Description
A simple, flavorful recipe for cooking lean ground beef on the stovetop. This method ensures perfectly browned, tender beef that’s lower in fat but still rich in taste, enhanced with aromatics like onion, garlic, and optional spices. Perfect as a protein base for tacos, pastas, rice bowls, salads, and more.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika or chili powder (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm for about 30 seconds to prepare for sautéing.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Add the ground beef: Push the onion and garlic mixture to one side of the pan. Add the ground beef into the other side and begin breaking it up with a wooden spoon or meat chopper.
- Season the beef: Stir the beef together with the onion and garlic, then season evenly with salt, black pepper, and optional paprika or chili powder for added smoky or spicy flavor.
- Cook thoroughly: Continue cooking for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess liquid if necessary to avoid sogginess.
- Adjust seasoning and finish: Taste the cooked beef and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the skillet from heat once done.
- Serve or store: Use the lean ground beef immediately in your favorite dishes such as tacos, pasta, rice bowls, or salads. Alternatively, allow it to cool and store it for later use.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef with at least 90% lean content to keep the fat content low.
- Draining excess fat after cooking helps reduce calories and keeps the dish healthier.
- Feel free to add other seasonings such as cumin or oregano to match your flavor preferences.
- Cooked ground beef can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.
- If you prefer a spicier version, increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
