Description
Learn how to make delicious ground beef kids dinner. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients
To create this comforting dish, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples, along with a few fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked pasta (any shape your kids love)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
If you’re missing any of these ingredients, don’t worry. You can substitute ground turkey for beef, or use fresh tomatoes instead of canned if that’s what you have on hand. This recipe is flexible and forgiving, much like the meals I crafted during my college years.
Instructions
Creating this dish is as straightforward as it is satisfying. Follow these steps for a seamless cooking experience:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re adding red pepper flakes, do so now. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes. Serve immediately.
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how it mirrors the problem-solving I fell in love with as a young cook. Adjust the seasoning as needed, and remember, you’ve got this!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: ground beef kids dinner, recipe, cooking, food
