Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that’s a staple in kitchens worldwide. It’s affordable, easy to cook, and lends itself to a wide array of flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this article will guide you through some mouthwatering ground beef recipes that are sure to impress.
1. Classic Cheeseburgers
Let’s start with a timeless favorite: the cheeseburger.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the burgers by placing a beef patty on each bun bottom, topping with cheese, and then adding your favorite toppings.
2. Hearty Chili
Chili is a perfect comfort food, especially on a cold day.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chili powder, cumin, and oregano.
4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 30 minutes, or until flavors have blended.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
3. Easy Meatloaf
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined.
2. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan.
3. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
4. Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
4. Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cold winter night.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and parsley.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Spread the ground beef mixture evenly in a baking dish.
7. Top with the mashed potatoes.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
5. Taco Meat
Taco meat is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, such as tacos, burritos, and nachos.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chili powder, cumin, and oregano.
4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 30 minutes, or until flavors have blended.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Spaghetti and Meatballs
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic Italian-American dish that’s loved by people of all ages.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs and set aside.
3. In a large pot, brown the meatballs over medium heat.
4. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar, oregano, and red pepper flakes to the pot.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
7. Add the meatballs back to the pot and cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
8. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions.
9. Drain the spaghetti and serve with the meatball sauce and grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are a quick and easy weeknight meal that’s perfect for the whole family.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and green chilies, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have blended.
5. Serve on hamburger buns.
8. Lentil Soup with Ground Beef