Ground Beef Family Dinner
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A hearty and comforting dish that brings the family together for a delicious meal.
This Ground Beef Family Dinner is not just a meal; it's a tradition that brings loved ones around the table. Packed with flavor and nutrition, this dish is a family favorite that can be enjoyed any day of the week.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Savory flavors that appeal to both kids and adults
- Versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables
A Family Favorite
Ground Beef Family Dinner is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings families together. This dish combines familiar flavors with wholesome ingredients, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. The savory aroma wafting from the kitchen is sure to draw everyone to the dinner table, ready to share stories and laughter over a hearty meal. With simple preparation and a short cooking time, you can create lasting memories without spending hours in the kitchen.
What makes this dish special is its ability to cater to varied tastes. From the rich flavor of the ground beef to the colorful vegetables, every bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Plus, it's easy to adapt—toss in your family's favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your preferences. This recipe is not just about feeding hungry bellies; it’s about nurturing family bonds and creating a joyful atmosphere.
Nutritional Boost
This Ground Beef Family Dinner packs a nutritional punch with a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which helps in muscle building and repair. When paired with colorful vegetables like bell peppers and mixed greens, you’re not only adding flavor but also boosting the dish’s vitamin content. This makes it a great option for families looking to serve nutritious meals without sacrificing taste.
Using frozen mixed vegetables is a smart choice for convenience and nutrition. They are often flash-frozen at peak freshness, locking in essential nutrients that might be lost in fresh produce during transportation. This means you can enjoy a vitamin-rich meal while saving time on prep. Additionally, serving this dish over rice provides a fulfilling carbohydrate source, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Customizable and Versatile
One of the many joys of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily modify it to incorporate the ingredients you have on hand or to suit your family's preferences. Whether you want to swap out ground beef for turkey or add in some extra veggies like zucchini or spinach, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability not only keeps mealtime exciting but also helps in reducing food waste by utilizing leftover ingredients.
Moreover, you can experiment with different flavor profiles by adding spices or sauces. A sprinkle of Italian herbs can give it a Mediterranean twist, while a dash of soy sauce can transform it into an Asian-inspired dish. This recipe encourages creativity in the kitchen, making it a perfect platform for culinary exploration. Whether you serve it as is or dress it up with your personal flair, it’s sure to be a hit at your family table.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all ingredients before you begin for a streamlined cooking process.
Cooking Instructions
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Sauté Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and frozen mixed vegetables. Bring to a simmer.
Mix with Rice
Add the cooked rice to the skillet, mixing well to combine all ingredients. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve
Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then serve hot. Enjoy!
Pair this dish with a side salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
For the best flavor, choose a ground beef with a higher fat content, such as 80/20. This will help keep the meat juicy and flavorful. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can also work well without compromising the dish's essence. Remember to season the beef while it's cooking to enhance its natural flavors.
When sautéing the vegetables, don't rush the process. Allow them to soften and develop their flavors before adding the remaining ingredients. This step is crucial for achieving a well-rounded taste in your final dish. Additionally, feel free to add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for an extra kick!
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish also freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just portion out servings and freeze them for quick dinners on busy nights. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
When reheating, adding a splash of beef broth or water can help restore moisture to the dish, preventing it from drying out. Serve it again over fresh rice or even in a wrap for a new take on the original recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Ground Beef Family Dinner with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to make it a complete meal. The freshness of a salad can balance the heartiness of the main dish, while bread can be perfect for soaking up any delicious juices left on your plate. You can also offer a variety of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions to let family members customize their servings.
For a fun twist, consider serving the beef mixture in taco shells or over baked potatoes. This not only adds variety to your meals but also engages the family in the dining experience, allowing everyone to build their perfect bite.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great low-fat alternative.
→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative and use vegetable broth.
→ Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread.
Ground Beef Family Dinner
A hearty and comforting dish that brings the family together for a delicious meal.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and frozen mixed vegetables. Bring to a simmer.
Add the cooked rice to the skillet, mixing well to combine all ingredients. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then serve hot. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g