Ground beef with vegetables is the kind of dish that warms your soul and satisfies your cravings. Picture a fragrant medley of seasoned beef mingling with colorful vegetables, creating a plate that’s as vibrant as a summer garden. The sizzle of the meat hitting the pan is music to your ears, while the earthy aroma fills your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy haven.
I remember the first time I made ground beef with vegetables for my family. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted to create something hearty yet quick. As soon as they took their first bites, their eyes lit up, and I knew I had struck culinary gold. This dish isn’t just food; it’s comfort on a plate and perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ground beef with vegetables is incredibly easy to prepare and allows for endless customization based on what you have on hand
- The delightful blend of flavors and colors will make any dinner table inviting
- It’s a versatile recipe that can be served over rice, pasta, or even in tacos
- Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!
Sharing this dish always brings smiles from my loved ones and reminds me of those simple yet joyful moments around the dinner table.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor; about 1 pound works well.
- Bell Peppers: Use any color you prefer; they add sweetness and crunch to the dish.
- Onion: A medium onion adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic delivers aromatic goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Zucchini: This tender vegetable absorbs flavors beautifully; use one medium zucchini, chopped.
- Tomato Sauce: A cup of tomato sauce adds moisture and richness, making every bite irresistible.
- Seasoning Blend: Use salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs for an all-around flavor boost.
- Olive Oil: A splash is perfect for sautéing your vegetables to golden perfection.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion finely, slice the bell peppers into strips, and chop the zucchini into half-moons. This prep step ensures everything cooks evenly.
Sauté Vegetables First: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm two tablespoons of olive oil until shimmering. Add onions and cook until translucent—about 3-4 minutes—then toss in bell peppers and zucchini for an additional 5 minutes until they soften.
Add Ground Beef: Crumble in 1 pound of ground beef into the skillet with the veggies. Stir frequently until browned completely—about 6-8 minutes—while breaking it apart with a spatula.
Season It Right: Sprinkle in your seasoning blend—salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs—and stir well to coat every morsel. The aromatic spices will elevate this dish from ordinary to extraordinary!
Pour in Tomato Sauce: Once the beef is browned and seasoned perfectly, pour in 1 cup of tomato sauce. Stir well to combine everything while allowing it to simmer for about 10 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.
Serve Hot!: Once cooked through and bubbling gently, remove from heat. Serve warm over rice or pasta—or get adventurous by using it as taco filling! Enjoy that fantastic homemade taste!
Ground beef with vegetables is not just another recipe; it’s an experience filled with rich aromas and delightful textures that brings people together. As you cook this dish, let it fill your home with warmth and laughter—the best seasoning of all!
You Must Know
- Ground beef with vegetables is a versatile dish, perfect for using leftovers
- The vibrant colors and savory aromas will make your kitchen smell heavenly
- You can also adjust the seasoning based on your taste preferences, making it truly your own
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef first, then add vegetables to sauté until tender. This order enhances flavor and ensures everything cooks evenly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in seasonal veggies, like zucchini or bell peppers, and experiment with spices to create your signature flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, season your ground beef early in the cooking process
- Adding garlic and onion enhances depth
- Also, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking
- Lastly, use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor just before serving
Sharing this dish often brings back fond memories of family gatherings and laughter around the table—it always feels like home when I make it.
FAQ
What can I substitute for ground beef in this recipe?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options for a healthier alternative.
How do I know when my ground beef is fully cooked?
Ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
Can I freeze leftovers of ground beef with vegetables?
Yes, store leftovers in freezer-safe containers for up to three months without losing quality.
Ground Beef with Vegetables
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground beef with vegetables is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines hearty flavors and vibrant colors. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, bringing warmth to your table with minimal effort. The savory blend of seasoned ground beef and fresh vegetables creates a delightful meal that can be served over rice, pasta, or used as a taco filling. Enjoy the deliciousness that comes from simple ingredients!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, pepper, paprika, Italian herbs (to taste)
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by washing and chopping the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil until shimmering. Sauté onions until translucent (3-4 minutes), then add bell peppers and zucchini; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Crumble ground beef into the skillet with the veggies; stir frequently until browned (6-8 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and seasonings; stir well to coat.
- Pour in tomato sauce and simmer for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve hot over rice or pasta, or use as taco filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
