Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further! This recipe for ground beef with peppers and onions is a classic for a reason. It’s a versatile dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or even a satisfying lunch. This recipe offers delicious homemade cooking, a healthy meal option, and is definitely one of the best recipes you'll find for a quick dinner idea.
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 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. This step builds a fantastic flavor base for your dish.
Step 2: 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. Using lean ground beef can help make this a lighter, healthier meal.
Step 3: Simmer the goodness
Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, taco seasoning, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors become!
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious ground beef, peppers, and onions hot. Top with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or chopped cilantro for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a truly comforting meal.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Different beans: Experiment with different types of beans like black beans or pinto beans.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ingredients used) Protein: Around 25-30 grams Fat: Varies based on beef type and oil used
This easy recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals you can make quickly. It’s also perfect for those exploring simple food recipes. Enjoy this delicious and versatile dish! It’s sure to become a staple in your quick dinner ideas repertoire.