your preferences and dietary needs. It's a great way to enjoy a delicious and healthy homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen, offering a fantastic solution for those seeking quick dinner ideas and easy recipes. Enjoy!