Lean Ground Beef is a versatile staple in many kitchens, packed with flavor and ideal for creating satisfying meals that please the whole family. Its adaptability makes it a go-to ingredient for everything from hearty tacos to savory casseroles. If you’re looking for a simple, yet delicious way to enjoy lean ground beef, this recipe is just what you need!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 290
- Protein: 28 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5 grams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Sodium: 450 mg
Why Make This Lean Ground Beef
This lean ground beef recipe is not only quick and easy but also nutritious and satisfying. The savory combination of onion, garlic, and spices elevates the beef’s flavor without overwhelming it. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—serve it over rice, pile it into tacos, or toss it in a salad. With its simple preparation method and wholesome ingredients, you’ll love making this a regular part of your meal rotation.
How to Make Lean Ground Beef
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- Salt
- Pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup beef broth
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Sautéing Onion
Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Cooking Beef and Garlic
Add minced garlic and lean ground beef, breaking up the meat with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Simmering
Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Step 5: Serving
Serve the cooked lean ground beef as desired—over rice, in a burrito, or even as a savory topping for baked potatoes.
How to Serve Lean Ground Beef
Lean ground beef is excellent served in various ways. Use it as a filling for tacos or burritos, spoon it over creamy mashed potatoes, or mix it into pasta for a hearty dish. It’s also perfect for making a robust chili or layered in a shepherd’s pie. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
How to Store Lean Ground Beef
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked beef for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.
Expert Tips for Perfect Lean Ground Beef
- For added flavor, consider using a mix of spices like cumin or onion powder.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning of the beef.
- If your dish feels dry, a splash of water or extra beef broth can add moisture without changing the flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Cheesy Beef Casserole: Mix cooked lean ground beef with cooked macaroni, cheese, and your choice of vegetables. Bake until bubbly.
- Stuffed Peppers: Combine lean ground beef with rice and spices, stuff into halved bell peppers, and bake until the peppers are tender.
- Beef Lettuce Wraps: Use the cooked beef as a filling for crispy lettuce leaves, topped with your favorite sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and will yield a lighter dish. - What can I serve with lean ground beef?
It goes well with rice, pasta, tortillas, or even in a salad. - How can I spice it up?
Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to increase the heat level. - Is it okay to freeze cooked lean ground beef?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s cooled down before storing and use it within 2-3 months. - What’s the best way to thaw frozen beef?
Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker results.
Conclusion
Making lean ground beef is easy, tasty, and incredibly versatile. Whether you use it as a base for tacos, a hearty chili, or a filling for stuffed peppers, this recipe provides a simple way to create delicious meals in no time. The combination of spices and aromatics brings the flavors to life, making every bite a delight. Give this recipe a try and discover how lean ground beef can transform your weeknight dinners into delightful feasts!
Print
Lean Ground Beef
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A quick and easy recipe for savory lean ground beef, perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a topping for rice and potatoes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- Salt
- Pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and lean ground beef, breaking up the meat with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the beef is fully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Serve as desired—over rice, in a burrito, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Notes
For added flavor, consider using a mix of spices like cumin or onion powder. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
