Are you looking for a delicious and healthy dinner that's both satisfying and easy to make? Look no further! This ground beef and butternut squash recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, brimming with nutrients, and requires minimal cooking time. This recipe is a perfect example of how easy homemade cooking can be, delivering a delicious dish that rivals takeout any day. It's a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (lean or extra lean)
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 2 cups)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven 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.
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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.
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Add the Butternut Squash and Seasonings: Add the cubed butternut squash, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
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Simmer until Squash is Tender: Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the butternut squash is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect on its own or served over rice, quinoa, or couscous.
Tips for the Best Ground Beef Butternut Squash:
- Roasting the Squash: For a deeper flavor, you can roast the butternut squash cubes before adding them to the skillet. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. For a milder dish, omit them entirely. You could also add a pinch of cumin or chili powder for a different flavor profile.
- Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the skillet along with the butternut squash.
- Make it a Sheet Pan Meal: For even easier cleanup, roast the ground beef and vegetables on a large sheet pan.
Variations:
- Beef and Bean Butternut Squash: Add a can of kidney beans or black beans for extra protein and fiber.
- Creamy Butternut Squash and Beef: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier dish.
- Spicy Ground Beef and Butternut Squash: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño pepper for a spicier kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 5-7 grams
This ground beef and butternut squash recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s a testament to how delicious and easy healthy meals can be, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy this fantastic addition to your best recipes collection!