Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, easy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This ground beef peppers onions recipe is a classic for a reason – it's simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this recipe is a go-to for both beginner cooks and seasoned pros looking for a quick and healthy dinner option. Get ready to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal that the whole family will love!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (lean or regular, your preference)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This step builds a delicious base of flavor for your dish.
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Brown the 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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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (both cans), chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the sauce has thickened slightly. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve hot. This hearty dish is perfect on its own, or you can serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Ground Beef Peppers Onions:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick, or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper, savory taste.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the beef, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Working in batches ensures the beef browns properly and doesn't steam.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili powder.
- Make it a complete meal: Add a can of kidney beans or black beans for extra protein and fiber.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Beef Peppers and Onions: Add a diced jalapeño pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for some extra heat.
- Cheesy Beef Peppers and Onions: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese over the top during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Taco-Spiced Beef Peppers and Onions: Replace the chili powder and cumin with a taco seasoning packet for a Mexican-inspired twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-400 (depending on ground beef leanness and serving size)
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams
This nutritious and flavorful dish is a great source of protein and vegetables, making it a healthy and satisfying meal choice. Enjoy this easy and delicious recipe for a quick and easy weeknight dinner! It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – delicious, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. This is definitely one of the best recipes for busy weeknights!