Are you looking for a comforting, satisfying meal that’s easy on the wallet and even easier to make? Then look no further! This Poor Man's Meal recipe is a classic for a reason – it's incredibly delicious, budget-friendly, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This hearty dish boasts simple ingredients that come together beautifully to create a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. It's a fantastic example of how delicious and satisfying homemade cooking can be, proving that healthy meals don't have to break the bank. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Brown the meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and flavorful sauce.
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Cook the pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions.
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Combine and serve: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the pot with the sauce. Stir gently to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Veggie boost: Include chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to add extra vegetables and nutrients. This is a great way to sneak in extra healthy ingredients, making it a perfect quick dinner idea.
- Cheese please: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top before serving for extra cheesy goodness.
- Make it a one-pot wonder: For even easier cleanup, cook the pasta directly in the sauce during the last 10-12 minutes of simmering. Just be sure to add enough water to cover the pasta and adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Leftovers are a gift: This dish tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 20-25g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
This Poor Man's Meal recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious and easy recipes don't have to be complicated or expensive. It’s a perfect example of budget-friendly cooking that doesn't compromise on flavor or satisfaction. Enjoy!