lentils and ground beef recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
lentils and ground beef recipe
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The Best lentils and ground beef recipe

I’m so excited to share this lentils and ground beef recipe with you all. I’ve been making this dish for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The combination of tender lentils and flavorful ground beef is just perfect.

Plus, it’s so easy to make, even on a busy weeknight. I like to serve it over rice or with some crusty bread on the side. The key to this recipe is using a mix of spices to give it that authentic flavor.

I’ve also found that using red wine instead of water adds a richness to the dish that’s just amazing. My kids love helping me stir the pot and adding their own favorite spices. It’s a great way to get them involved in cooking and teach them about different flavors and textures.

And the best part? It’s super healthy too! Lentils are packed with protein and fiber, making it a great option for a quick and easy dinner.

So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Lentils and Ground Beef Skillet

Lentils and Ground Beef Skillet

4.6 from 1635 votes

This hearty dish combines lentils and ground beef with vegetables and aromatic spices for a satisfying meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup green lentils
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks.
4Drain excess fat and set the skillet aside.
5In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
6Cook over medium heat until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
7Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
8Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf.
9Bring to a boil.
10Reduce heat to low and cover the skillet.
11Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
12Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
13Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste.
14If the mixture is too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
15Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
16Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as crusty bread or a green salad.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: Ensure lentils are rinsed before cooking to remove any debris. You can also add spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Lentils and Ground Beef Skillet Works

This lentils and ground beef recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a quick weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make ahead of time and reheats beautifully.

You can also serve it over rice, with some crusty bread on the side, or even as a hearty stew. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber from the lentils, making it a great option for health-conscious eaters.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lentils and Ground Beef Skillet

Q: What type of lentils should I use for this recipe?

In general, you can use any type of lentil you like, but brown or green lentils work best in this recipe because they hold their shape well after cooking.

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for beef in this recipe.

Q: How do I store leftover lentils and ground beef?

Store leftover lentils and ground beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the lentils and ground beef mixture up to a day in advance, but it’s best to cook the final dish just before serving.

Q: What if I don’t have red wine on hand?

You can substitute the red wine with beef broth or water if you don’t have wine on hand.

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