Beef Dinner Ideas

FAQs

Which Kind of Beef?

• The beef recipes will list what cut of meat to use such as “cubed chuck roast” or strip steak. The recipe may also include alternate cuts that still work well in the recipe.

What Is the Best Ground Beef To Use?

• Ground beef is sold according to the percentage of fat that it contains and when making ground beef recipes it may specify which package to use. The following info will help you decide:
  • 25-30% contains the fattiest and is great for dishes that stand alone like burgers or Meatballs. The higher fat content yields a juicy and flavorful dish. This is also the least expensive.
  • 15-20% is great for soups and casseroles, but can also be used for burgers and meatballs. You may be instructed to drain any excess oil after browning the meat.
  • Less than 10% is the leanest. It isn’t always great for stand-alone recipes because it dries out quickly and can lack taste, but works well to add to larger dishes like casseroles and soups.

How to Brown Ground Beef?

1. Let the ground beef sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil to a cast-iron skillet, or other heavy-bottomed pan and heat it up over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef.
3. Use a spatula to break the meat up into pieces and let it cook for about 5 minutes before flipping it. Use the spatula to continue to break the meat into pieces. Cook until no longer pink. Drain excess oil. 

Best Ground Beef Tips?

• Don’t overcrowd the pan or the beef will steam instead of getting a crispy brown.
• Seasonings. Add aromatics, like garlic, along with the oil. Then add the meat.
• Freeze. Cook up a few batches and freeze the browned beef in an airtight container for later can help get dinner on the table on busy days.

Add flavor?

• Many different seasonings and fresh herbs go well with ground beef. Onion and bell peppers are a class addition. It depends on what flavor profile you want to create.
  • Italian beef may include parsley, garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  • Beef tacos would include chili powder, garlic, onion, red pepper flakes, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  • Hamburgers may have a simple Lawry’s seasoning salt or a bit of Worcestershire Sauce.