Delicious Beef Tomato Dish: Simple Recipe
Growing up, nothing brought our family together like a steaming pot of beef tomato recipe. It filled our kitchen with warmth and an irresistible aroma. This easy beef tomato recipe has been a treasured comfort food. It transforms simple ingredients into a meal packed with memories and flavor.
Imagine creating a hearty dinner that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare. It serves 4-6 people and costs around $10. This beef tomato recipe promises exactly that – a budget-friendly, delicious meal that will become your family’s new favorite.
Whether you’re a busy parent seeking quick dinner solutions or a home cook craving classic comfort food, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite. Using lean grass-fed ground beef and ripe beefsteak tomatoes, you’ll craft a dish that’s both nutritious and delectable.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Quick and budget-friendly meal preparation
- Serves 4-6 people comfortably
- Uses lean grass-fed ground beef
- Preparation time under 30 minutes
- Versatile recipe adaptable to different proteins
- Nutritious and flavorful comfort food
Introduction to Classic Beef and Tomato Comfort Food
The delicious beef tomato recipe has deep roots in American culinary tradition. It’s more than just a meal. It’s a journey through family kitchens and generations of comfort cooking.
Origins of American Goulash-Style Dishes
American goulash came from European cooking traditions. Immigrants brought their recipes, making them uniquely American. It quickly became a favorite in home cooking across the United States.
- Originated from European immigrant recipes
- Adapted to American taste preferences
- Simple, affordable ingredients
- Easy to prepare for large families
Why This Recipe Became a Family Favorite
This homemade beef tomato recipe is loved for its simplicity and warm flavors. Families loved how quick it was to make and how filling it was for hungry households.
“A meal that brings families together around the dinner table” – Home Cooking Magazine
| Recipe Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 10 people |
| Calories per Serving | 388 kcal |
| Average User Rating | 4.96/5 |
The dish’s popularity comes from its versatility and crowd-pleasing nature. It’s perfect for weeknights or family gatherings. It warms hearts and creates lasting memories.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Beef Tomato Recipe
To make a classic beef tomato recipe, you need the right ingredients. These ingredients make the dish rich and flavorful. They turn a simple meal into a memorable one.
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 medium onions, diced
- 2 pounds fresh tomatoes (or 28-ounce can)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon)
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
The secret to a great classic beef tomato recipe is in the ingredients. Choose lean ground beef for less fat but more flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 pound | Primary protein source |
| Tomatoes | 2 pounds | Base sauce and flavor |
| Onions | 2 medium | Aromatics and depth |
| Ketchup | 3 tablespoons | Sweetness and tang |
“The magic of a classic beef tomato recipe is in selecting fresh, quality ingredients that complement each other.” – Home Cooking Experts
Choosing the right ingredients is key to the dish’s taste and texture. Fresh tomatoes add a bright flavor. Canned tomatoes are convenient without losing quality.
Kitchen Equipment and Preparation Tips
To make a tasty healthy beef tomato recipe, you need the right tools and preparation tips. Choosing the right cookware makes cooking easier and more fun.
Essential Cookware for Perfect Beef Tomato Dishes
Use the right cookware to make your healthy beef tomato recipe stand out. A large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot is key. They help distribute heat evenly and bring out rich flavors.
- Large Dutch oven (6-8 quart capacity)
- Heavy-bottomed stainless steel pot
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Time-Saving Kitchen Tools
Make your healthy beef tomato recipe prep faster with these tools:
- Food processor for quick vegetable chopping
- Digital meat thermometer
- Slow cooker or Instant Pot for alternative cooking methods
- Kitchen scale for precise ingredient measuring
“The right tools transform cooking from a chore to a culinary adventure.” – Professional Chef
Pro tip: Get your ingredients ready before cooking. Chop veggies, measure spices, and cut beef early. This makes cooking your healthy beef tomato recipe smooth and stress-free.
Remember, good cookware is key to a great dish. Invest in durable, heat-responsive pots and pans for the best results.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
To make the perfect savory beef tomato recipe, you need to be precise and pay close attention to every detail. Start by picking the best ingredients and learning the essential cooking techniques.
Here are the key steps to make this tasty dish:
- Prep the Beef: Choose 1 lb of ground beef with an 80/20 ratio. Marinate the beef for 30-60 minutes to make it tender and flavorful.
- Brown the Meat: Heat your skillet and sear the beef for about 1 minute until it’s 80% cooked. Then, remove and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Cook garlic and ginger for about 40 seconds. Cook the ginger for 10 seconds and the garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add Vegetables: Add diced onions and bell peppers. Cook until they become translucent.
The sauce is the secret to a great savory beef tomato recipe. Mix 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and optional ingredients like 1 tsp sugar and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
“Cooking is about passion, so it may look slightly temperamental in a way that it’s too assertive to the naked eye.” – Gordon Ramsay
The last step is to mix the beef with the sauce. Stir for no more than 20 seconds to avoid overcooking. This whole process takes under 30 minutes, making it a quick and fulfilling meal.
Selecting the Best Cuts of Beef
Choosing the right beef is key for a tasty quick beef tomato recipe. The meat you pick can change the flavor, texture, and quality of your dish.
Lean vs. Regular Ground Beef Options
When making a quick beef tomato recipe, pick your beef wisely. Ground beef has different fat levels that affect taste and health.
- Lean ground beef (90/10): Lower fat content, healthier option
- Regular ground beef (80/20): More flavor, juicier texture
- Extra-lean ground beef (95/5): Lowest fat option
“The right beef cut can transform your recipe from good to extraordinary.” – Professional Chef
Alternative Beef Cuts for Variation
Looking to make your quick beef tomato recipe even better? Try different beef cuts for unique tastes and textures.
- Chuck roast: Rich, tender meat perfect for slow cooking
- Brisket: Deep flavor, ideal for hearty dishes
- Top round: Lean cut with robust beef taste
Most recipes call for 2 pounds of beef. This amount gives your tomato dish enough protein and flavor.
Tomato Sauce Base Secrets
Making the perfect tomato sauce is an art. It can turn your beef tomato recipe into something truly special. Inspired by Marcella Hazan’s famous technique, we’ll share secrets to make a rich, flavorful sauce. This sauce will make your dish unforgettable.
The key to a great beef tomato recipe is choosing the right tomatoes. You have two main choices:
- Fresh tomatoes: 4 pounds of ripe, high-quality tomatoes
- Canned tomatoes: Two 28-ounce cans of whole peeled tomatoes
For fresh tomatoes, use a quick blanching method:
- Boil tomatoes for 1-2 minutes
- Immediately transfer to an ice-cold water bath
- Peel and prepare for your sauce
“The secret to a great tomato sauce is patience and quality ingredients.” – Chef’s Wisdom
Your beef tomato recipe’s sauce needs some key ingredients:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 large minced onion
- 2 tbsp minced garlic (about 6 large cloves)
- 1 6-oz can tomato paste
- 1 28-oz can diced tomatoes (unsalted preferred)
Here are some cooking tips for an extraordinary tomato sauce:
- Simmer uncovered for 1½ to 2½ hours
- Cook tomato paste for about 5 minutes until it develops a toasty aroma
- Allow minimum 30 minutes simmering time
Pro tip: Your homemade sauce can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months. This makes meal prep easy for your beef tomato recipe.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancement Techniques
Making an easy beef tomato recipe is more than just mixing stuff. The right seasonings can turn your dish into something amazing. Learning to layer flavors will make your cooking stand out and wow your guests.
Seasoning is an art that can make or break your dish. It’s all about finding the right balance and knowing how spices work with beef and tomatoes.
Essential Spice Combinations
Professional chefs say the right spice blend can really make your dish pop. Here are some top seasoning picks:
- Worcestershire sauce for deep umami flavor
- Seasoned salt for balanced saltiness
- Italian seasoning for authentic herb complexity
- Paprika for subtle warmth and color
Herbs That Complement the Dish
Fresh herbs can brighten your dish and add depth. Try these herb mixes:
- Fresh basil for a classic Mediterranean touch
- Thyme to add earthy undertones
- Oregano for robust flavor
- Parsley for fresh, clean notes
| Herb/Spice | Flavor Profile | Best Used With |
|---|---|---|
| Fennel | Slightly sweet, anise-like | Ground beef |
| Chili Pepper | Varies from mild to intense heat | Tomato base |
| Cumin | Warm, earthy | Beef dishes |
“Proper seasoning is the difference between a good meal and a great one.” – Culinary Wisdom
The secret to an incredible easy beef tomato recipe is knowing how to layer and balance flavors. Start with a little seasoning and adjust to taste, letting each ingredient shine.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Your healthy beef tomato recipe is more than tasty. It’s packed with nutrients that boost your health and wellness.
Let’s look at the nutritional highlights of this dish:
- Protein Powerhouse: With 31g of protein per serving, it supports muscle health and keeps you full
- Balanced Macronutrients: It has a good mix of carbs and healthy fats
- Micronutrient Rich: It’s full of vitamins and minerals you need every day
Here are the key nutrients in the healthy beef tomato recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 418 | N/A |
| Protein | 31g | 62% |
| Dietary Fiber | 7g | 24% |
| Iron | 5mg | 28% |
| Potassium | 1023mg | 22% |
For those watching their health, this recipe is a winner. It uses lean beef and tomatoes for vitamins A and C. Plus, it has extra veggies for more nutrients.
“Eating well doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor—it’s about making smart, nutritious choices that nourish your body.” – Nutrition Expert
By picking lean beef and adding lots of veggies, you make a meal that’s good for muscles, gives lasting energy, and has all the nutrients your body needs.
Storage Tips and Leftover Ideas
Keeping your homemade beef tomato recipe fresh is simple. Storing it right lets you enjoy it for days and cuts down on waste. Let’s look at the best ways to store and use your leftovers.
- Cool the dish completely before storing
- Use airtight containers for maximum freshness
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
Leftover beef tomato can stay in the fridge for 3-4 days. Freezing is great for longer storage. Freeze your meal in portion-sized containers for easy reheating.
“Leftovers are the secret weapon of smart home cooks!” – Anonymous Chef
Reheating Recommendations
Reheating your beef tomato recipe needs care to keep it tasty and moist. Here are some tips:
- Microwave in a covered, damp paper towel-lined dish
- Add a splash of beef broth to prevent drying
- Heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F
Turning your leftovers into something new can make your meal exciting again. You can:
- Stuffed bell peppers
- Hearty soup base
- Pasta sauce
- Casserole topping
Proper storage and reheating keep your homemade beef tomato recipe safe, tasty, and enjoyable for days.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dish Pairings
Your delicious beef tomato recipe deserves the perfect accompaniment to elevate the dining experience. Knowing how to pair and present this classic dish can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary adventure.
Recommended Side Dishes
Complement your beef tomato recipe with these mouthwatering side options:
- Crusty garlic bread for soaking up rich tomato sauce
- Fresh garden salad with light vinaigrette
- Roasted seasonal vegetables
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Buttered egg noodles
Elegant Presentation Techniques
Turn your delicious beef tomato recipe into a showstopper with these presentation tips:
- Use white ceramic plates to highlight the dish’s vibrant colors
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil around the plate’s edge
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top
“The art of cooking is painting and poetry that one can taste.” – Jorge Luis Borges
| Occasion | Serving Suggestion | Portion Size |
|---|---|---|
| Family Dinner | Casual, family-style serving | 1-1.5 cups per person |
| Dinner Party | Plated individually with garnish | 3/4 cup per person |
| Buffet | Large serving dish with side options | 1 cup per person |
Pro tip: Allow the beef tomato recipe to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to enhance flavor integration and achieve optimal texture.
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
Making a tasty classic beef tomato recipe needs focus and care. Many home cooks make mistakes that can lower the dish’s quality.
Key Mistakes to Watch Out For
- Improper Meat Browning: Not browning your beef right can make it taste bland. Brown the meat at about 140°F to get a rich flavor without burning.
- Overseasoning or Underseasoning: It’s key to get the spice balance right. Start with a little and taste as you go.
- Overcooking Pasta: Pasta should be al dente, a bit firm when you bite it.
Seasoning and Cooking Tips
Salt is very important in your classic beef tomato recipe. Add salt early to help flavors spread. Worcestershire sauce can also boost flavor, maybe even more than using many herbs.
“The difference between a good dish and a great one is often in the details of preparation.” – Professional Chef
Ingredient Selection Insights
| Ingredient | Recommended Approach |
|---|---|
| Beef Cut | Choose collagen-rich cuts like chuck or shank for maximum tenderness |
| Tomatoes | Use Roma tomatoes for sauces, which have lower water content |
| Herbs | Fresh herbs can improve flavor profile by up to 40% |
Cooking is a journey of learning. Every mistake is a chance to get better at making your classic beef tomato recipe. Taste often, adjust seasonings, and feel free to try new things.
Conclusion
Your savory beef tomato recipe is more than just a meal. It’s a culinary adventure that brings comfort and nutrition to your table. With just 25 minutes of preparation time, you can create a protein-packed dish. This dish delivers 27 grams of protein per serving and keeps your health goals on track.
The versatility of this recipe makes it a standout in your cooking repertoire. You can easily swap the 90% lean ground beef for ground chicken or turkey. You can also experiment with different side dishes like rice or quinoa. Customize the flavors to suit your taste preferences. The savory beef tomato recipe allows you to be creative while maintaining a delicious and balanced meal.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a special meal for friends and family, this recipe offers convenience and flavor. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for three months. This ensures you always have a delicious meal option ready to go. Embrace the joy of cooking and make this savory beef tomato recipe your new go-to comfort food.
Remember, great cooking is about passion, experimentation, and sharing love through food. Your culinary skills will shine with this simple yet impressive dish. It transforms everyday ingredients into a memorable meal everyone will enjoy.