Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This recipe combines the freshness of green beans with the heartiness of ground beef, creating a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. It's one of those easy recipes that's both healthy and impressive, making it a go-to for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (lean or regular, your preference!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and halved (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup beef broth (optional, for extra moisture)
Instructions:
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Brown the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the remaining ingredients: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), green beans, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
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Simmer: If you prefer a moister dish, add the beef broth now. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp. Frozen green beans may require slightly less cooking time.
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Serve: Serve hot as a quick dinner idea. You can enjoy this dish on its own or serve it over rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for a more complete meal.
Tips for the Best Green Beans and Ground Beef:
- Don't overcook the green beans: You want them to be tender-crisp, not mushy. Start checking for doneness around 15 minutes.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice to suit your preferences. A pinch of red pepper flakes could add a nice kick!
- Add other vegetables: This recipe is easily customizable. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.
- Make it a complete protein: Serve this dish with a side of whole-grain bread or a simple salad for a well-rounded and healthy meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Green Beans and Ground Beef: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier dish.
- Creamy Green Beans and Ground Beef: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier texture.
- Cheesy Green Beans and Ground Beef: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the top during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams
This easy recipe for green beans and ground beef is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and delicious dishes. It's a great example of quick dinner ideas that don’t compromise on flavor or nutrition. Enjoy!