Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's also quick and easy to prepare? Look no further! This minced beef with mushrooms recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner solution, satisfying your taste buds without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. It’s a fantastic example of delicious dishes made with simple, readily available ingredients. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals, and it's easily adaptable to your preferences. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a leaner alternative like turkey or beef mince)
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced (or a mix of your favorite mushrooms)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked pasta or mashed potatoes (for serving)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot 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 the flavor base of 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. Ensure the beef is fully cooked to avoid foodborne illnesses.
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Add mushrooms and seasonings: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, and rosemary. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Simmer the sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded. This slow cooking process develops a rich, delicious sauce.
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Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the minced beef with mushrooms over your favorite side dish, such as cooked pasta, mashed potatoes, or even rice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Minced Beef with Mushrooms:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the beef, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will ensure even browning and prevent the meat from steaming instead of searing. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste! Opt for fresh mushrooms and herbs whenever possible.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your liking. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add extra layers of flavor.
- Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it for a quick and easy meal.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance your healthy meal by adding other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Spice it up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Cheese please: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the finished dish for an extra cheesy treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on serving size and additions)
- Protein: Around 30g
- Fat: Around 20g
- Carbohydrates: Around 15g (depending on the side dish)
This simple yet satisfying minced beef with mushrooms recipe is a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking endeavors. It's a great example of how easy it can be to create delicious and healthy meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!