Ground Beef One Pot Dinner
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy a hearty and comforting meal with this easy ground beef one pot dinner, perfect for busy weeknights.
This ground beef one pot dinner is a quick and delicious meal that brings the family together around the table. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it's a go-to recipe for any night of the week.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and simple to prepare with just one pot
- Packed with protein and vegetables for a balanced meal
- Perfect for leftovers, reheating well for lunch the next day
A Hearty Meal in One Pot
This Ground Beef One Pot Dinner is designed for those who appreciate simplicity without sacrificing flavor. With just one pot needed, this recipe minimizes cleanup time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. It combines hearty ground beef with vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices, creating a dish that is not only filling but also packed with nutrients.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily substitute the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your family's preferences. Whether you opt for fresh produce or frozen options, the result will still be a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're someone who enjoys meal prepping, this one pot dinner is a fantastic choice. It stores well in the refrigerator and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for lunch the next day. Simply portion it out into containers and you’ll have a nutritious meal ready to go, saving you time and effort throughout the week.
Additionally, this recipe can be easily doubled if you're cooking for a larger group or want to have some extra for the freezer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, and you'll have a delightful meal on hand whenever you need it.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of this Ground Beef One Pot Dinner is its adaptability. You can add your favorite spices or herbs to elevate the flavor even further. For a bit of heat, consider including some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. If you prefer a creamier texture, a splash of cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving could elevate the dish to new heights.
Don't forget about the grains! While this recipe calls for cooked rice, you could easily swap it out for quinoa, couscous, or even pasta, depending on your dietary needs and preferences. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that you can enjoy this meal time and again without it feeling repetitive.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Brown the Beef
In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, mixed vegetables, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Simmer
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve
Remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious one pot meal!
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Ground Beef One Pot Dinner turns out perfectly, be sure to brown the beef thoroughly. This not only enhances the flavor of the meat but also helps to develop a rich base for your dish. Don't rush the sautéing process for the vegetables either; allowing them to soften properly will add depth to the overall taste.
Another tip is to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. Everyone's palate is different, so feel free to add more Italian seasoning, salt, or pepper based on your preference. This small adjustment can make a big difference in the final outcome.
Storage and Reheating
Once your one pot dinner has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container for storage. This dish can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a great option for meal planning. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. This way, you’ll have a quick and easy meal ready whenever you need it. Just be sure to label your containers with the date, so you can keep track of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this Ground Beef One Pot Dinner with a side salad or some crusty bread. A fresh salad can add a nice crunch and balance out the meal, while bread is perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce that may be left on your plate.
For a fun twist, you can also top the dish with freshly grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream before serving. This additional layer of flavor and creaminess will make each bite even more satisfying, transforming this simple meal into something truly special.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and will work well in this recipe.
→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative and use vegetable broth.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This one pot dinner is complete on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or garlic bread.
Ground Beef One Pot Dinner
Enjoy a hearty and comforting meal with this easy ground beef one pot dinner, perfect for busy weeknights.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, mixed vegetables, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious one pot meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g