Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy meal? Look no further! This recipe combines the heartiness of ground beef with the creamy goodness of avocados for a truly satisfying and flavorful dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering, this ground beef and avocado recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It's packed with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors – a win-win for both your taste buds and your well-being! Let's dive into this exciting culinary adventure.
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, your preference!)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (optional, for garnish)
- Tortilla chips or rice for serving
Instructions:
Get started: 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.
Spice it up: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromatic goodness.
Simmer to perfection: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Assemble your masterpiece: Gently stir in the diced avocados. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to retain the avocado's texture. Serve immediately over tortilla chips or rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro and cotija cheese, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Avocado ripeness: Use ripe, but not overripe, avocados for the best texture and flavor. Gently squeeze the avocado; it should yield to gentle pressure.
- Spice level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or corn, to the skillet along with the onions.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Variations:
- Taco Tuesday Twist: Add a packet of taco seasoning instead of individual spices for a quick and easy taco-inspired dish.
- Creamy Dream: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace the ground beef with seasoned lentils or black beans for a hearty vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This is an estimate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This simple yet satisfying ground beef and avocado recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. The combination of rich ground beef and creamy avocado creates a delicious and healthy dish that's sure to impress. Enjoy!