When it comes to weeknight dinners, I always want something cozy and satisfying, and this dish ticks all the boxes! This is one of my husband’s favorite meals for a weeknight! It’s hearty, full of flavor, and comes together in no time, making it a go-to in our home. I love how the aromas of garlic and spices fill the kitchen, making it feel like a warm hug after a long day. Plus, it’s so easy to customize with whatever we have on hand. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your rotation too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: You can whip this up in just 10 minutes and have it on the table in under 40!
- One-pot wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
- Hearty and filling: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s sure to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.
- Customizable: Adjust spices, add extra veggies, or switch up the proteins to keep things exciting.
- Family-friendly: It’s a dish everyone loves, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious meal! Gather these simple ingredients, and you’re on your way to a fabulous dinner that my husband just can’t resist:
- 1 lb ground beef (I like to use lean beef for a healthier option)
- 1 onion, chopped (a medium-sized onion adds the perfect flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic makes a world of difference!)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz, juice included for extra flavor)
- 1 can kidney beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed for a cleaner taste)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned; sweet corn adds a nice touch)
- 2 cups beef broth (homemade or store-bought, whatever you have on hand)
- 2 tsp chili powder (adjust more or less depending on your spice preference)
- 1 tsp cumin (it adds a warm, earthy flavor that ties everything together)
- Salt to taste (don’t be shy, taste as you go!)
How to Prepare This is one of my husband’s favorite meals for a weeknight!
Getting this meal on the table is a breeze! Here’s how I do it, step by step, so you won’t miss a beat:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, grab a large pot and heat it over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm, add the 1 lb of ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned all over, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up with a spoon as it cooks!
- Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook these together until the onion is soft and translucent, usually around 3-4 minutes. The aroma will be heavenly!
- Now, stir in the can of diced tomatoes (juice included), kidney beans, corn, and the 2 cups of beef broth. Give it a good mix to combine everything.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, and salt. Make sure to taste as you go to find that perfect balance!
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully!
- Finally, serve it hot and enjoy! You can top it with cheese or a dollop of sour cream if you like a little extra indulgence.
Tips for Success
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure you nail this dish every time! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to match your family’s taste—add more chili powder if you love heat! For a heartier version, toss in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini during the onion and garlic stage. If you have leftovers, you can easily turn this into a delicious burrito filling or serve it over rice for a different twist. And remember, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving can really elevate the flavors!
Variations
One of the best things about this dish is how easily it adapts to what you have on hand! For a different protein, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. If you’re looking to sneak in more veggies, toss in some chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even sweet potatoes for added texture and flavor. Feeling adventurous? Experiment with spices like smoked paprika for a smoky twist or add a splash of hot sauce for extra heat. You can also make it vegetarian by swapping the beef for lentils or mushrooms—trust me, it’s just as delicious!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers (which I hope you do because it’s so good!), let the dish cool completely before storing it. Transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge, where it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in a covered dish for a quick meal!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just estimates. Each serving of this hearty dish contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
It’s a beautifully balanced meal that’s low in fat and high in protein, making it perfect for an energizing dinner!
FAQ Section
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner dish. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll still get that hearty flavor!
What can I serve this with?
This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can serve it with cornbread, over rice, or with tortilla chips for a fun twist. It’s super versatile!
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for lentils or black beans, and it’ll still be delicious! Just adjust the cooking time slightly to suit the ingredients.
How do I store leftovers?
Let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months for a quick meal later!
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach when you add the onions and garlic to pack in extra nutrients!
This is one of my husband’s favorite meals for a weeknight!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This is one of my husband’s favorite meals for a weeknight.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
- 1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained
- 1 cup corn
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, corn, and beef broth.
- Add chili powder, cumin, and salt. Mix well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust spices to your taste.
- Top with cheese or sour cream if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: husband's favorite, weeknight meal, easy dinner