Ground Beef in Fresh Tomato Sauce With Potatoes: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Ground Beef in Fresh Tomato Sauce With Potatoes is a delightful comfort dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining table. The combination of juicy ground beef, vibrant tomatoes, and tender potatoes creates a hearty meal that is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. This dish is perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, as it appeals to adults and children alike. If you’re looking for a dish that combines flavors and textures beautifully, you’ve found it!
Imagine savoring a bite of succulent ground beef mixed with fresh tomatoes, all rounded off with the earthy flavor of potatoes. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible, drawing everyone in with anticipation. Moreover, this dish is versatile; it can be served on its own or paired with crusty bread, rice, or a simple salad. Over the years, my family has come to love this recipe, and I am thrilled to share it with you. Let’s dive deeper into why you’ll love this recipe as much as I do!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ground Beef in Fresh Tomato Sauce With Potatoes is a favorite for many reasons. Here are some compelling factors that make this dish essential for your cooking repertoire:
1. Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
2. Flavor-Packed: The fresh tomatoes, herbs, and spices elevate ground beef into a symphony of mouth-watering flavors.
3. Comfort Food: A warm bowl of this dish brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort that everyone craves.
4. Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or spices, tailoring the recipe to your taste.
5. Nutritious: Packed with protein and vitamins from potatoes and tomatoes, this recipe strikes a balance between flavor and nutrition.
6. Great for Meal Prep: It stores well, making it a perfect candidate for batch cooking or leftovers.
With these highlights, it’s easy to see why Ground Beef in Fresh Tomato Sauce With Potatoes is not just a meal but an experience that captivates the senses.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Before you get started, here’s a quick overview of the time required for preparing and cooking this dish:
– Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 50-55 minutes
This timeline should help you organize your cooking schedule, allowing for a smooth and enjoyable experience in the kitchen.

Ingredients

– 1 pound ground beef
– 4 medium-sized fresh tomatoes, diced
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth (or water)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Ground Beef in Fresh Tomato Sauce With Potatoes is a breeze with the following steps:
1. Prepare Ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, and dice the tomatoes and potatoes.
2. Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Aromatics: Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until onions become translucent, around 3-4 minutes.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes: Add diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down slightly.
5. Season: Sprinkle in dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let the flavors meld for a couple more minutes.
6. Add Potatoes: Carefully mix in the cubed potatoes. Pour in the beef broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
7. Simmer: Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
9. Garnish: Once cooked, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and flavor.
10. Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl or plate and serve hot.
These simple steps ensure that you create a delightful dish that your family will adore!

How to Serve

When serving Ground Beef in Fresh Tomato Sauce With Potatoes, presentation and complementing sides can enhance the experience. Here are some ideas:
1. Serving Dish: Consider using a bright or elegant serving bowl to showcase the rustic nature of the dish.
2. Sides: Pair with crusty bread or a light salad to balance the richness of the beef and tomatoes.
3. Garnishes: Additional fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or basil, make for a vibrant garnish on top.
4. Containers: If serving for a gathering, use warm casseroles or individual ramekins for a homely touch.
5. Beverage Pairings: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad, a glass of red wine, or even a refreshing iced tea.
By paying attention to these serving tips, you will surely create a memorable dining experience, impressing everyone gathered around the table. Enjoy crafting this beautiful meal that captures the essence of comfort food at its finest!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for the freshest tomatoes and provide a great texture with the potatoes.
– Beef Quality Matters: Choose ground beef that’s at least 80% lean to ensure a good balance of flavor and richness.
– Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the dish and complement the tomatoes.
– Cooking Method: Consider using a Dutch oven for even heating and flavor development.
– Taste as You Go: Make adjustments to seasonings throughout the cooking process for perfect flavor.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to mix things up! Here are a few variations to try:
1. Add Beans: Include kidney beans or black beans for added protein and texture.
2. Make It Spicy: For a kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce.
3. Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute for a plant-based take on this dish.
4. Different Veggies: Incorporate zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor.
5. Herb-Infused Oil: Use herb-infused olive oil to sauté the meat for an extra layer of flavor.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
– Freezing: This dish freezes well; divide it into individual portions and store them in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Label them for easy identification.
– Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or heat directly from frozen in a saucepan until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water can help revive the sauce’s consistency.

Special Equipment

To prepare Ground Beef in Fresh Tomato Sauce With Potatoes effectively, consider having these essential tools on hand:
– Large skillet or Dutch oven
– Wooden spoon or spatula
– Cutting board and knife
– Measuring spoons and cups
– Ladle or serving spoon for dish presentation

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute canned tomatoes for fresh. Opt for quality diced or crushed tomatoes for the best result.
What can I serve with this dish?
This meal pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad to balance the richness.
How can I adjust the cooking time for larger portions?
If you are making a larger batch, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Always check that the potatoes are fork-tender before serving.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It makes a great meal prep option, as you can easily portion it out for quick lunches throughout the week.
Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables during the cooking process to enhance the nutrition and flavor profile.

Conclusion

Ground Beef in Fresh Tomato Sauce With Potatoes is a quintessential comfort food that satisfies and warms the heart. This dish combines the savory goodness of ground beef, delicious freshness of tomatoes, and the hearty starchiness of potatoes. Whether served on its own or alongside crusty bread, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your home. Take the time to make it your own with various ingredients and cooking methods, and enjoy the delightful experience around the table with family and friends.