Hearty Beef Dinner for Cozy Evenings at Home
This hearty beef dinner is inspired by Italian home cooking and designed for cozy evenings at home. Simple ingredients and careful cooking create a comforting and satisfying meal.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Medium Pot
Ingredients
Beef
- 1 lb ground beef lean preferred
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare your serving base such as mashed potatoes or polenta according to your preferred method. Keep it warm over very low heat so it is ready when the beef is finished.
- Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat for about 30 seconds so the onion cooks evenly without burning.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step builds the flavor base of the dish.
- Add the minced garlic and stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not allow the garlic to brown.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart gently with a spoon and spread it evenly across the pan so it browns properly.
- Cook the beef for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully browned and no pink remains. Allow some browning for deeper flavor.
- Season the beef with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly so the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the meat.
- Lower the heat slightly and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and blend together.
- Taste the beef and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat once the flavor is balanced and rich.
- Serve the beef warm over mashed potatoes or polenta. Garnish with parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
This recipe is ideal for make-ahead meals and cozy evenings at home. Leftovers store well and reheat gently.