Ground Beef Family Dinner
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A hearty and comforting meal made with ground beef that's perfect for the whole family.
This Ground Beef Family Dinner is a delightful blend of flavors that brings everyone to the table. It's a dish that's not only satisfying but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings
- Rich and savory flavors that everyone will enjoy
- Versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite toppings
A Comforting Family Meal
Ground beef is a staple in many households, and for good reason. It’s not only affordable but also incredibly versatile. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious, hearty dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The combination of ground beef, vegetables, and pasta creates a filling meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week. Whether it’s a busy Wednesday or a relaxed Sunday dinner, this recipe fits seamlessly into your family’s routine.
One of the best aspects of this Ground Beef Family Dinner is its adaptability. You can easily swap out vegetables depending on what you have on hand or your family's preferences. Want to add some spinach or mushrooms? Go for it! The recipe is forgiving, allowing you to experiment and make it your own. This flexibility not only helps you use up what’s in your fridge but also encourages your family to become more adventurous eaters.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you’re looking for a dish that’s great for meal prep, look no further. This ground beef recipe is easy to double, making it perfect for larger families or for those who want leftovers for lunch the next day. Simply store any extra portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for later. Reheating is a breeze, as the flavors only get better over time, making it a convenient choice for busy households.
Meal prepping this dish also allows you to save time and energy during the week. By preparing a large batch, you can ensure that you have a nutritious meal ready to go, reducing the temptation to order takeout on hectic nights. With a little planning, you can enjoy home-cooked goodness without the hassle of daily cooking.
Enhancing Your Dish
While this recipe is delicious as it is, there are plenty of ways to elevate the dish even further. Consider topping your serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a burst of flavor that can transform the meal into something extraordinary.
Don’t forget about the power of sides! Pair this hearty ground beef dish with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread to round out your meal. These accompaniments will not only add variety but also increase the overall nutritional value of your dinner, making it a well-balanced feast for the whole family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked pasta
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all your ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are soft.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Simmer
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the mixture thickens.
Serve hot and enjoy your family dinner!
Storage Tips
To ensure your Ground Beef Family Dinner stays fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
When reheating, you may want to add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent the pasta from drying out. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, and enjoy the same comforting flavors as the first time you made it.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, consider serving this dish with a refreshing side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the greens will complement the savory richness of the ground beef and pasta, creating a balanced dining experience. You could also serve it with garlic bread for a comforting touch that everyone will love.
If your family enjoys a little heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to your individual servings. This small addition can take your meal to new flavor heights and cater to varied taste preferences around the dinner table.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.
→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth.
→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and cook it when you're ready to eat.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.
Ground Beef Family Dinner
A hearty and comforting meal made with ground beef that's perfect for the whole family.
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 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked pasta
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are soft.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the mixture thickens.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g