Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey with our southern ground beef recipes that bring all the comfort and charm of Southern cooking right to your kitchen. These recipes are not only rich in taste but also simple to prepare, making them perfect for those busy weekday nights. Let’s dive right in and transform everyday ingredients into a southern feast that your family will adore.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can of crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Olive oil for cooking
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Delicious Southern Ground Beef Recipes – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by organizing all your ingredients on the kitchen counter. Chop the onion and green bell peppers, mince your garlic, and have your ground beef ready. You’ll want everything within arm’s reach as you begin cooking. This preparation ensures a smooth cooking process, allowing you to focus on the art of brewing southern comfort without clutter.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional minute. The fragrance of the onions and garlic cooking will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the deliciousness to come.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with your wooden spoon as it cooks. You’re aiming to brown the beef evenly, so keep stirring occasionally. This process should take about 5-6 minutes. Browning the meat properly intensifies its flavor, which is essential for any southern beef dish.
Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients
Once the beef is browned, it’s time to introduce your green bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Stir these ingredients well to ensure everything is mixed thoroughly. The aromas now are a delightful teaser of the southern charm you’re about to serve at the table.
Step 5: Simmer the Mixture
Reduce the heat to low and let your ground beef mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully together, creating a rich sauce that is the hallmark of any good southern beef recipe. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This step is equivalent to giving the dish time to develop its full character.
How to Serve Delicious Southern Ground Beef Recipes
Once your ground beef mixture is fully cooked, serve it hot with a side of steamed rice, cornbread, or on top of mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort experience. Garnish with some freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
When preparing this dish, fresh ingredients will ensure the best flavors. Additionally, letting the beef rest for a few minutes after cooking enhances the taste dramatically. Feel free to experiment with other spices according to your personal preferences. Don’t have thyme? Try oregano or basil as excellent alternatives.
Elevate Your Dish with a High Protein Twist
If you’re aiming to increase the protein content of this recipe, consider incorporating dark leafy greens such as spinach or kale. These additions not only raise the protein levels but also increase the fiber content, making this dish more nutritious.
You might also like to add legumes like black beans or kidney beans. These not only amp up the protein content but add a lovely texture to the dish that complements the beef perfectly.
Create a Low Carb Delight with This Recipe
For a low-carb version of this classic dish, replace the crushed tomatoes and rice with low-carb vegetables like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. These alternatives keep the dish light and fulfilling without sacrificing any flavor.
Make sure to use a low-carb beef broth, and omit ingredients like Worcestershire sauce that may contain hidden sugars. You’ll still enjoy a mouthwatering southern ground beef experience while sticking to your low-carb lifestyle.
Storage Instructions
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer preservation, freeze the dish for up to two months. Ensure you label the container with the date for easy retrieval.
FAQs
- Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: Absolutely! The flavors deepen overnight making it even tastier when reheated. - Q: Can I substitute beef with another protein?
A: Certainly, ground turkey or chicken works well as alternative proteins. - Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili for some added heat. - Q: Can this recipe be cooked in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, after browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. - Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, just ensure all packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
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Savor the Flavor: Share Your Southern Ground Beef Experience!
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Delicious Southern Ground Beef Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- onion
- garlic
- crushed tomatoes
- beef broth
- green bell pepper
- Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper
- thyme
- paprika
- Olive oil
Instructions
Steps
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping onion, bell pepper and mincing garlic. Keep them within reach.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon and cook until browned.
- Mix in bell peppers, tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Stir well.
- Lower heat and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until flavors meld together.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides like rice or mashed potatoes.