14 Ground Beef Recipes for Meal Prep

Ground beef is such a fantastic ingredient, isn’t it?

It’s incredibly versatile and can be transformed into so many delicious meals.

I’ve gathered 14 mouthwatering meal prep recipes that will make this humble ingredient shine in your kitchen.

From classic lasagna to hearty beef and vegetable soup, there’s something here for everyone.

Let’s explore these tasty ideas and make weeknight dinners a breeze!

Classic Beef Lasagna Prep

Lasagna is a popular Italian dish that’s hearty, delicious, and perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s a layered pasta dish filled with ground beef, cheese, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked to perfection. Classic Beef Lasagna is a great dish for Sunday dinners, potlucks, or any special occasion where you want to serve something everyone will love.

Making lasagna might seem complicated at first, but once you break down the steps, it’s quite simple. This recipe will guide you through the process and will leave you with a lasagna that’s so good, it might even outshine your grandma’s. This recipe will serve 4-6 people, so it’s perfect for a family meal or a small gathering.

Ingredients:

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 eggs
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onions and garlic and continue cooking until the onions are tender.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Let the sauce simmer for 15 minutes.
4. While the sauce is simmering, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese and eggs until well combined.
6. To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange 3 noodles on top, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture, a layer of mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheeses on top.
7. Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, use a high-quality ground beef with a fat content of around 15-20%. This will guarantee that your lasagna is flavorful and moist.

You can also make the meat sauce a day in advance to let the flavors develop more. Finally, don’t skip the step of letting the lasagna rest after baking. This will make it easier to slice and will prevent it from falling apart when you serve it.

Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup

Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any time of the year, but particularly during the cold winter months. This soup is a complete meal in itself, brimming with high-quality protein from the ground beef, an array of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, and plenty of fiber from the beans. The ingredients are simple and readily available, making this dish an easy, go-to recipe for feeding a family or entertaining friends.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can use any combination of vegetables you have on hand, or even substitute the ground beef with other types of meat. It’s a great way to use up leftovers, and it always turns out delicious. The rich, flavorful broth, tender beef, and chunky vegetables create a harmony of textures and flavors that’s truly satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup chopped green beans
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

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.
2. Remove the beef from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Return the beef to the pot. Add the green beans, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, basil, and oregano. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the flavors are well blended and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Extra Tips:

When cooking the soup, be sure to simmer it gently to prevent the vegetables from becoming too soft and mushy.

If you prefer your soup to have a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the beans or add a little cornstarch mixed with cold water towards the end of the cooking time.

Don’t forget to adjust the seasonings before serving, as the flavors will intensify as the soup cooks.

This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. It also freezes well, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Preparing Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers

Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the robust taste of ground beef with the natural sweetness of bell peppers. It’s a recipe that embodies home cooking, with its comforting feel and satisfying taste.

It’s a versatile meal that works perfectly for a family dinner, a potluck, or a dinner party. The peppers not only provide a vibrant, colorful exterior but also act as an edible bowl, making for a unique, eye-catching presentation.

This recipe is beginner-friendly and requires only simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. The key to this dish is the quality of the ground beef and the freshness of the bell peppers. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, and make certain to select firm, brightly colored bell peppers.

Here are the ingredients needed to make Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers for 4-6 people:

• 6 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Now, let’s move on to the cooking instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the bell peppers by cutting off the tops and removing the seeds and membranes. Set them aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until the onions become translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Make sure to break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, salt, pepper, and paprika. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes until everything is well combined.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, making sure to pack it in firmly. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the stuffed peppers.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

One tip to keep in mind when making Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers is to guarantee that the peppers can stand upright in the baking dish. If they’re wobbly, you can cut a small slice off the bottom to create a flat base.

Remember not to cut too much, as you don’t want a hole at the bottom. Also, feel free to experiment with different kinds of cheese for the topping. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses would work beautifully. Enjoy this wholesome, delicious dish!

Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-fry

Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-fry is a simple, delicious, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The savory flavors of the ground beef blend excellently with the crisp and tender broccoli, making it a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

This recipe isn’t only quick and easy to prepare, but it also requires minimal ingredients that you may already have in your pantry.

This dish is a perfect balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals, as it combines lean beef and green broccoli. The ground beef provides the protein and iron, while the broccoli adds a plethora of vitamins and antioxidants, making it a healthful choice for a meal.

Additionally, the addition of aromatic garlic and ginger, along with soy sauce and sesame oil, gives this stir-fry a delightful Asian flair.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 2 cups of broccoli florets
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Cooking instructions:

1. Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and season it with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbled, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about a minute until they become aromatic.
5. Next, add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes until they become tender but still have a bit of crunch.
6. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix it with the broccoli.
7. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce and sesame oil. Pour this mixture over the beef and broccoli. Stir until everything is well coated.
8. If desired, sprinkle the stir-fry with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
9. Garnish the dish with sliced green onions before serving.

Extra tips:

When cooking the broccoli, make sure not to overcook it. The broccoli should still have a bit of crunch to it, which adds texture to the dish.

If you want to add more vegetables, feel free to do so. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots would work well in this recipe.

Also, remember to taste as you go and adjust the seasonings according to your preference.

Finally, serve this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy!

How to Prep Beef Tacos

Ground beef is a versatile ingredient with a rich, comforting flavor that forms the base of countless dishes. One of the most popular and universally adored dishes that highlights this ingredient is beef tacos. These aren’t only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making them a perfect meal for any day of the week.

Whether served at a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, beef tacos are sure to be a hit.

The recipe we’ve below provides a simple yet flavorful take on traditional beef tacos. It combines the robust flavor of ground beef with the freshness of tomatoes and lettuce, the creaminess of cheese, and the tang of salsa. The result is a taco that’s satisfyingly crunchy, juicy, and packed with a medley of flavors that will make your tastebuds dance.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 12 taco shells
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by preheating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooking oil and allow it to heat up.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s no longer pink and is evenly crumbled. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef. Stir to combine until the beef is evenly coated with the seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. While the beef is simmering, heat your taco shells as per the package instructions.
6. Once the taco shells are ready, it’s time to assemble your tacos. Start by spooning a generous amount of seasoned ground beef into each shell.
7. Follow this with a sprinkling of diced onions, a handful of shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes.
8. Top this off with a spoonful of salsa and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
9. Finish each taco with a dollop of sour cream and serve immediately.

When preparing your beef tacos, remember that the key to a great taco lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The beef should be juicy and flavorful, but not overly greasy.

The veggies should be fresh and crisp. The cheese should be melty and creamy, and the salsa should provide a tangy contrast. Feel free to adjust the quantities of the toppings according to your preference.

You can also add other toppings like guacamole, jalapenos or black olives for an extra kick. Enjoy your meal!

Making Ahead Beef Shepherd’s Pie

A classic comfort food, the Beef Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for a chilly evening. This delectable pie, made from ground beef, vegetables, and a crust of creamy mashed potatoes, offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

It’s a complete meal in itself, providing protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables all in one dish. The best part is, you can make it ahead and bake it just before serving, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or dinner parties.

This recipe of Beef Shepherd’s Pie serves 4-6 people. Its rich, savory filling, topped with fluffy mashed potatoes, is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s faces. What’s more, it’s easy to make, allowing even novice cooks to create a dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and corn)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1/2 cup milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain the excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and cook until the onions become translucent.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.
5. While the beef mixture is simmering, boil the potatoes until tender. Drain and mash them with the milk and butter until smooth and creamy.
6. Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the beef mixture, making sure to cover it completely.
7. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
8. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

When making this Beef Shepherd’s Pie, feel free to customize the vegetable mix according to your preference. You can also add other spices or herbs like rosemary or thyme to the beef mixture for added flavor.

If you’re making this dish ahead, prepare up to step 6, cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the cheese and bake as directed.

Juicy Meatloaf Meal Prep

Juicy Meatloaf Meal Prep is a classic American dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or for meal prepping for the week. This hearty meal combines lean ground beef, vegetables, and a blend of spices to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. The meatloaf is baked until it’s perfectly juicy and then served with a rich, tangy tomato sauce on top.

It’s a dish that can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or for meal prep. The Juicy Meatloaf Meal Prep recipe is quite simple and doesn’t require professional cooking skills. It’s all about mixing the ingredients together, shaping it into a loaf, and baking it in the oven.

This recipe is designed for 4-6 servings, perfect for a family dinner or for meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 eggs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon mustard

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, bell pepper, eggs, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix all these ingredients together until they’re well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Stir them together until they form a smooth sauce.
5. Spread this sauce over the top of the meatloaf, making sure it’s evenly covered.
6. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the sauce on top is caramelized.
7. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Extra Tips:

When preparing the Juicy Meatloaf Meal Prep, it’s essential to let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, guaranteeing that every slice is moist and flavorful.

For meal prep, allow the meatloaf to cool completely before slicing and storing in airtight containers. This will make sure that the meatloaf retains its moisture and flavor when reheated.

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash

Ground beef and sweet potato hash is an incredibly tasty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. It’s packed full of flavor and nutrients, thanks to the combination of lean ground beef, sweet potatoes, onions, and spices. This hearty meal is sure to become a family favorite due to its versatility and ease of preparation.

Whether you’re cooking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

The great thing about this ground beef and sweet potato hash is that it requires very simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to make and clean up. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and leftovers can be enjoyed throughout the week. This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the peppers soften, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to guarantee even cooking.
3. While the beef is cooking, season it with the paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine the seasonings with the beef and vegetables.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
5. Once the sweet potatoes are cooked to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat.
6. Garnish the hash with fresh parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

To make the dish even more nutritious, you can add other vegetables like spinach or kale. If you prefer your hash a bit spicy, feel free to add a dash of chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes.

Remember to adjust the cooking time if you cut your sweet potatoes into larger pieces as they may take longer to cook. This dish is best served hot, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Beef and Bean Chili Recipe

When the weather turns chilly, nothing warms you up faster than a bowl of homemade beef and bean chili. This hearty dish is a perfect blend of ground beef, beans, and spices, simmered to perfection. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a great way to get in a serving of protein and fiber.

Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or weekend get-togethers.

Our beef and bean chili recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your taste. Want it spicier? Add more chili powder. Prefer it less chunky? Mash some of the beans. The best part about this recipe is that it tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. So, don’t be afraid to make a big batch and save some for later.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of lean ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) of red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 can (6 oz) of tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons of chili powder
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1 cup of water
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Be sure to break up the meat into small chunks as it cooks.
2. Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of the beef fat in the pot for sautéing the onions and garlic.
3. Add the diced onions to the pot and cook them over medium heat until they become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Add the drained and rinsed beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
5. Pour in the water and stir again. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for at least 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pot.
6. After 1 hour, check the flavor and adjust the seasonings if needed. If you want a thicker chili, you can let it simmer uncovered for another 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve the chili in bowls, topped with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.

Extra Tips:

When cooking the ground beef, you can use a potato masher to break it up into smaller pieces. This will create a more uniform texture in the chili.

Also, feel free to use different types of beans in your chili. Pinto beans, cannellini beans, or even chickpeas can be great additions. If you have leftover chili, store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.

Prepping Bolognese Sauce With Ground Beef

Ground Beef Bolognese Sauce is a hearty and flavorful dish that can turn any pasta meal into a comforting dinner. This traditional Italian recipe, hailing from Bologna, is a rich and velvety sauce that coats every strand of pasta with a delightful blend of meat and tomatoes. The ground beef lends a robust body to the sauce, while the aromatic vegetables and herbs provide a pleasing complexity of flavor, making it an all-time family favorite.

Preparing Ground Beef Bolognese Sauce requires a few simple steps and ingredients, but the result is truly worth the effort. This recipe yields enough Bolognese sauce for 4-6 servings, making it ideal for a family dinner or a small gathering. Now, let’s explore the ingredients and steps required for making this heartwarming dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup red wine
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Make sure to break the meat into small pieces with a spatula for even cooking. Once done, remove the beef and set it aside.
2. Next, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the same skillet. Sauté them over medium heat until they’re soft and fragrant, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the tomato paste until the vegetables are well-coated, then add in the crushed tomatoes, red wine, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.
4. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir it into the sauce. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Ultimately, stir in the heavy cream to give the sauce a rich and creamy texture. Let it cook for another 2 minutes before removing from the heat.
6. Serve the Ground Beef Bolognese Sauce over pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Extra Tips:

When making Ground Beef Bolognese Sauce, patience is key. Letting the sauce simmer for a good amount of time allows the flavors to develop and intensify, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Adding the heavy cream at the end gives the sauce a luxurious texture and a hint of sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Lastly, don’t skimp on the Parmesan cheese when serving – it adds a marvelous salty, nutty flavor that completes the dish.

Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a hearty and flavorful dish that originated from Eastern Europe. The succulent ground beef mixture, combined with rice and traditional seasonings, is wrapped in cabbage leaves and baked to perfection. This dish offers a satisfying and well-rounded meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

This recipe takes a unique spin on the classic stuffed cabbage rolls by adding a savory filling of ground beef and rice. The cabbage leaves act as a natural wrapper, keeping all the delicious flavors inside. Once baked, the cabbage becomes tender, and the filling remains juicy and flavorful. This dish serves 4-6 people and is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 12 large cabbage leaves
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place a generous scoop of the beef and rice mixture in the center. Fold in the sides and roll up the cabbage leaf to encase the filling. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
4. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in a large baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Pour this sauce over the stuffed cabbage rolls in the baking dish.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.

When preparing Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, be sure to choose cabbage leaves that are large and sturdy enough to hold the filling. You can blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for a few minutes to make them more pliable if needed.

Also, don’t overfill the cabbage leaves; otherwise, the filling might spill out during baking. Finally, for a vegetarian option, you could substitute ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative. Enjoy this delicious, comforting meal!

Ground Beef Enchiladas for Meal Prep

Ground beef enchiladas are an excellent choice for meal prep, providing a hearty, flavorful dish that can be easily prepared in advance and enjoyed throughout the week. This traditional Mexican dish is made with a savory ground beef filling, wrapped in tortillas, and topped with a rich and tangy enchilada sauce and melted cheese. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also versatile, allowing you to add extra ingredients or adjust the spice level to suit your personal taste.

Indulge in this satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and store, making your weeknight dinners a breeze. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a convenient meal solution or a parent trying to juggle a hectic schedule, these ground beef enchiladas are a lifesaver. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, perfect for a family meal or for a week’s worth of ready-to-go lunches.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• 12 small corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks.
4. Stir in the black beans, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
5. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.
6. Take a tortilla and spoon a portion of the beef and bean mixture down the center. Sprinkle with a bit of cheese, and roll the tortilla tightly around the filling. Place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
7. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
9. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.

Some additional tips to enhance your cooking experience: You can add other ingredients to your enchiladas such as corn, bell peppers, or jalapenos for extra flavor and texture.

If you want to make it spicier, consider adding some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the beef as it cooks. Finally, these enchiladas freeze well, making them a perfect meal prep option. Simply prepare them up to the point of baking, then cover tightly and freeze.

When you’re ready to eat, bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Enjoy this delicious and practical meal anytime!

Beef and Vegetable Skillet Meal Prep

Looking for a tasty, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal? The Beef and Vegetable Skillet Meal Prep is a perfect choice that’s bound to satisfy your taste buds. This one-pan dish is a delightful combination of ground beef and colorful, nutritious vegetables. It’s not only delicious but also healthy, a perfect mix of protein, fiber, and vitamins.

The beauty of this meal is that it’s easy to prepare, and it’s also perfect for meal prepping, as you can cook in bulk and refrigerate the leftovers for later use.

The Beef and Vegetable Skillet Meal Prep is a versatile dish that can be customized based on your preferences. If you aren’t a fan of any vegetable listed, feel free to substitute it with your favorite ones. The same goes for the spices; you can spice it up or down according to your liking. With this recipe, you can serve a hearty and nutritious meal for 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 medium-sized carrots, chopped
• 1 cup of peas
• 1 cup of corn kernels
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
• 1 cup of shredded cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet.
2. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onions become translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink.
4. Add the chopped peppers, carrots, peas, and corn to the skillet. Stir everything together.
5. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to guarantee that the seasoning is evenly distributed.
6. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
7. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the mixture, then cover the skillet again and let it cook for a few more minutes until the cheese is melted.
8. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

When cooking this dish, it’s important to remember to stir the mixture occasionally to prevent sticking and burning. You can also add a splash of water or broth if the mixture starts to dry out too much.

Apart from that, feel free to get creative with this recipe. You can add more vegetables or try different types of ground meat. The key is to make this dish as enjoyable and suitable to your taste as possible. Enjoy your Beef and Vegetable Skillet Meal Prep!

Spaghetti and Meatballs Preparation Tips

Spaghetti and meatballs is a heartwarming, comfort food classic that’s perfect for family dinners. Originating from Italy, this dish has become a staple in households around the world. The combination of rich tomato sauce, tender ground beef meatballs, and perfectly cooked spaghetti creates a savory, satisfying meal that’s sure to please any crowd.

Creating spaghetti and meatballs from scratch can seem intimidating, but with the right preparation and a little patience, the process can be straightforward and even fun. This recipe is designed for a serving size of 4-6 people, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients until they’re thoroughly combined.
2. Roll the beef mixture into meatballs, each about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and set aside.
3. In a large pot, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook them until they’re browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook it until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir the ingredients together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer them in the sauce for about 15 minutes, or until they’re cooked through.
8. Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked spaghetti. Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.

When cooking spaghetti and meatballs, remember to not overmix the meatball mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough. Instead, gently combine the ingredients until they’re just mixed.

Also, be sure to cook the spaghetti to al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when it’s mixed with the hot sauce. Finally, simmer the sauce for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

With these tips in mind, you’re sure to create a delicious spaghetti and meatballs dish that everyone will love.