Name: Ground Beef Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 can tomato sauce (8 oz); 1 cup beef broth; 2 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

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Juicy, tender ground beef simmered with herbs, tangy tomatoes, and savory broth is what comfort food dreams are made of! This quick and hearty recipe brings together classic pantry staples and simple seasonings for a weeknight dinner that tastes like you put in hours, but comes together in just 30 minutes. With its deep flavors and comforting aroma, this ground beef dish is destined to become your new go-to for low-effort, maximum-reward meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Great dishes start with great ingredients, and this recipe keeps it simple without sacrificing flavor. Every item shines—adding aroma, richness, and just the right texture to your skillet of ground beef goodness!

Ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef for less fat, but still plenty of rich flavor and satisfying protein in every bite.
Onion: A diced onion becomes sweet and mellow as it cooks, laying a delicious foundation for the whole dish.
Garlic: Just a couple cloves of minced garlic bring irresistible, savory depth to the beef.
Diced tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add tartness and body to the sauce, making every bite juicy.
Tomato sauce: This brings creaminess and helps bind the ground beef and veggies together.
Beef broth: A splash of broth enhances the beefy flavor and keeps everything moist as it simmers.
Dried oregano: A classic herb that brings a touch of the Mediterranean and a fragrant punch to the sauce.
Dried basil: Sweet and herbal, basil rounds out the tomato flavors and adds a hint of brightness.
Salt and pepper: Season your ground beef to taste—add in small amounts, and taste as you go!
Olive oil: A bit of olive oil helps everything sauté evenly and brings a silky finish to the beef.

How to Make

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Start by heating a splash of olive oil in your largest skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring as the kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas. After just a couple of minutes, the onion will begin to soften and the garlic becomes fragrant, building the flavorful base for your ground beef mixture.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Once your onions and garlic are ready, crumble the ground beef right into the skillet. Use a spatula to break the beef into smaller bits so you get even browning and no big clumps. Stir occasionally for 5–7 minutes, until the meat is fully browned and cooked through—those little crispy bits add so much flavor!

Step 3: Drain and Add Tomatoes & Broth

If there’s excess fat in the pan, carefully spoon or drain it off (especially if your ground beef wasn’t super lean). Next, pour in your diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. These ingredients will instantly lift all the meaty bits from the bottom of the skillet, turning everything into a beautiful, beefy sauce.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, and a hefty pinch each of salt and black pepper. Stir well to combine, then turn down the heat and let your ground beef simmer gently for 10–15 minutes. This is where all those flavors meld together and the sauce thickens into something magical. Taste, adjust the seasoning, and get ready to serve!

How to Serve

Garnishes

Sprinkle your ground beef with fresh chopped parsley or basil right before serving to add a burst of color and freshness. Shredded Parmesan melts beautifully over the top, and a twist of freshly ground pepper never hurts!

Side Dishes

This ground beef dish pairs perfectly with fluffy rice, al dente pasta, or even creamy mashed potatoes. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a crisp green salad or a hunk of crusty bread makes for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning your ground beef mixture into halved bell peppers and baking until tender, or pile it on top of toasted sourdough for a hearty open-faced sandwich. You can even scoop it over baked potatoes or use it as a filling for wraps or tacos—so many delicious possibilities!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover ground beef in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. The flavors get even better with time, making it the perfect candidate for easy meal prep throughout the week.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully—just cool the ground beef completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, and don’t forget to label it for quick weeknight dinners.

Reheating

When you’re ready to reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm the beef in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir occasionally until piping hot, and you’re ready to enjoy!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a lighter alternative and works just as well with the same spices and sauce. Just be sure to season it generously to boost that savory flavor.

What vegetables can I add to this ground beef recipe?

Chopped bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini are fantastic additions. Simply add them in with the onion and garlic to get a jump start on softening and building layers of flavor.

Is this ground beef recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, this skillet is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check labels on broth and tomato products if you’re sensitive, and pair with gluten-free sides.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Letting the ground beef mixture simmer longer will reduce and thicken the sauce. If you’re in a hurry, stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water until you reach your desired texture.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Just use a larger skillet or cook in batches, and adjust the simmering time slightly if needed. It’s perfect for feeding hungry family and friends—or freezing for later.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that’s warming, quick, and a guaranteed dinner win, this ground beef recipe checks all the boxes. I can’t wait for you to give it a try—the possibilities are endless, and the flavors are seriously irresistible!