Hearty Beef Stew
Hearty Beef Stew is a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for fall, combining tender chunks of beef with hearty vegetables and aromatics in a rich broth. With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a cooking time of around 2 to 3 hours, this dish is moderately easy to prepare, making it suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the beef cubes in batches, browning all sides and removing from pot when done.
- In the same pot, add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, and sauté until soft.
- Return the beef to the pot and stir in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth, add potatoes and bay leaves, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 to 3 hours until beef is tender.
- Stir in frozen peas 5 minutes before serving, if desired.
For ingredient substitutions, you can use different cuts of beef such as brisket or round eye, or incorporate chicken for a lighter dish.
Vegetable options can be customized with mushrooms, green beans, or parsnips according to your preference.
Variations on this stew can include adding red wine for depth of flavor, or even experimenting with spices like paprika for a hint of smokiness. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Cooking tips include browning the beef in batches to guarantee even cooking and preventing the meat from steaming. Additionally, allowing the stew to sit for a few hours (or overnight) after cooking can enhance the flavors, making it even more delicious the next day.
To pair with Hearty Beef Stew, consider serving it with a robust red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or a smooth Merlot.
Alternatively, a dark beer like a stout or a hearty ale can complement the rich flavors beautifully. A simple side of crusty bread or a green salad would also balance out the meal.
- The Original Pro Chopper - Our superstar veggie slicer has been creating waves on TikTok! Simple to use,...
- Easy Meal Prep with Rust-Resistant Blades - Our vegetable chopper is perfect for anyone who wants to eat...
- 5-Star Design - The soft-grip TPU handle ensures controlled chopping, while the non-skid rubber base...
Slow Cooker Beef Pot Roast
Slow Cooker Beef Pot Roast is a classic and comforting dish that’s perfect for fall, featuring succulent beef slow-cooked to perfection with aromatic vegetables and herbs. With a prep time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 8 hours on low, this dish offers a hassle-free approach, making it easy for even the busiest home cooks.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs beef chuck roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 potatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2 bay leaves
Cooking Steps:
- Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the roast on all sides, then transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add the quartered onion, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and minced garlic around the roast in the slow cooker.
- Pour beef broth over the contents of the slow cooker and add rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
- Before serving, remove the bay leaves and herbs, and adjust seasoning if necessary.
For ingredient substitutions, you can use brisket or round roast instead of chuck roast. Additionally, baby potatoes can replace diced potatoes, and you can add any seasonal vegetables such as parsnips or turnips for a twist.
Variations on the classic pot roast can include adding a splash of red wine to the broth for extra flavor or incorporating Worcestershire sauce for depth. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as sage or parsley, to create unique flavor profiles.
Cooking tips include searing the beef beforehand to lock in flavor and ensuring the lid of the slow cooker stays closed during cooking for the best results. For a thicker gravy, consider stirring in a cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
To pair with Slow Cooker Beef Pot Roast, a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec can enhance the flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a dark beer such as porter or a revitalizing soda like root beer can provide a nice contrast to the rich meal.
A classic side of mashed potatoes or steamed green beans would complete the dining experience.
- Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged cheese! Only turn the handle for several times and get...
- Premium Material : All parts of the rotary cheese grater are made of food grade ABS material, no BPA. The...
- Three Option Grater : The parmesan cheese grater finishes food preparation with slicing, shredding and...
Classic Beef Stroganoff
Classic Beef Stroganoff is a rich and creamy dish, perfect for cozy fall evenings. This savory meal combines tender beef strips with a luscious mushroom and sour cream sauce, served over egg noodles or rice.
With a prep time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of about 30 minutes, this recipe is moderately easy, making it ideal for home cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- 8 ounces egg noodles or rice
Cooking Steps:
- Cook the egg noodles or rice according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and season with salt and pepper, cooking until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and Dijon mustard, cooking for an additional minute.
- Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook for another 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream until well combined. Return the cooked beef to the skillet, stirring gently until heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the Beef Stroganoff over the egg noodles or rice, and garnish with fresh parsley.
For ingredient substitutions, you can use flank steak or ground beef instead of sirloin. For a lighter version, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream, and you can opt for whole wheat noodles or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
Variations of classic Beef Stroganoff might include the addition of vegetables such as bell peppers or peas for extra color and texture. You can also experiment by adding a splash of brandy or white wine for depth of flavor or using different types of mushrooms, like shiitake or portobello, to enhance the earthy notes.
When cooking Beef Stroganoff, make sure that you slice the beef thinly against the grain for optimum tenderness. Additionally, take care not to overcook the beef, as it can become tough; just a quick sauté is enough. Stirring in the sour cream off the heat helps prevent curdling.
To complement your Beef Stroganoff, consider serving it with a chilled glass of Chardonnay or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir, which can balance the creaminess of the dish. For an invigorating non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon works well to cleanse the palate.
- 💰 REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY: Chef Preserve keeps FOOD FRESH 5 TIMES LONGER than non-vacuum storage...
- ✅ POWERFUL, QUICK & EASY TO USE: Simply press the button to start. The device vacuum seals a bag in 5...
- ♻️ REUSABLE & RESEALABLE BAGS: Chef Preserve comes with dishwasher, freezer, refrigerator, and...
Spicy Beef Chili
Spicy Beef Chili is a hearty and robust dish that brings warmth and comfort, making it perfect for chilly fall days. Packed with tender beef, beans, and a medley of spices, this dish has a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a cooking time of approximately 1 hour. It is moderately easy to prepare, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust more or less for spice level)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups beef broth
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic, sautéing until softened.
- Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon and cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper, cooking for another minute to toast the spices.
- Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your liking.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
For ingredient substitutions, you can use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef for a lighter option. Additionally, canned beans can be replaced with dried beans; just be sure to soak and cook them beforehand.
For those looking for a vegetarian dish, substitute the beef with lentils or additional beans.
Variations of Spicy Beef Chili can include adding corn for sweetness or fresh jalapeños for additional heat. You could also throw in diced zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition or some dark chocolate for a richer flavor profile.
When cooking chili, be sure to balance the spices according to your personal taste and try to allow time for the flavors to meld by letting it simmer longer if you can.
Additionally, lid partially covering the pot can help to maintain moisture without losing too much liquid.
Pair Spicy Beef Chili with a cold beer, such as a lager or a pale ale, which will complement the spices nicely. Alternatively, a glass of red wine, like a Zinfandel, can enhance the hearty flavors, while a non-alcoholic option could be an invigorating iced tea or lemonade.
- Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
- Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving...
- Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks
Braised Short Ribs
Braised Short Ribs are a luxurious and satisfying dish that embodies the essence of fall with their rich, deep flavors. This comforting recipe features tender beef short ribs slowly cooked in a savory broth, resulting in meat that falls off the bone. With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a cooking time of approximately 2 to 3 hours, this dish is moderately challenging, perfect for cooks looking to elevate their culinary skills.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds beef short ribs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. In a heavy Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the short ribs on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for an additional minute before adding the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
- Add the beef broth, thyme, bay leaves, and the seared short ribs back into the pot. Verify that the ribs are mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the oven. Braise the short ribs for 2 to 3 hours, until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
For ingredient substitutions, you can replace beef short ribs with chuck roast or brisket if you can’t find them. Instead of red wine, you could use additional beef broth or a non-alcoholic grape juice for a similar depth of flavor.
Variations of Braised Short Ribs can include adding mushrooms or potatoes during cooking for added heartiness. You can also swap the red wine for a beer or incorporate spices such as smoked paprika for a unique twist.
Cooking tips include making sure to sear the meat well for maximum flavor before braising and allowing the dish to rest after cooking, which helps the flavors meld. If you prefer, you can make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate; the flavors will enhance as it cools.
To pair drinks with your Braised Short Ribs, consider serving a full-bodied red wine such as a Malbec or Merlot, which complements the richness of the dish. Alternatively, a dark beer or a nice stout can also be a satisfying match.
- 100% Leak-proof: Guaranteed no-spill seal and secure latches
- Crystal-clear Tritan Built: Stain-resistant and odor-resistant material for a clear view of contents
- Lightweight & Sturdy: Easy to carry, yet durable for everyday use
Beef and Butternut Squash Casserole
Beef and Butternut Squash Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that beautifully showcases the flavors of fall. This baked casserole combines savory ground beef with sweet butternut squash and a blend of hearty vegetables, topped with a cheesy crust. The dish has a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a cooking time of approximately 45 minutes, making it a moderately easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon; cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
- Stir in diced butternut squash, carrots, green beans, and beef broth. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
For ingredient substitutions, you can replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Instead of butternut squash, sweet potatoes or pumpkin can be used.
Variations can include adding different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the mix or incorporating cooked rice or quinoa for added texture and substance. For a spice kick, you can also add some chili powder or cayenne pepper.
Cooking tips include ensuring the butternut squash is cut into uniform pieces to promote even cooking. Also, if you prefer a crispier topping, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
To pair drinks with this dish, consider a light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir, or a crisp apple cider, which complements the sweetness of the butternut squash beautifully.
- 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: Supports 5 units...
- 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: Accurately weighs up to 11 lb/5 kg with 1 g...
- 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 & 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: The small and sleek scale is a perfect fit for...
Savory Shepherd’s Pie
Savory Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting, classic dish that combines a flavorful meat filling with a creamy, buttery mashed potato topping. This recipe comes together quickly, with a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a cooking time of approximately 30 minutes, making it an easy and satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until they soften.
- Add ground beef or lamb and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in diced carrots, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and frozen peas. Cook until the mixture is thickened, about 5-10 minutes.
- Transfer the meat mixture into a baking dish, smoothing it out evenly.
- Spread the mashed potatoes over the meat filling, creating an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.
For ingredient substitutions, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or lamb for a lighter option. If you have leftover mashed potatoes, they can be used in place of freshly made ones. Additionally, you can substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Variations can include adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor, or including other vegetables like corn or mushrooms in the meat filling. For a twist, you can incorporate cheese into the mashed potatoes or add a layer of shredded cheese on top before baking.
Cooking tips include ensuring that the potatoes are well-seasoned to balance the savory meat filling. You can also create texture by using a fork to create peaks in the mashed potatoes on top, which will brown nicely during baking.
To pair drinks with Shepherd’s Pie, consider a robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, which complements the rich flavors of the meat. Alternatively, a cold, crisp lager or a smooth apple cider also pairs well with this hearty dish.
- Instant Read Food Thermometer | Our instant read thermometer features a temperature probe and advanced,...
- Multi-Use | From bbq thermometer to baking thermometer, our digital food thermometer for cooking is...
- Easy-Read Digital Thermometer For Cooking | Large instant thermometer dial with bright blue backlight...
Teriyaki Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas)
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Cooking Steps:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced beef and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- Return the beef to the skillet and pour in the teriyaki sauce. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
For ingredient substitutions, you can use chicken, tofu, or shrimp instead of beef for different protein options.
If you have a different kind of sauce on hand, such as soy sauce or hoisin sauce, feel free to use that instead of teriyaki.
You can also swap out the mixed vegetables for whatever you have available, like zucchini or carrots.
Variations can include adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce or using fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an added burst of flavor.
You might also experiment with different types of teriyaki, such as spicy or low-sodium.
Cooking tips include slicing the beef against the grain to guarantee tenderness and cooking the vegetables just until they are bright and crisp, to retain their nutrients and texture.
Prepping all ingredients beforehand can help make the process smoother since stir-frying happens quickly.
To pair drinks with your Teriyaki Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry, consider a chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which complements the savory flavors.
Alternatively, a light Asian lager or a revitalizing ginger ale can balance the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
- Versatile 54-Piece Collection: Elevate your kitchen with the Home Hero 54-Piece Kitchen Utensil Set, a...
- Durable and Long-Lasting: Crafted from premium stainless steel, these kitchen utensils are designed to...
- Perfect Holiday Gift: Delight your loved ones with this kitchen utensils gift set this festive season....
Beef Bourguignon
Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish that features tender chunks of beef slow-cooked in red wine, alongside aromatic vegetables and herbs. It requires about 3 hours of preparation and cooking time, making it a bit of a commitment but well worth the effort due to its rich flavors and heartwarming qualities.
This dish is considered moderately difficult due to the multi-step cooking process, but the end result is truly rewarding.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces mushrooms, quartered
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Add the beef to the pot, browning it on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, and carrots, cooking until softened.
- Stir in the flour (if using), then add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper.
- Return the beef and bacon to the pot, bringing it to a simmer, then cover and place it in the oven for about 2.5 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes, sauté the mushrooms in olive oil and add them to the pot for the final half hour of cooking.
- Once finished, remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
For ingredient substitutions, you can substitute the beef chuck with stewing beef or short ribs for a different texture. If red wine isn’t available, you can use a dry white wine or even beef broth as an alternative, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.
Variations include adding pearl onions for extra sweetness or even diced potatoes for a heartier stew. You could also add different herbs such as rosemary or marjoram to give a twist to the flavor, or use a different type of wine to experiment with unique tastes.
Cooking tips involve browning the meat well to develop flavor, using a good quality wine for the best taste, and being patient—allowing it to cook slowly will make the beef extremely tender. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it for longer or add a cornstarch slurry towards the end.
To pair drinks with Beef Bourguignon, a glass of hearty red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Syrah, complements the robust flavors beautifully. Alternatively, serving it with a dark beer like porter or a rich stout can create a delightful flavor experience that enhances the meal.
- 24-ounce insulated stainless-steel water bottle with a FreeSip spout and push-button lid with lock
- Patented FreeSip spout designed for either sipping upright through the built-in straw or tilting back to...
- Protective push-to-open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock
Stuffed Bell Peppers With Ground Beef
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef is a delightful and colorful dish that combines juicy bell peppers with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices. This meal is not only visually appealing but also satisfying and nutritious. Preparation and cooking time together take about 1 hour, and the difficulty level is easy, making it a great option for both beginner and experienced cooks.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off of the bell peppers and remove the seeds; set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, browning it until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook for a few more minutes.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture and place them upright in a baking dish.
- Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
For ingredient substitutions, you can use ground turkey or chicken in place of ground beef for a lighter option. If you prefer, brown rice or quinoa can be swapped for white rice to add more nutrition. In place of canned tomatoes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes or tomato sauce.
Variations could include adding black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different seasonings like taco seasoning for a Mexican twist or Mediterranean herbs like oregano and basil for a different flavor profile.
Cooking tips include browning the beef well for maximum flavor and ensuring that the peppers are tender by not overcooking them in the oven. You can also pre-cook the rice to speed up the process if you’re short on time.
When it comes to drinks to pair with Stuffed Bell Peppers, a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a invigorating iced tea or a sparkling lemon soda works wonderfully to balance the savory filling.
Maple Glazed Beef Meatballs
Maple Glazed Beef Meatballs are a delightful and savory dish that combines the rich flavors of beef with the sweet notes of maple syrup. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or main course and is suitable for gatherings or family dinners. Preparation and cooking time together take about 40 minutes, and the difficulty level is easy, making it a great choice for cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard.
- Drizzle half of the maple glaze over the meatballs and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the meatballs, brush them with the remaining glaze, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until cooked through and caramelized.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
For ingredient substitutions, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a leaner option.
Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to accommodate gluten sensitivities, and you may swap out Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Variations could include adding crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick, or incorporating finely chopped herbs like basil or cilantro for added vibrancy.
For a different flavor profile, you could use honey instead of maple syrup for a sweeter glaze.
Cooking tips include ensuring that meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking and keeping an eye on them in the oven to prevent burning, especially during the final glaze.
You can also bake them until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safety.
To pair with Maple Glazed Beef Meatballs, a fruity red wine like Pinot Noir works harmoniously with the sweet and savory flavors.
For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice provides a revitalizing contrast.
