Ground Beef Family Dinner
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, featuring ground beef and fresh vegetables.
This Ground Beef Family Dinner is not just a meal; it's a warm gathering around the table. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it's perfect for busy weeknights or family get-togethers.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Packed with flavor and nutrition from fresh vegetables.
- Comfort food that brings the family together.
A Family Favorite
Ground beef is a versatile and affordable protein that can easily be transformed into a variety of delicious meals. This Ground Beef Family Dinner is not only easy to prepare but also appeals to both adults and children alike. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or busy weeknights.
Incorporating fresh vegetables into your meals is essential for a balanced diet. This recipe includes bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, providing essential vitamins and minerals. Not only do these veggies enhance the flavor profile of the dish, but they also contribute to its nutritional value, making this dinner a heart-healthy option for your family.
Perfect for Busy Nights
Life can get hectic, especially during the week when schedules are packed. This Ground Beef Family Dinner is designed with time constraints in mind. With a total preparation and cooking time of just under 30 minutes, it allows you to serve a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply follow the steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time.
The one-skillet method not only saves time on cooking but also makes cleanup a breeze. With fewer dishes to wash, you can enjoy more time with your family after dinner. This recipe is as practical as it is tasty, ensuring that you can provide your loved ones with a nourishing meal without the stress.
Customization Options
One of the best features of this Ground Beef Family Dinner is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your family’s preferences or dietary restrictions. If you have leftover vegetables, toss them in! You can also switch out the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option, making this dish suitable for various diets.
If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a meal that suits your family’s taste while keeping it nutritious.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat.
Sauté Vegetables
Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in diced tomatoes, corn, cooked rice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Simmer
Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Serve
Top with shredded cheese if desired and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious family dinner!
Nutritional Benefits
This Ground Beef Family Dinner not only satisfies the palate but also provides a well-rounded nutritional profile. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, which are crucial for energy and overall health. Pairing it with a variety of vegetables enhances the meal's fiber content, aiding in digestion and keeping you fuller for longer.
Incorporating whole grains, such as brown rice, adds additional nutrients, including magnesium and selenium. The combination of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates in this dish makes it a balanced option that fuels your family's activities without the sluggishness that often accompanies heavy meals.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you'll be pleased to know that this Ground Beef Family Dinner stores well. Simply allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, ensure that the meal is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
For the best texture when reheating, consider warming it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If using a microwave, cover the dish to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. This makes it an ideal meal prep option for those looking to save time throughout the week.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Ground Beef Family Dinner, consider serving it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish. Additionally, you can offer toppings such as sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro to enhance the flavor even further.
For a fun twist, serve the beef mixture in taco shells or lettuce wraps, allowing everyone to create their own personalized meal. This interactive approach makes dinner more engaging, especially for kids, and encourages them to enjoy the meal while being involved in the process.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or crusty bread.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat when ready to serve.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ground Beef Family Dinner
A hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, featuring ground beef and fresh vegetables.
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
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat.
Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
Stir in diced tomatoes, corn, cooked rice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Top with shredded cheese if desired and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g