Ground beef is super versatile and a staple in many kitchens. You can use it for quick meals like burgers, tacos, pasta sauces, meatloaf, and casseroles. Here’s a basic guide:
Types of Ground Beef
- Regular (70–75% lean): More fat, more flavor, juicier, good for burgers or meatballs.
- Lean (80–85% lean): Less fat, still flavorful, good for tacos, chili, or pasta sauces.
- Extra lean (90–95% lean): Very little fat, best for stir-fries or dishes where you add moisture.
Basic Cooking Tips
- Browning:
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Cook until fully browned, about 6–8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat if desired.
- Seasoning Ideas:
- Simple: salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder.
- Mexican-style: chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano.
- Italian-style: garlic, onion, basil, oregano, tomato paste.
- Storage:
- Raw: Refrigerate for 1–2 days, freeze for up to 3–4 months.
- Cooked: Refrigerate for 3–4 days, freeze for 2–3 months.
If you want, I can give a super quick 15-minute ground beef recipe that’s easy, tasty, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Do you want me to do that?
