In the quiet comfort of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where the air is crisp and the evenings stretch long, a ground beef dinner was often the highlight of our family gatherings. Mama Lu, my grandmother, would always have something simmering on the stove, a pot of comfort that promised a full belly and a warm heart. As I’ve carried these memories with me to Portland, the essence of those dinners has evolved, blending the flavors of my childhood with new inspirations from the Pacific Northwest. It’s in this spirit of nostalgia and innovation that I welcome you to explore a ground beef dinner that pays homage to tradition while embracing a modern twist.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Dinner

There’s something inherently comforting about a ground beef dinner; it’s like a warm hug on a plate. This dish is steeped in the simplicity that Mama Lu adored, using ingredients that speak to the soul without overwhelming the senses. Each bite tells a story — of the laughter shared around a rustic wooden table, the soft hum of crickets outside the kitchen window, and the rich aroma of home-cooked goodness. But it’s not just about nostalgia; this dish is versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend feast. It brings together the old and new, offering a taste that’s both familiar and exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Ground Beef Dinner

Ingredients for Savory Ground Beef Dinner Ideas to Spice Up Your Weeknight Meals

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

For a twist, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of red wine added to the beef broth can deepen the flavors beautifully, just as Mama Lu might have done with a little moonshine on special occasions.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 350 per serving
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 650mg

Savory Ground Beef Dinner Ideas to Spice Up Your Weeknight Meals

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Learn how to make delicious ground beef dinner. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

Author: Jenny
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: International

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

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Instructions

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. This should take another 5-7 minutes.
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet, then return it to the heat. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This slow simmering is where the magic happens, just like the long, lazy afternoons of storytelling on the porch.
Add the frozen peas to the skillet, stirring to combine, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the peas are heated through.
Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top of the beef mixture, cover the skillet, and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.

As you stir the pot, remember how Mama Lu would always say, “Cooking is just like telling a story — it’s the love you weave in that makes it unforgettable.”

Steps to Create Your Ground Beef Dinner

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. This should take another 5-7 minutes.
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet, then return it to the heat. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This slow simmering is where the magic happens, just like the long, lazy afternoons of storytelling on the porch.
Add the frozen peas to the skillet, stirring to combine, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the peas are heated through.
Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top of the beef mixture, cover the skillet, and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.

As you stir the pot, remember how Mama Lu would always say, “Cooking is just like telling a story — it’s the love you weave in that makes it unforgettable.” Learn more: Mediterranean Chicken Pizza

Tips for Making the Best Ground Beef Dinner

For a meal that sings of home, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. If you have access to grass-fed beef, it can make a world of difference in flavor and texture. Remember to taste as you go, adjusting the seasonings to suit your palate. And don’t rush the simmering process; it’s the patience and care you invest that will truly elevate the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This ground beef dinner pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that savory sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the beef nicely. And for a true touch of Southern hospitality, serve it alongside a slice of Mama Lu’s skillet cornbread — a family tradition that never fails to bring smiles around the table.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of this dish are a blessing, as the flavors only deepen overnight. Store any remaining ground beef dinner in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for ground beef dinner?

The main ingredients for ground beef dinner include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make ground beef dinner?

The total time to make ground beef dinner includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make ground beef dinner ahead of time?

Yes, ground beef dinner can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with ground beef dinner?

ground beef dinner pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is ground beef dinner suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, ground beef dinner may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

Creating this ground beef dinner is more than just putting a meal on the table; it’s about connecting with a legacy of love and flavor that stretches back through generations. As you savor each bite, I hope you feel a bit of the warmth and joy that filled that old white farmhouse in the Blue Ridge Mountains — a place where every meal was a story waiting to be told. Here’s to sharing that story with you, one delicious plate at a time.