12 Tasty Ground Beef Recipes With Vegetables

I’ve been having so much fun experimenting with ground beef and fresh vegetables.

These two ingredients come together in the most delicious and satisfying ways!

From a cozy zucchini beef casserole to a comforting beef and vegetable soup, there’s something for every craving.

And let’s not forget the quick and tasty beef and broccoli stir fry that’s perfect for busy nights!

I’ve rounded up twelve scrumptious recipes that are not only full of flavor but also packed with nutrients.

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is an Asian-inspired dish that’s quick to prepare and absolutely delicious. This dish is a perfect blend of tender, flavorful beef and crisp, fresh broccoli florets, all cooked together in a savory sauce. It’s a versatile meal that can be served over rice, noodles or even on its own. With the use of ground beef, it can be prepared in less time while still offering a satisfying and filling meal.

This recipe is an excellent way to incorporate more veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor. The broccoli is cooked just enough to soften it slightly while retaining its vibrant green color and crunch. The ground beef is seasoned with a combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, giving it a rich and aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the broccoli.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
• 1/4 cup of water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Steamed rice or noodles to serve (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. First, heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Once the beef is fully cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Don’t clean the pan, the leftover juices will add flavor to the broccoli.
3. In the same pan, add the broccoli florets. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften. You want them to still have a slight crunch, so be careful not to overcook.
4. While the broccoli is cooking, mix together the soy sauce, cornstarch, water, minced garlic, and ginger in a bowl. This will be your stir-fry sauce.
5. Once the broccoli is done, add the cooked ground beef back into the pan. Pour the stir-fry sauce over the beef and broccoli, stirring well to guarantee everything is coated.
6. Let the dish simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cooks.
7. Once everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Your Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is now ready to serve!

When cooking this dish, it’s important to remember that the broccoli should still have a bit of crunch to it. Overcooking the broccoli can result in it becoming mushy, which isn’t as enjoyable.

Additionally, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and ginger used in the recipe to suit your taste. Some might prefer a more pronounced flavor, while others might like it more subtle.

Finally, this dish is best served immediately while it’s still hot.

Stuffed Bell Peppers Extravaganza

Stuffed Bell Peppers Extravaganza is a vibrant, flavourful dish that can be a showstopper at any dinner table. With a hearty filling of ground beef, rice, and a medley of vegetables, all nestled within a brightly colored bell pepper, this dish strikes a perfect balance between nutrition and taste. The juices from the ground beef seep into the rice and vegetables, while the bell pepper lends its unique sweetness to the filling, creating a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist.

This recipe is relatively simple to prepare and is a great way to sneak in some vegetables into your diet. It’s also very adaptable – you can use any ground meat of your choice, and experiment with different vegetables, herbs, and spices for the filling.

Now, let’s get started on making this Stuffed Bell Peppers Extravaganza for 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 6 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1.5 lbs of ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of cooked rice
• 1 cup of diced tomatoes
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté until the onions become translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through. Make sure to break up the beef into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Once the beef is cooked, add the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, half of the shredded cheese, and fresh parsley to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Arrange the hollowed bell peppers in a baking dish. Spoon the ground beef mixture into each bell pepper until they’re filled to the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
7. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and top each bell pepper with the remaining shredded cheese. Continue to bake for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let the peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.

When making this dish, remember to choose bell peppers that are large and have a flat bottom, so they can stand upright in the baking dish.

Also, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This way, you can quickly assemble and bake the peppers whenever you’re ready to serve them.

Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking by adding different vegetables, such as corn or mushrooms, or using different types of cheese. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this Stuffed Bell Peppers Extravaganza!

Hearty Zucchini Beef Casserole

The Hearty Zucchini Beef Casserole is a comforting and robust dish that’s perfect for family dinners or when entertaining guests. With a medley of flavors from ground beef, fresh zucchinis, and melting cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s not only tasty but also nutritious.

It’s an easy-to-make recipe that allows you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. A combination of savory ground beef, tender zucchini, and a creamy, cheesy topping gives this casserole its unique, mouthwatering appeal.

This meal is filling yet balanced, offering a good dose of protein, vegetables, and dairy. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and the results deliciously satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds of ground beef
• 3 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic and sauté until they become translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, then cook until it’s browned and cooked through.
4. Drain the excess fat from the skillet, then stir in the tomato sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. Layer half of the sliced zucchinis at the bottom of the baking dish. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the zucchinis.
6. Repeat with the remaining zucchini slices and beef mixture.
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

When making this Hearty Zucchini Beef Casserole, you can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your preference. If you want the dish to be spicier, you can also add some chili flakes or jalapenos.

Freshly chopped parsley or basil can be sprinkled on top for added freshness and color. Remember, the key to a great casserole is to bake it until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly, ensuring a deliciously crispy top layer. Happy cooking!

Classic Beef and Vegetable Soup

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of homemade soup, especially when it’s packed with hearty ground beef and a rainbow of healthy, colorful vegetables. Classic Beef and Vegetable Soup is a timeless dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a flavorful, filling meal that warms you from the inside out.

This recipe is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want a satisfying dinner, and it’s also a great way to use up any vegetables you might’ve on hand.

Although this soup takes a bit of time to prepare due to the various ingredients involved, it’s a straightforward, simple recipe that even beginner cooks can tackle with confidence. The end result is a richly flavored, hearty soup that can serve as a meal in itself, especially when paired with crusty bread and a green salad.

This recipe yields between 4-6 servings, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or meal planning.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the carrots, celery, green beans, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook the vegetables until they begin to soften, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Return the cooked beef to the pot. Add the corn, diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, thyme, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the soup hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread.

Extra Cooking Tips:

When cooking this Classic Beef and Vegetable Soup, patience is key. Allow each ingredient enough time to cook and the flavors to blend together properly. This isn’t a dish to rush.

Also, feel free to substitute or add any vegetables you desire or have on hand. This recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your taste. Remember to always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.

Finally, this soup tends to thicken as it sits, so add a bit more broth or water when reheating leftovers.

Flavorful Bolognese With Mixed Veggies

If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy your family’s hunger, then your quest ends here with Flavorful Bolognese with Mixed Veggies. This recipe uses ground beef as its main protein source, combined with a variety of vegetables for added nutrients and taste. The combination of the rich, savory meat sauce and the tender vegetables makes for a delicious meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Making this dish at home is quite easy, even for beginners in the kitchen. All you need are some basic ingredients and a little bit of patience to let the flavors meld together. The result is a rich, comforting bowl of Bolognese that pairs perfectly with pasta, bread, or even rice.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned. Make sure to break up the meat into small pieces with a spoon.
2. Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, diced celery, and diced red bell pepper to the pan. Cook these ingredients together until the vegetables are tender, which should take about 10 minutes.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine these ingredients with the meat and veggies.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the Bolognese sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
5. After the sauce has simmered, taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs if you’d like.
6. Serve the Bolognese sauce over your choice of pasta, bread, or rice. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy!

Extra Tips:

When cooking the Bolognese sauce, don’t rush the simmering process. This is where the flavors really come together, so it’s worth taking the extra time.

Also, you can add other veggies to this dish if you’d like. Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach would all be delicious additions.

Finally, don’t forget to save some Parmesan cheese for garnish – it adds a lovely salty bite that balances out the rich sauce. Enjoy your cooking!

Spicy Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Spicy Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a hearty, comforting, and delicious dish that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something nutritious and satisfying, but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. This recipe combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the sweet and slightly crunchy texture of cabbage, all brought together with a spicy kick that will tantalize your taste buds.

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served as a stand-alone meal, or paired with your favorite side dish – think mashed potatoes, rice, or a crusty loaf of bread. It’s also a great way to use up leftover cabbage. Without further ado, let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeno, diced
• 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced jalapeno. Cook these ingredients until the onion becomes translucent and the jalapeno is soft, which should take about 5 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up into small pieces using a wooden spoon and cook until it’s fully browned. This should take about 10 minutes.
3. Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. Make certain to stir occasionally to prevent any ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
5. Once the cabbage is tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Extra Tips:

When cooking the Spicy Beef and Cabbage Skillet, it’s important to guarantee that the cabbage is cooked until it’s just tender – overcooking can make it mushy.

If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking, or even omit it entirely.

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and flavor. Remember, the best part about cooking is making a recipe your own, so don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it!

Beefy Veggie-packed Lasagna

Beefy Veggie-packed Lasagna is an excellent dish for both meat and vegetable lovers. The ground beef gives the lasagna a hearty and savory flavor, while the variety of vegetables adds a healthy twist and an exciting crunch. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, as it serves 4-6 people, and is sure to be a hit with both the kids and adults.

Making this Beefy Veggie-packed Lasagna may seem a bit intimidating at first, with its multiple layers and variety of ingredients. However, once you get the hang of it, you’ll find that it’s quite simple and even fun to put together. Plus, the delicious end result is definitely worth the effort!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups of chopped vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of tomato sauce (15 oz)
• 1 can of diced tomatoes (15 oz)
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups of ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese
• 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain the fat.
3. Add the chopped vegetables, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and egg.
6. Spread a thin layer of the meat and vegetable sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining cheeses on top.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the lasagna is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown. Let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Extra Tips:

When cooking the lasagna, make sure to cover it with foil for the first part of the baking time. This will keep the cheese from burning and allow the lasagna to cook evenly.

Also, letting the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before serving will help it hold its shape when you cut into it.

Mouthwatering Beef and Carrot Stew

The aroma of a simmering beef stew fills the home with a warmth and coziness that few other dishes can. The delectable blend of tender beef, hearty carrots, and savory spices make this mouthwatering beef and carrot stew a perfect dish for those cooler days, or whenever you’re in the mood for some comfort food.

This recipe is simple to follow, and the result is a stew that’s rich, filling, and simply irresistible. The key to achieving the perfect beef and carrot stew lies in slow cooking the beef until it’s tender and flavorful. The carrots add a hint of sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the beef and spices, resulting in a stew that’s balanced and satisfying.

This recipe serves 4-6 people and is sure to become a staple in your home.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds of chuck roast, cut into chunks
• 1.5 pounds of carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of beef broth
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of thyme
• 1 teaspoon of rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of flour
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chunks of chuck roast and season them with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides and then remove it from the pot.
2. In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Add the tomato paste to the pot and stir it into the onions and garlic. Cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture in the pot and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
6. Return the meat to the pot and add the chopped carrots, thyme, and rosemary.
7. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
8. Once the stew is done cooking, stir in the butter until it melts into the stew.
9. Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

When making this beef and carrot stew, it’s important to remember not to rush the cooking process. Slow cooking the stew allows the flavors to develop fully and the beef to become tender.

Also, feel free to add other vegetables to the stew if you’d like. Potatoes, peas, and celery would all make great additions. Enjoy this comforting stew with a side of crusty bread for a meal that’s sure to please.

Savory Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie

The Savory Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie is a delightful twist on the traditional shepherd’s pie. The sweet potatoes add a unique element of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory richness of the ground beef. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up this delectable dish in no time.

This recipe uses ground beef as the primary protein, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey or lamb for a different flavor profile. The sweet potatoes can be baked or boiled before being mashed, depending on your preference. The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility, allowing you to make adjustments as per your taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 teaspoon rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon thyme, chopped
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into chunks and boil them in a pot of salted water until soft. Drain and mash them with butter and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until they soften. Add the rosemary and thyme and cook for another minute.
5. Stir in the frozen vegetables, then sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Return the ground beef to the skillet and mix well. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish. Spread the mashed sweet potatoes evenly over the top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly. Allow the pie to rest for a few minutes before serving.

When making the Savory Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie, keep in mind that the sweet potato topping can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. This can help save time on busy nights.

Additionally, for a creamier sweet potato mash, you can add a touch of cream cheese or sour cream. Finally, you can also add additional vegetables or switch them out based on your preference. Enjoy this lovely dish with a side of fresh salad or steamed veggies.

Beef, Mushroom, and Spinach Saute

Beef, Mushroom, and Spinach Saute is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender, juicy beef cooked with fresh mushrooms and spinach creates a mouth-watering combination of flavors that are certain to satisfy.

Whether it’s for a family dinner or a simple meal for yourself, this recipe is bound to be a hit. One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is. You can add more vegetables if you like, or switch out the spinach for kale or Swiss chard.

It’s also a great way to use up leftover ground beef. The mushroom and spinach add a nice balance to the beef, making this dish as healthy as it’s delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms
• 2 cups packed fresh spinach
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, breaking up the beef into small pieces as it cooks, about 10 minutes.
3. Once the beef is fully cooked, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Continue to cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the beef broth to the skillet, stirring well to combine. This will help to deglaze the pan, lifting any flavorful bits that may be stuck to the bottom.
5. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, cooking just until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Once all the ingredients are well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. The dish is now ready to be served.

Tips:

While cooking the ground beef, make sure to break it up into small pieces to guarantee that it cooks evenly. You can use a wooden spoon or a spatula to do this.

Additionally, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. This recipe is also a great way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters, as the flavors blend together beautifully.

Enjoy this Beef, Mushroom, and Spinach Saute with some freshly cooked rice or warm bread for a complete meal.

Taco Salad With Ground Beef

Taco Salad with Ground Beef is an easy-to-make, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.

It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized according to your taste preferences. This dish combines the savory taste of ground beef with the fresh flavors of lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and more. Topped with a tangy dressing and served with crunchy tortilla chips, this salad is a complete meal in itself.

Here, we’ll guide you through a simple and delicious recipe for Taco Salad with Ground Beef. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. Let’s get started with the list of ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded
• 2 large tomatoes, diced
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can sweet corn, drained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 bag tortilla chips
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure to break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks.
2. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add the taco seasoning to the beef, and stir well to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the beef is well-coated with the seasoning.
4. In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, black beans, and sweet corn.
5. Add the cooked ground beef to the salad bowl, and toss everything together to combine.
6. Top the salad with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced olives, and chopped cilantro.
7. Serve the salad with tortilla chips, salsa, and sour cream on the side. Each person can customize their own salad according to their preferences.

Extra Tips:

Remember to drain the canned beans and corn before adding them to the salad to avoid excess moisture.

When serving, you can either mix the salsa and sour cream into the salad, or let each person add their own according to taste. Additionally, the salad can be made ahead and refrigerated, but add the tortilla chips just before serving to keep them crispy.

Enjoy your Taco Salad with Ground Beef!

Delicious Beef and Eggplant Moussaka

Elevate your weeknight dinner with a delicious Mediterranean classic – Beef and Eggplant Moussaka. This layered dish is a comforting concoction of ground beef, eggplant, and a creamy bechamel sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s hearty, satisfying, and full of flavors that will transport you straight to Greece.

Moussaka is considered a culinary gem of Greek cuisine, but it’s also popular in other Balkan countries and the Middle East. The key to a great moussaka is the quality of the ingredients. Fresh eggplant, high-quality ground beef, and authentic Greek spices are essential to achieving the traditional taste.

Now, let’s begin a culinary journey to make this delicious dish!

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants
• 500g of ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of chopped tomatoes (400g)
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon of allspice
• 1/2 cup of red wine
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 100g of unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of milk
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan).
2. Slice the eggplants into 1cm-thick rounds. Arrange them on a baking tray, lightly brush with olive oil, and bake for 20 minutes, or until soft and slightly golden.
3. While the eggplants are baking, heat the remaining olive oil in a large frying pan. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 10 minutes.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes, red wine, cinnamon, and allspice. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. To make the bechamel sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour until smooth, then gradually whisk in the milk. Cook until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat.
7. Stir in the beaten eggs and half of the Parmesan cheese into the bechamel sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
8. In a large baking dish, layer half of the eggplant slices, then top with the meat sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with eggplant.
9. Pour the bechamel sauce over the top, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
10. Bake the moussaka in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Extra Cooking Tips:

Ensure you choose ripe and firm eggplants for this recipe as it contributes greatly to the texture and flavor of the dish.

Also, try to use authentic Greek spices if possible. If you can’t find them, a blend of oregano, thyme, and rosemary can be an acceptable substitute.

Finally, allowing the moussaka to stand for a few minutes before serving helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy this hearty and comforting dish with a side of Greek salad or warm crusty bread.