Summer evenings call for simple, satisfying meals, and this hamburger and corn recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s a quick dinner idea, packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. Forget complicated recipes; this one is all about fresh ingredients and easy preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. This recipe is a celebration of classic American flavors, elevated by a few simple touches. It's a healthy meal that’s surprisingly versatile—perfect for customizing to your liking.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Toppings of your choice (lettuce, tomato, cheese, etc.)
Instructions:
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Prep the Onions and Garlic: 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 a delicious base of flavor for your dish.
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Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes, draining off any excess grease. Ensure the beef is fully cooked for food safety.
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Add the Corn and Seasoning: Stir in the drained corn, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat, and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened.
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Assemble the Hamburgers: Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Spoon the hamburger and corn mixture onto the bottom buns. Add your favorite toppings and cover with the top buns.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, while the corn is still juicy and the beef is tender.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the ground beef for 30 minutes before cooking in a mixture of Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, and your favorite herbs.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as chopped bell peppers or mushrooms, to the skillet along with the onions and garlic.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad for a well-rounded and healthy meal.
Variations:
- BBQ Hamburger and Corn: Substitute BBQ sauce for the Worcestershire sauce and add a touch of brown sugar.
- Mexican Hamburger and Corn: Add a diced jalapeño, cumin, and chili powder to the skillet. Top with shredded cheese, salsa, and sour cream.
- Cheese Lovers Delight: Add a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking to melt beautifully into the mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 (depending on toppings and bun choice) Protein: 30-35g Fat: 25-30g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This easy and delicious hamburger and corn recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. The combination of savory beef, sweet corn, and aromatic spices is sure to please everyone. Enjoy!