Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings comfort food to your table without much fuss. Imagine coming home after a long day to the aroma of savory beef and spices filling your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend gatherings. Plus, once all the ingredients are in the crockpot, you can kick back and relax as the magic happens!
Why Make This Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe
This Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Just brown the beef and chop a few vegetables, and you’re all set. Cooking with a crockpot allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. Additionally, this recipe is budget-friendly, making it accessible for anyone looking to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
How to Make Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe
Making this delectable dish requires minimal time and effort. You’ll need to start by browning the ground beef with some onions and garlic in a skillet. Once that’s done, everything goes into the crockpot, where it cooks slowly, allowing the ingredients to infuse their flavors. The result? A warm, comforting meal that is bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
Directions:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the crockpot.
- Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, beef broth, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Stir to combine all ingredients well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot, and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Here’s what one serving of this delicious dish contains (approximate values):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 4g
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
How to Serve Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe
This Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe is versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it plain or serve it with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocados, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. For a lighter option, consider serving it over a bed of mixed greens.
How to Store Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe
Storing leftovers from this dish is easy! Allow any unused portions to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the dish. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe
- Use lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier and reduce fat.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or carrots for added nutrition.
- Adjust the spices based on your heat preference; add more chili powder for extra kick!
- For a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans before adding them to the crockpot.
Delicious Variations
- Tex-Mex Style: Add corn and sprinkle with taco seasoning for a different twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with lentils or quinoa for a plant-based delight.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a gooey texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra spicy version.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute. Just ensure it’s cooked through before adding to the crockpot.
2. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
Absolutely! You can cook it in a pot over medium heat for about 30 minutes. Just make sure to stir occasionally.
3. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, check the broth and any canned ingredients for gluten-free labels, and you’ll be good to go!
4. How can I make it spicier?
Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to increase the heat!
5. Can I freeze the dish after cooking?
Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container once cooled.
6. What can I substitute for kidney beans?
Black beans or pinto beans are excellent alternatives if you prefer something different.
7. How do I know when it’s done cooking?
If cooked on low, it should be ready in 6-8 hours or 3-4 hours on high, with tender vegetables and thoroughly heated beef.
8. Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in any veggies you love, such as corn or mushrooms.
9. What goes well with this recipe?
Serve it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad to round out your meal.
10. Can I make this a one-pot meal?
Yes! Just add rice or quinoa in the last hour of cooking with extra broth for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe is a life-saver on busy days while delivering a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. With its simple preparation and cozy flavors, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your household. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let your crockpot work its magic! Don’t forget to share your experience or any tasty variations you come up with—happy cooking!
Print
Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A simple and satisfying Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe that brings comfort food to your table with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the crockpot.
- Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, beef broth, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Stir to combine all ingredients well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot, and enjoy!
Notes
Feel free to add other vegetables or adjust spices to your preference. Consider using lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: crockpot, ground beef, comfort food, easy recipes, hearty meals
