Are you tired of complicated recipes and endless meal prep? Craving a delicious and hearty dinner that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then this slow cooker ground beef recipe is your answer! This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal with minimal effort. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, delivering a delicious dish the whole family will love. Get ready to enjoy this quick dinner idea that's packed with flavor and incredibly versatile.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon brown sugar (for a touch of sweetness)
Instructions:
-
Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off any excess grease. This step adds depth of flavor to your final dish.
-
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. This simple step enhances the overall taste profile.
-
Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Transfer the browned beef and onion mixture to your slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and brown sugar (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
-
Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors become.
-
Serve: Serve the slow cooker ground beef over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish. This recipe is incredibly versatile.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and ground chuck.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or celery for extra nutrients and flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the recipe to your liking.
Variations:
- Spicy Ground Beef: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick. This is a great way to add a delicious twist.
- Taco Ground Beef: Omit the oregano and basil and add 1 packet of taco seasoning instead. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and your favorite taco toppings. This makes for a fantastic and quick taco filling.
- BBQ Ground Beef: Stir in 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce during the last hour of cooking. Serve on buns for delicious BBQ sliders.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This slow cooker ground beef recipe is a simple, healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one certainly delivers on flavor and convenience. Enjoy!