How to Make Ground Beef Perfectly Every Time
Table of Contents
Hey there, food lovers! It’s Chef Sara here again, ready to share another kitchen staple with you. Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of ground beef. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for tacos, spaghetti, or something hearty, perfectly cooked ground beef is a game-changer. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal for flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely diced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon cumin, or any of your favorite spices
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, allowing it to heat up. You’ll want the pan to be nice and hot so the beef sears properly, creating that beautiful caramelization.
Step 2: Cook the Onion and Garlic
If you’re using onion and garlic, add them to the hot pan first. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This step will infuse the beef with delicious flavors.
Step 3: Add the Ground Beef Recipes
Place the ground beef in the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula. Spread it out so it covers the pan evenly. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes without stirring, allowing the bottom to get a good sear.
Step 4: Season and Brown
After letting the beef brown, stir it to flip and break apart any larger chunks. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices you love. Continue cooking for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and cooked through.
Step 5: Drain the Fat (if necessary)
Once the beef is cooked, you may notice some fat in the pan. If you prefer leaner beef, you can drain the excess fat by tilting the pan and using a spoon or draining it into a container.
Step 6: Serve or Store
And that’s it! Your perfectly cooked ground beef is ready to serve. Use it immediately in your favorite recipe, or let it cool and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Timing & Serving Suggestions:
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparing the pan | 2 minutes |
| Cooking onions & garlic | 3-4 minutes |
| Cooking ground beef | 8-10 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
This recipe is super versatile! You can use this beef for tacos, pasta dishes, casseroles, or even meal prep for the week. Add a bit of chili powder and paprika for a spicier kick or keep it simple with just salt and pepper for more mild dishes.
