ground beef and mushroom recipe
The Best ground beef and mushroom recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions because itās quick to prep and cook, yet it feels like a meal youād serve at a dinner party. Itās also a great way to use up extra ground beef or mushrooms from the pantry. Plus, itās packed with protein and fiber, so itās a healthier alternative to fast food or takeout. My family loves it because itās easy to customizeāadd cheese if you like, or swap in different veggies like bell peppers or onions. Itās simple enough for kids to help with, and it never disappoints.
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Beef Skillet
A rich, comforting dish featuring tender ground beef braised with mushrooms, garlic, and a velvety tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
š„Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
šØāš³Directions
-
1
Pat the ground beef dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes per batch. -
2
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another 1 minute until fragrant. -
3
Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in the tomato sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. -
4
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
š§Equipment
- Skillet (10-inch nonstick)
- Wooden spoon
- Fine-mesh strainer
šNutrition Facts (per serving)
šNotes
Watch Video Of How Creamy Garlic Mushroom Beef Skillet Works
ā Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Mushroom Beef Skillet
How do I adjust the seasoning if I donāt have salt or black pepper?
If youāre missing salt, boost flavor with a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a splash of soy sauce. For black pepper, try a dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of cayenne for warmth. If youāre using dried mushrooms, add a splash of vegetable broth to enhance their umami depth.
Can I use frozen ground beef instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen ground beef works perfectly. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, then drain any excess fat before cooking. Frozen beef may release slightly more fat when browning, so adjust the pan to a slightly lower heat to prevent burning.
What if my mushrooms arenāt fresh, and theyāre shriveled or slimy?
Shriveled mushrooms can still workājust chop them finely and sautĆ© them quickly to release moisture. If theyāre slimy, discard any bruised or slimy pieces and use only the freshest portions. A splash of water or broth in the pan can also help revive them.
How do I make sure the beef isnāt overcooked?
For medium-rare ground beef, aim for an internal temperature of 145Ā°F (63Ā°C). Use a meat thermometer to checkāinsert it into the thickest part of the patties. If you donāt have one, cook until the edges are browned and the center looks slightly underdone, then rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Can I add other vegetables or proteins to the mix?
Absolutely! Stir in diced bell peppers, onions, or even cooked spinach for extra texture. For extra protein, add cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or crumbled feta. Just keep the cooking time short to avoid overcooking the beef.
