Introduction

Ground beef is a kitchen essential that’s perfect for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re whipping up tacos for a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a rich pasta sauce, knowing how to cook ground beef just right can make all the difference. This easy recipe will guide you through cooking ground beef that’s flavorful, juicy, and ready for any meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water (optional)

Instructions

1. Get Your Ingredients Ready

  • Chop the onion and mince the garlic. If you’re using olive oil, have it handy.

2. Heat Your Pan

  • Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. If using olive oil, add it and let it heat until it’s shimmering.

3. Cook the Ground Beef

  • Add the ground beef to the hot pan. Break it up into chunks with a spatula or wooden spoon.
  • Let it cook without stirring for a minute or two to get a nice brown crust. Then, stir occasionally until the beef is fully browned, about 8-10 minutes.

4. Add Flavor

  • If you used oil, add the chopped onion and minced garlic once the beef is starting to brown. Cook until the onion is soft and the garlic smells great, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Sprinkle in the paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the spices cook with the beef for 1-2 minutes.

5. Add Moisture (If Needed)

  • If the beef looks a bit dry, pour in 1/2 cup of beef broth or water. Stir and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, so the flavors meld together and the beef stays juicy.

6. Taste and Serve

  • Taste the beef and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once it’s well-seasoned and cooked through, remove it from the heat.
  • Serve your ground beef in tacos, pasta dishes, casseroles, or any recipe that calls for it.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re cooking more than 1 lb of beef, do it in batches. This helps the beef brown evenly.
  • Choose Lean Beef: 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef works best for a good balance of flavor and fat.
  • Freeze for Convenience: Cooked ground beef can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months. It’s great for quick meals later!

Conclusion

This easy ground beef recipe is a great go-to for many meals. It’s simple, versatile, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making tacos, a hearty pasta sauce, or a comforting casserole, this recipe will help you get it just right every time. Enjoy your delicious, homemade meals!