12 Classic American Ground Beef Recipes

Ground beef is truly a kitchen superstar!

It’s the key ingredient in so many beloved American classics that warm our hearts and fill our bellies.

From mouthwatering beef burgers to the comforting embrace of chili con carne, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Let’s not forget the quick and satisfying beef tacos or the rich flavors of shepherd’s pie and spaghetti bolognese.

These dishes are perfect for making your own with a sprinkle of creativity and a personal touch!

The Beloved Beef Burger

Few foods are as universally loved as the classic beef burger. Juicy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable, it’s a staple in many households and restaurants alike. Whether served at a backyard barbecue or a gourmet bistro, a good beef burger can satisfy both the simplest and most sophisticated of palates.

The following recipe will guide you in creating a beloved beef burger that’s simple yet satisfying, and sure to be a hit with family and friends.

The key to a great burger lies in the quality of the beef. Use ground beef with a fat content of about 20% for a juicy, flavorful burger. Avoid overworking the meat as it can become tough and chewy. Gently form the patties, then season generously with salt and pepper just before cooking. This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
• Salt, to taste
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 4-6 hamburger buns
• 4-6 slices of American cheese
• Lettuce
• Tomato slices
• Onion slices
• Pickles
• Mayonnaise
• Ketchup
• Mustard

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat a grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Divide the ground beef into 4 to 6 equal portions and gently form each into a patty, about 1 inch thick. Make sure not to overwork the meat to prevent it from becoming tough.
3. Season each patty generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
4. Place the patties on the grill or skillet, and cook for about 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.
5. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and let it melt.
6. While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
7. Assemble the burgers by spreading mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard on the toasted buns, then adding the cooked patties, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.

Extra Tips:

For an extra flavorful burger, consider adding some caramelized onions or a slice of crispy bacon. Remember to let the patties rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.

Always toast your buns to prevent them from getting soggy from the burger juices and condiments. Feel free to get creative with your toppings and condiments – that’s part of the fun of making burgers at home.

Hearty Hamburger Casserole

Enjoy the rich, savory flavor of a classic hamburger in the form of a warm, comforting casserole. This Hearty Hamburger Casserole brings together ground beef, pasta, fresh vegetables, and a blend of spices to create a one-dish meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. It’s easy to prepare, and the combination of ingredients creates a dish that’s filling and satisfying, while still being healthy and nutritious.

The Hearty Hamburger Casserole is also a versatile recipe. You can easily substitute or add ingredients based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Want to make it a little spicy? Add some crushed red pepper flakes. Want it more cheesy? Add more of your favorite cheese. The possibilities are endless, and this is a definite way to please everyone in your family.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cups uncooked macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). While the oven is heating, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Make sure to crumble the beef as it cooks.
4. Once the beef is cooked, add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
6. While the beef mixture is simmering, cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and add it to the beef mixture. Stir to combine.
7. Pour the combined beef and pasta mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

When preparing this Hearty Hamburger Casserole, make certain to thoroughly cook the ground beef to guarantee food safety. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with this recipe. Try adding different veggies, like corn or peas, or even different types of cheese. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. So feel free to make it your own and enjoy the process of creating a delicious meal for your loved ones.

Comforting Chili Con Carne

Comforting Chili Con Carne is a classic ground beef dish hailing from Texas and Mexico. This hearty and flavorful dish is the epitome of comfort food, making it an excellent choice for family dinners, weekend get-togethers, or even a cozy night in.

Chili Con Carne, which translates to “chili with meat,” is a spicy stew containing chili pepper, meat (traditionally beef), and often tomatoes and beans.

This Comforting Chili Con Carne recipe is a fusion of both traditional and modern elements. It incorporates ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices to give it that signature heat and flavor. It’s a simple dish that requires minimal effort, yet yields a rich and robust flavor.

This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 2 cans (15 oz each) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups beef broth
• Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped fresh cilantro for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onions, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for a minute until the spices are fragrant.
4. Add the undrained diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Lower the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the stew to thicken.
6. Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Serve the chili hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.

Cooking Comforting Chili Con Carne is quite straightforward, but here’s an extra tip: Don’t rush the simmering process.

This step is essential to achieving the depth of flavor that makes this dish so special. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will develop. So, take your time and let the magic happen. Enjoy your homemade Comforting Chili Con Carne!

Classic Beef Tacos

Classic Beef Tacos offer a simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings. This recipe, rooted in Mexican cuisine, has been popularly adapted worldwide due to its hearty taste and easy preparation.

These tacos, filled with seasoned ground beef, aren’t only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can add your favorite toppings like cheese, lettuce, tomato, and salsa for a personalized taste.

This recipe is designed to serve 4 to 6 people. For larger gatherings, simply increase the ingredient proportions accordingly. The ground beef is the star of the show here, so opt for high-quality meat for the best results.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 12 taco shells
• Olive oil
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become soft and fragrant, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked through. This should take around 7-10 minutes. Drain off excess fat.
3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef. Stir well to combine, ensuring the beef is evenly coated with the seasoning. Add salt to taste. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. While the beef is simmering, you can prepare the taco shells. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and place the shells on a baking sheet. Heat them in the oven for 5-7 minutes until they’re crisp.
5. Now it’s time to assemble your tacos. Fill each shell with the seasoned beef mixture. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Finish with a spoonful of salsa.

When cooking Classic Beef Tacos, don’t be afraid to experiment with additional toppings. Avocado slices, sour cream, cilantro, and lime wedges can add more depth to the flavor profile.

Additionally, while the recipe calls for a taco seasoning packet, you can also make your own blend with spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika for a more homemade touch. Remember, the key to a great taco lies in the balance of flavors.

Traditional Sloppy Joes

Traditional Sloppy Joes have long been a classic American dinner. This hearty sandwich isn’t only delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Ground beef is the foundation of the dish, cooked with onions, bell peppers, and a tangy-sweet tomato sauce, then spooned onto hamburger buns. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy weekend lunches.

This recipe for Traditional Sloppy Joes is a perfect example of comfort food. The dish is rich, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, these sloppy joes are guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of ketchup
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon of mustard
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 to 6 hamburger buns
• Butter for spreading

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon and letting it brown. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Once the beef is browned, add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until well mixed.
4. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the beef and vegetables. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
6. While the beef mixture is simmering, spread butter on the hamburger buns and lightly toast them.
7. After 20 minutes, spoon the beef mixture onto the toasted buns and serve.

Extra Tips:

When cooking the ground beef, be sure to drain off any excess fat before adding the vegetables. This will prevent the finished dish from being too greasy.

Feel free to customize your sloppy joes by adding in extra ingredients like diced tomatoes or jalapenos for a bit of heat. Another way to add flavor is by topping the finished sandwich with shredded cheese or coleslaw.

Also, this recipe can be easily doubled or halved depending on the number of people you’re serving.

Tasty Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a classic Russian recipe that has been a staple in many households for generations. It features tender slices of beef cooked in a rich and creamy sauce, served over a bed of egg noodles. The dish is comforting, hearty, and full of flavor, making it a go-to dinner option for many families.

Furthermore, it’s a versatile dish that can be easily modified to suit your individual taste preferences.

The secret to a delicious Beef Stroganoff lies in the quality of the beef and the right combination of ingredients. Using high-quality, lean beef guarantees that the meat remains tender and juicy after cooking. The creamy sauce is made from a blend of sour cream, onions, and mushrooms, and it perfectly complements the tender beef slices.

Here’s how to make this delectable dish for a serving size of 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs of lean beef steak, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups of sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup of beef broth
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 package of egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until they’re browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté these until the onions become translucent and the mushrooms are slightly browned.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to combine. This will help thicken the sauce later on.
4. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the sauce thickens.
5. Return the cooked beef strips to the skillet and stir well to coat them with the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the beef to absorb the flavors.
6. Stir in the sour cream and season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Let the mixture cook for another 5 minutes.
7. While the stroganoff is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions.
8. To serve, place a portion of egg noodles on a plate, top with the beef stroganoff, and garnish with fresh parsley.

When cooking Beef Stroganoff, it’s crucial to take your time while browning the beef. This step helps to lock in the flavors and guarantees that the meat remains tender.

It’s also important to remember that the sauce will thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit thin while cooking. Finally, don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving. Enjoy your hearty and delicious Beef Stroganoff!

Beef and Biscuits Casserole

Indulge yourself in the comfort of a home-cooked meal with the Beef and Biscuits Casserole. This recipe combines the savory, robust flavor of ground beef with the buttery softness of biscuits. The addition of veggies and a creamy sauce brings a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a hit among both adults and kids.

The Beef and Biscuits Casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a Sunday brunch. It takes about an hour to prepare and cook, which gives you enough time to relax and enjoy the cooking process. Even better, it’s a one-dish meal, which means less clean-up and more time to savor the food with your loved ones.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds of ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup of frozen corn
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (16.3 oz) of refrigerated biscuits
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions become translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in the chopped bell peppers and frozen corn. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. Add the cream of mushroom soup to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for a couple of minutes until heated through.
6. Transfer this mixture to a greased 13×9 inch baking dish.
7. Top the beef mixture with the biscuits. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the biscuits.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for around 20-25 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Extra Tips:

To guarantee the biscuits bake evenly, position them on top of the beef mixture so they’re not touching each other. If you prefer a spicier kick to your casserole, feel free to add some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the ground beef.

You can even substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different flavor profile. Finally, always remember to let the casserole sit for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the heat to distribute evenly.

Enjoy your hearty Beef and Biscuits Casserole!

Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

There are few dishes as comforting and universally loved as a good old-fashioned meatloaf. This recipe for a classic ground beef meatloaf is a hearty, satisfying main course that has the power to transport you right back to your grandma’s kitchen. Chock full of savory flavors, this meatloaf is moist and tender, with a tangy glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness. It’s perfect for a family dinner, or as leftovers the next day in a delicious meatloaf sandwich.

The secret to a great meatloaf is in the quality of the beef you use, and the balance of ingredients that add flavor and moisture. This recipe uses a mix of ground beef and pork for the perfect texture. The addition of breadcrumbs and milk keep the meatloaf moist, while the onions, garlic, and seasonings infuse it with rich, savory flavors. The ketchup-based glaze is the perfect finishing touch, adding a touch of sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 0.5 lb ground pork
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp mustard

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. In a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to make the glaze. Stir until well blended.
5. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Extra Tips:

For the perfect meatloaf, don’t over mix the meat mixture, as this can result in a dense and tough loaf. It’s also best to use your hands to mix and shape the meatloaf for a lighter texture.

Finally, remember to let the meatloaf rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf. Enjoy this classic comfort food with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.

Savory Shepherd’s Pie

Savory Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty, filling dish that’s perfect for dinner with the family. Originating from the British Isles, this classic dish features ground beef enveloped in a rich, flavorful gravy, topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes and then baked until beautifully golden.

This comforting dish is ideal for those cold winter nights when you crave something substantial and warming.

This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for a family meal or a small gathering. The Shepherd’s Pie is prepared in two parts: the meat filling and the mashed potato topping. Don’t be intimidated by the number of steps involved – each one is simple and contributes to crafting a dish with layers of incredible flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs of ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 cup of frozen peas
• 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1 cup of beef broth
• 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1.5 lbs of russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

Cooking Instructions:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once browned, remove the beef with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the onions, garlic, and carrots until the onions are translucent and the carrots are tender.
4. Return the browned beef to the skillet, add the frozen peas, and stir in the flour and tomato paste until well combined.
5. Gradually add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring continuously. Cook until the mixture thickens into a gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simultaneously, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender. Drain and return to the pot.
7. Add the milk and butter to the potatoes and mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer the meat mixture into a baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading evenly and ensuring the meat is fully covered.
9. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the potatoes.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling. Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Extra Cooking Tips:

When preparing the Shepherd’s Pie, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Choose russet potatoes for the topping as they’re starchy and will mash up light and fluffy.

You can also add a touch of cream for extra richness. When browning the meat, make sure not to overcrowd the pan to achieve a nice, deep brown color.

Finally, let the pie rest for a bit after baking. This allows the flavors to meld together and the gravy to thicken up, making it easier to serve.

American-Style Beef Goulash

American-Style Beef Goulash is a hearty, comforting dish that combines ground beef, macaroni pasta, and a savory tomato sauce. This one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners, especially on chilly nights when you crave for something warm and filling. The ingredients are simple and straightforward, but when combined, they create a rich and flavorful dish that will surely satisfy your taste buds.

The best part about this recipe is its versatility. You can add your favorite vegetables, use different types of pasta, or adjust the spices according to your preference. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to cook a delicious American-Style Beef Goulash that serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Make sure to break it up into small crumbles. Once thoroughly cooked, remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté them until they become soft and fragrant.
3. Return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika. Stir everything until well combined.
4. Pour the beef broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the pasta is cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Season the goulash with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the sauce.
6. Garnish the American-Style Beef Goulash with chopped parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

This recipe is quite forgiving, so feel free to experiment with your preferred ingredients. You may add vegetables like carrots and peas for extra nutrition.

If you want to make it spicier, add some chili powder or cayenne pepper. Also, remember to stir the goulash occasionally while it simmers to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Enjoy your homemade American-Style Beef Goulash!

Delicious Spaghetti Bolognese

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that’s both hearty and delicious. It’s a staple in many households, and for a good reason. This dish is made with ground beef, tomatoes, and a mix of aromatic herbs and spices that all come together to create a rich and flavorful sauce. The sauce is then served over a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti, creating a satisfying meal that’s sure to please any palate.

Preparing Spaghetti Bolognese at home may sound intimidating, but the process is relatively straightforward. The key is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and to allow the sauce to simmer for a significant amount of time. This helps to develop the flavors and results in a robust and delicious Bolognese sauce. This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup red wine
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb spaghetti
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Make sure to break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Remove the beef from the saucepan with a slotted spoon and set it aside. In the same saucepan, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 10 minutes.
3. Return the beef to the saucepan. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least an hour. This helps the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and robust sauce.
5. While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Once it’s cooked, drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.
6. Serve the Bolognese sauce over the cooked spaghetti. Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Extra Tips:

Be sure to taste your sauce as it simmers and adjust the seasonings as necessary. Sometimes, it may need a bit more salt or a pinch of sugar if it’s too acidic.

Also, remember that the longer the sauce simmers, the better it will taste. So, if you have the time, let it simmer for a couple of hours. You won’t regret it.

Finally, the leftovers taste even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make a double batch. Enjoy your delicious homemade Spaghetti Bolognese!

Iconic Beef Lasagna

The Iconic Beef Lasagna is a staple of Italian cuisine loved by people all over the world. This hearty dish layers pasta sheets, ground beef, and a rich blend of cheeses to create a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just looking for a comforting dinner at home, this lasagna recipe is sure to be a hit.

The secret to a perfect lasagna lies in the quality of its ingredients. Choosing a good quality ground beef and fresh cheese will greatly improve the taste of your lasagna. This recipe uses a simple homemade tomato sauce that brings out the flavor of the beef and melds perfectly with the cheese. Though it requires some time to prepare, the end result is well worth the effort.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink. Make sure to break up the beef into small pieces for an even consistency.
4. Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet and mix it with the cooked beef. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix it until it’s well combined.
6. Spread a thin layer of the beef and marinara sauce mixture in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Arrange a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture, then sprinkle some mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
8. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
10. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
11. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

A few extra tips when making this Iconic Beef Lasagna: Make sure to let your lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to serve.

Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese. Try using a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and fontina for a unique flavor twist. Finally, adding a pinch of nutmeg to your ricotta mixture can add an unexpected depth of flavor to your lasagna. Enjoy!