Ground Beef Family Dinner
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy a hearty and satisfying ground beef family dinner that brings everyone together around the table.
This ground beef family dinner is not just a meal; it's a tradition that brings families together. The comforting flavors and simple preparation make it a favorite for busy weeknights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
- Rich and savory flavors that everyone will enjoy
- Versatile dish that can be customized to your taste
A Family Favorite
Ground beef is a staple in many households, and for good reason. It’s not only versatile but also quick to cook, making it the perfect protein for busy families. This Ground Beef Family Dinner is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its rich flavors and hearty texture. Whether you serve it over rice or pasta, the combination of ingredients creates a satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Another great aspect of this dish is its adaptability. You can easily swap out ingredients based on your family's preferences or what you have in your pantry. Want to add some extra nutrition? Toss in some spinach or bell peppers. Not a fan of certain veggies? Leave them out or replace them with your favorites. This recipe is forgiving and encourages creativity, allowing you to make it your own.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking to save time during the week, this Ground Beef Family Dinner is an excellent option for meal prep. You can double the recipe and portion it out for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, and you’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready in minutes. This not only saves time but also ensures that you have a nutritious meal on hand when you're short on time.
Additionally, the flavors of this dish only improve upon reheating, making it an excellent candidate for leftovers. The savory blend of ground beef, tomatoes, and vegetables meld together beautifully, resulting in a meal that tastes just as good the next day. By preparing this dish in advance, you can enjoy quality family time without the stress of cooking every night.
Cooking Tips and Variations
For those who prefer a little kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the skillet while cooking the beef. This will give your Ground Beef Family Dinner an extra layer of flavor and spice. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different seasonings like taco seasoning or curry powder to change up the flavor profile entirely.
Another variation to consider is substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. These leaner options can still provide a hearty meal while cutting down on fat content. Additionally, if you’re aiming for a gluten-free option, serve the dish over quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta or rice. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this dish to meet your family’s dietary needs.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Family Dinner Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or pasta for serving
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Vegetables and Seasoning
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, mixed vegetables, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Simmer and Serve
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve over cooked rice or pasta.
Enjoy your delicious ground beef family dinner!
Nutritional Benefits
Ground beef is not only delicious but also a rich source of essential nutrients. It provides high-quality protein, which is vital for muscle growth and repair. Additionally, it contains important vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins, all of which play crucial roles in maintaining overall health.
Incorporating vegetables into this dish further enhances its nutritional profile. The mixed vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this meal well-rounded. By using fresh or frozen options, you can maximize the health benefits while keeping the prep time to a minimum.
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef Family Dinner is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. While it's delightful over rice or pasta, you can also try it as a filling for tacos or burritos. Just scoop the mixture into tortillas, add your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or guacamole, and you have a fantastic Mexican-inspired meal.
For a complete dining experience, consider pairing this dish with a simple side salad. A refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the beef and provide a nutritious accompaniment. Alternatively, some garlic bread or crusty rolls would be perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Ground Beef Family Dinner, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This makes it easy to enjoy a hearty meal without the effort of cooking from scratch.
For longer storage, consider freezing the leftovers. Portion them into freezer-safe containers and they can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired. This way, you can always have a delicious, homemade meal ready at a moment's notice.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative.
→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or a side salad.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ground Beef Family Dinner
Enjoy a hearty and satisfying ground beef family dinner that brings everyone together around the table.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef Family Dinner Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or pasta for serving
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, mixed vegetables, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve over cooked rice or pasta.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g