ground beef and lentils recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
ground beef and lentils recipe
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The Best ground beef and lentils recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – a hearty and delicious ground beef and lentils dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and I’ve made it countless times for my kids, husband, and even for big family gatherings. The combination of tender ground beef, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices makes for a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize – you can add your favorite vegetables, herbs, or spices to make it your own. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is always a hit with them. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, this ground beef and lentils recipe is sure to please.

The key to making this recipe shine is in the technique – don’t overcook the lentils or the beef, and make sure to season with plenty of salt and pepper. With these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to creating a dish that’s both flavorful and filling. I’ve found that this recipe works beautifully for big gatherings, as it’s easy to scale up or down depending on the number of people.

Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover vegetables or herbs from your garden. As a busy mom, I appreciate how quickly this recipe comes together – just 30 minutes from start to finish! And the leftovers are always welcome in our household – my husband loves reheating it for lunch or dinner the next day.

In fact, we often joke that this recipe is like a warm hug in a bowl – it never fails to put a smile on our faces.

Hearty Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet

Hearty Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet

4.7 from 1417 votes

This one-pan ground beef and lentil skillet is a quick, nutritious, and budget-friendly meal. It combines savory beef with earthy lentils in a rich tomato sauce, making a complete and satisfying dinner.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup brown lentils, rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
3 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, for 5 to 7 minutes until it is browned and no longer pink.
3Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
4Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5Add the rinsed lentils, undrained diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
6Stir everything together to combine.
7Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid.
8Simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
9Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes.
10Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
11Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and use vegetable broth. You can also add diced carrots or celery with the onion for extra vegetables.

Watch Video Of How Hearty Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet Works

This ground beef and lentils recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just need a comforting meal for yourself. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can customize it with your favorite vegetables, herbs, or spices.

When storing leftovers, be sure to keep them refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) within 2 hours of cooking. You can also freeze cooked leftovers for up to 3 months – just thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Ground Beef and Lentil Skillet

Q: What type of lentils should I use?

For this recipe, I recommend using green or brown lentils – they hold their shape well after cooking and have a slightly firmer texture than red lentils.

Q: Can I substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for ground beef – just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How do I prevent the lentils from becoming mushy?

To prevent the lentils from becoming mushy, make sure to cook them until they’re just tender but still retain some texture.

Q: Can I add other spices or herbs to give the dish more flavor?

Of course! Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to give the dish more flavor.

Q: How do I store leftovers safely?

To store leftovers safely, make sure to cool them down quickly by transferring them to an ice bath or by using an ice pack.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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