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Best Ground Beef Dinner Ideas Cheap

Best Ground Beef Dinner Ideas Cheap

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Ingredients

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  • 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups beef broth (or water with a bouillon cube)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning or Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

    Place a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced onion. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

  2. Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

    Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the meat into small crumbles. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. If there is excess grease in the pan, carefully drain it into a heat-safe container to ensure the final dish isn’t too oily.

  3. Step 3: Simmer the Rice and Beef

    Stir the uncooked rice into the skillet with the beef and onions. Toast the rice for about 1 minute to enhance the flavor. Pour in the beef broth and add your chosen seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.

  4. Step 4: Melt the Cheese and Serve

    Once the rice is cooked, remove the lid and fluff the mixture with a fork. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Replace the lid for 1 or 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately while hot.