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Category: Beef

Touchdown Taco Pockets

Touchdown Taco Pockets

 

4 cans refrigerator biscuits (any kind)

1 lb. ground beef

1 package taco seasoning

Water

Shredded cheese

Optional garnishes: lettuce, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Brown ground beef in a medium skillet. Add taco seasoning and water as directed on package. Cook as directed. Remove from heat. On a cutting board, place 2 biscuits together and roll out into an oval with a rolling pin. Repeat with another 2 biscuits. Place a spoonful of taco meat and a spoonful of shredded cheese on one of the rolled out biscuits and place the other oval on top. Using a fork, press around edges to seal. Take a sharp knife and cut out a football shape. Make “laces” on top of the football with the scraps (see video tutorial). Bake on a greased cookie sheet for 8-12 minutes until done. Serve up with your favorite taco fixins’.

Beef and Roasted Root Stew with Black Butte Porter

Beef and Roasted Root Stew with Black Butte Porter

Beef and Roasted Root Stew with Black Butte Porter (PNW)

1 ½ T. flour

4 C. beef stock

2 lb. beef stew meat

1 C. Deschuetes Black Butte porter beer

3 garlic cloves

2 shallots, sliced

1 onion, diced

2 carrots, peeled and diced

1 C. sliced mushrooms

2 celery stalks, diced

2 T. tomato paste

1 T. Balsamic Vinegar

3 sprigs fresh thyme

 

In a small bowl, mix flour with beef stock until smooth. Place all ingredients in a slow cooker and set on low for 8 hours. Once complete, remove thyme sprigs, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bloody Mary Burgers with Horseradish Dressing

Bloody Mary Burgers with Horseradish Dressing

Bloody Mary Burgers with Horseradish Dressing

 

These are exceptionally good burgers; I’ve never known them fail to please anyone. They are essentially a kind of seared steak tartare – with the spicy seasonings leaning more toward a Bloody Mary. You can’t use any old ground beef for them. Ideally, ask your butcher to grind some top round for you, on a medium rather than a fine setting. If you’re shopping in the supermarket, go for ground sirloin – preferably organic. The better the meat, the more you can be inclined to serve these burgers pretty rare. As an alternative to the horseradish dressing, you could serve the burgers simply with hot mustard and mayonnaise.

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 1/2 teaspoons prepared horseradish

1/2 teaspoon celery seeds

4 to 8 dashes hot sauce, plus more as necessary (recommended: Tabasco)

1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

Freshly ground black pepper

3 pounds ground round

A little canola or olive oil, for brushing

 

1 (3/4 to 1 1/4-inch piece) fresh horseradish root, freshly grated

2 tablespoons creme fraiche

1 teaspoon cider vinegar

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

 

4 good bread buns, ciabatta rolls, or thick slices of baguette

A few romaine lettuce leaves

A few tomatoes, sliced

Ketchup, optional

 

For the burgers: In a medium bowl, mix together the tomato paste, horseradish, celery seeds, hot pepper sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and a generous grinding of black pepper. Add the beef and mix thoroughly with your hands, making sure the seasonings are spread throughout the meat. Let stand for at least an hour for the flavors to develop. Meanwhile, make the horseradish dressing. For the dressing: Mix the grated horseradish, creme fraiche and vinegar together in a bowl, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Break off a small piece of the beef mixture, the size of a walnut, and fry in a little oil until well cooked. Taste and adjust the seasonings, if necessary. To serve: Heat a grill. Shape the meat into 4 patties about 3/4-inch thick. Lightly brush each one with oil, then place on a grill over high heat. It’s hard to give exact cooking instructions due to variables such as the thickness of the burger, the heat of the grill, and personal preference. For a medium-rare burger, you will probably need to grill for 3 to 4 minutes, then flip over and cook the other side for a couple of minutes. If you’re cooking the burgers indoors, use a lightly oiled grill pan set over medium-high heat. Let the burgers rest for a minute or two while you prepare the buns. Toast the buns or other bread lightly on the cut side, then top with the lettuce leaves and tomato slices. Add the burgers and smear with horseradish sauce, and a dollop of ketchup if you like. Top with the other half of the bread. Good with French fries, obviously, but if they’re too much effort, really good potato chips will do.

Taco Puffs

Taco Puffs

1 lb. ground beef

1/2 C.  chopped onion

1 envelope taco seasoning

2 tubes (17.3 oz. size) large refrigerated biscuits

8 slices cheddar cheese, cut into halves or 2 C. shredded cheddar cheese

In a skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is tender; drain. Add the taco seasoning and prepare according to package directions. Cool slightly.  Flatten half of the biscuits into 4″ circles; place in a greased 15X10 (jelly- roll) pan. Spoon 1/4 C. meat mixture onto each: top with 2 cheese slices or 1/4 C. shredded cheese. Flatten the remaining biscuits; place on to and pinch edges to seal tightly.  Bake at 400 for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

 

Yield:

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Instant Pot Taco Soup

Instant Pot Taco Soup

Instant Pot Taco Soup

1 tablespoon avocado oil or other vegetable oil

2 cups yellow onion diced

2 pounds ground sirloin

taco seasoning

 

2 cans fire roasted diced tomatoes 14 ½ ounces each, with juices

1 can red kidney beans 15 ounces, with juices

1 can black beans 15 ounces, with juices

1 can pinto beans 15 ounces, with juices

1 can whole kernel corn 15 ¼ ounces, drained

2 cans diced green chiles 4 ½ ounces each

4 cups unsalted chicken stock

2 bay leaves

 

2 tablespoons chili powder

4 teaspoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons ground black pepper

2 teaspoons kosher salt

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon dried oregano

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

 

Turn the Instant Pot on ‘Sauté’ and using the ‘Adjust’ button, adjust the temperature setting to ‘More’ and allow the pot to heat up until the digital display reads ‘Hot’. Once the display reads ‘Hot’, add the avocado oil to the pot, allow it to heat up for about 30 seconds, and then add the diced onion. Sauté the onion, continually tossing until it becomes soft, slightly translucent, and begins to brown on the edges, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the ground sirloin to the pot and, using a large wooden or silicone spoon, break the ground sirloin up into small pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking until browned, 5 to 7 minutes. Add the taco seasoning, mix it into the beef, and continue cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their aromas and flavors into the ground beef. Turn the ‘Sauté’ feature off and add the diced tomatoes, beans, corn, green chilis, and chicken stock to the pot. Mix everything together well and then add the two bay leaves to the pot. Close the pot and set it to ‘Sealing’. Select the ‘Soup’ function and set the cook time to 10 minutes. Once the cook time has completed, allow for a 10-minute natural pressure release (NPR). As soon as the 10-minute NPR has finished, release any remaining pressure from the pot before opening. Once the pot is open, remove the two bay leaves. Serve and enjoy.

Instant Pot French Dip Sandwiches

Instant Pot French Dip Sandwiches

Instant Pot French Dip Sandwiches

1 tablespoon vegetable oil I use avocado oil

3 pounds chuck roast

2 teaspoons kosher salt

2 teaspoons ground black pepper

½ teaspoon garlic powder

1 large yellow onion thinly sliced

½ cup sweet red wine I prefer Llano Sweet Red

½ cup soy sauce I prefer Kikkoman

4 cups unsalted beef stock I prefer Kitchen Basics

1 bay leaf

 

2 loaves French bread

1 stick salted butter

16 slices provolone cheese

 

Season Roast: Start by seasoning the chuck roast with the salt, pepper and garlic powder. Make sure to rub in the spices and evenly coat the roast. Sear Roast: Turn on ‘Sauté’ and adjust the heat level to ‘Normal’. Allow the pot to heat up until the display reads ‘Hot’ and then add the vegetable oil and allow it to heat up. Next, place the chuck roast in the pot and sear undisturbed on one side for at least 5 minutes or until it’s nicely browned. Then, turn the roast over and brown on the other side. Once the roast has browned nicely on all sides, remove it from the Instant Pot and set aside. Leave the browned bits in the bottom of the pot. Sauté Onion: Add the sliced onion to the Instant Pot and sauté, deglazing the bottom of the pot and tossing the onion in the browned bits as they cook. Continue to sauté the onions until they are a golden brown and starting to caramelize. About 10 to 12 minutes. Add Wine: Add the red wine to the onions and cook, continuing to deglaze the bottom of the pot, until the wine is reduced by half. About 2 to 3 minutes. Add Soy Sauce, Stock & Roast: Add the soy sauce and beef stock to the pot, place the chuck roast back into the pot and then add the bay leaf. Turn off the Sauté function. 100-Minute Cook Time: Close the Instant Pot, set the pressure release valve to ‘Sealing’ and set the pot to cook on ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’, ‘High Pressure’ for 100 minutes. 25-Minute NPR: Once the 100-minute cook time has completed, allow for a 25-minute Natural Pressure Release. When the 25-minute NPR has finished, release the remaining pressure and then open the pot. Serve Roast: The chuck roast is ready to serve. It will fall apart as you try to remove it from the pot. I usually serve it straight from the pot, pulling pieces of meat off the roast using my metal tongs. I’ll then scoop out some of the juice with a ladle and serve it in a small ramekin for dipping.

 

Toast Bread: Cut each loaf of french bread into 2 to 4 sections (depending on length), butter each side and toast on a skillet. Add Cheese & Roast: Place two slices of provolone cheese on the bread and serve the roast over the top of the cheese. Enjoy the best French Dip sandwiches ever!

Instant Pot Old Fashioned Meatloaf

Instant Pot Old Fashioned Meatloaf

Instant Pot Old Fashioned Meatloaf

1 lb ground beef

1 cup oats or crushed crackers

1 large egg

1/2 large onion diced

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1/2 cup ketchup, plus some for topping

1 piece aluminum foil

1 cups water

 

Mix your ingredients (except the extra ketchup for topping and water) and mold into a loaf. Make a dent down the middle of your loaf. Place your loaf in a greased “boat” made of aluminum foil. Top your meatloaf with ketchup. Pour your water in your 6-quart Instant Pot.  Place your loaf boat in your instant pot (making sure the sides are much higher than the water). Place the lid on your Instant Pot and seal. Set on the meat setting for 30 minutes. Let it naturally release for 10-15 minutes. Quick release and serve! (If desired, put you loaf boat on a cookie sheet and broil on hi for about 90 seconds to 2 minutes to crisp up the edges and take your ketchup to the next level!)

Grilled Rib-eyes with Chile-Lime-Tequila Butter

Grilled Rib-eyes with Chile-Lime-Tequila Butter

6 rib-eye steaks

Olive oil

Chile-Lime-Tequila Compound Butter

Heat a gas or charcoal grill to a medium-hot temperature (about 350°F to 375°F). Brush both sides of steaks with oil, and season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let steaks rest at room temperature at least 15 minutes before grilling.  When the grill is heated, place steaks on the grate and close the lid. After about 4 minutes, rotate steaks a quarter turn to create crosshatched marks. After another 3 to 4 minutes, flip steaks over. After another 4 minutes, rotate steaks a quarter turn and grill to desired doneness. (It will take about 15 minutes of total cooking time to reach an internal temperature of 130°F for medium rare.) Remove steaks from the grill and let rest 7 to 10 minutes before serving.  To serve, slice compound butter into six rounds and top each steak with a round.

Grilled Rib-eyes with Chile-Lime-Tequila Butter

Chile-Lime-Tequila Compound Butter

6 T. unsalted butter (3/4 stick), at room temperature

2 tsp. minced jalapeño or serrano chiles (seeds and membranes removed)

1 T. freshly squeezed lime juice (from 1/2 medium lime)

2 tsp. tequila (optional)

2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 tsp.  kosher salt

 

In a mixing bowl, use a rubber spatula to soften butter until it is very spreadable. Add all other ingredients, and mix until thoroughly combined.  Place compound butter on a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape into a log, and twist the ends to seal. Place butter in the refrigerator to harden.

 

Yield:

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Fiber:

Greek Flank Steak

Greek Flank Steak

Greek Flank Steak

1 T. fresh oregano, minced

1 tsp. fresh mint, minced

1 tsp. lemon zest, minced

Juice of 1 lemon

1/2 C. olive oil

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

1 pound flank steak

Combine oregano, mint, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour over flank steak, coating all sides, and marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.  Oven Instructions: Preheat oven to 450°. Remove flank steak from marinade, discarding marinade. Heat a sauté pan to high heat. Sear flank steak 3 minutes on each side, until you get a nice brown sear. Move flank steak to a roasting pan. Finish flank steak in oven 15-18 minutes to medium doneness. Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes. Slice into diagonal strips. Serve with grilled veggies or on a salad with a side of tzatziki sauce. Grill Instructions: Heat grill to 500-550°. Grill flank steak, 7-9 minutes per side for medium doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes.  Slice on the diagonal and serve.

Caesar Burgers

Caesar Burgers

1 lb. extra lean ground beef

1 head romaine lettuce, washed and dried

8-oz. purchased Caesar salad dressing

1/2 C. mayonnaise

Parmesan cheese, shredded

Lemon juice

Kaiser rolls, cut sides lightly toasted

 

Tear or cut romaine lettuce into bite-size pieces. Combine Caesar dressing, mayonnaise and lemon juice in a bowl salad bowl and beat with a whisk until creamy and smooth. Transfer romaine lettuce to the bowl and toss to mix and coat lettuce. Add Parmesan cheese and toss. Heat grill according to instructions that came with the grill. Form ground beef into 4 patties. Season with salt and pepper. Place burgers on the grill, close lid and grill the patties for length of time recommended by instructions that came with your grill. Place bottom half of the Kaiser roll in center of plate. Slather with Caesar dressing. Transfer cooked burger to the roll. Spoon a generous amount of Caesar salad on top of the burger. (The salad will fall to the sides of the burger so make sure you have enough on top!) Place top of the bun on the salad, slightly off center. Serve this one with a knife and fork!

 

Beer Braised Beef

Beer Braised Beef

3 to 4 lb. stew beef

1/2 C. flour

1 T. salt

2 tsp. paprika

1 tsp. pepper

12 small white onions, peeled

4 strips bacon, diced

16 oz. sliced mushrooms

1 can (12 oz. or 1 1/2 C. s) beer

1 tsp.  sugar

1 T. vinegar

1/2 tsp.  dried leaf thyme, crushed

1 small bay leaf

 

Combine flour, salt, paprika, and pepper in a large shallow bowl or food storage bag. Toss beef cubes in flour mixture to coat thoroughly. Place onions, bacon and about half of the mushrooms in Crockpot. Add beef and remaining mushrooms. Combine beer, sugar, vinegar, thyme, and bay leaf; pour over beef. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours. Serve beef with noodles or rice.  If desired, make a gravy from juices. Strain cooking liquids into a saucepan and simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly. Combine 2 T. of flour with about 3 to 4 T. of water to make a smooth paste. Pour into beef juice mixture and simmer until thickened.

 

Instant Pot Dirty Rice

Instant Pot Dirty Rice

Instant Pot Dirty Rice

 

1 lb. lean ground beef

1 lb. ground sausage

1 cup yellow onions diced

3/4 cup green bell peppers diced

1/2 cup celery diced

1 Tbsp. creole seasoning

2 cups long grain white rice

2 cups chicken stock

4 thyme sprigs

2 bay leaves

1/4 cup green onions thinly sliced

2 Tbsp. parsley finely chopped

 

Using sauté setting – add beef and sausage to pot along with onions, peppers, celery, and creole seasoning. As the meat begins to brown, break up as much as possible and cook until meat is browned thoroughly. Add rice to pot, along with chicken stock, and mix well. Place thyme and bay leaves on top (so that you can easily remove them later). Lock lid and cook for 12 minutes at low pressure. Once cook time is complete, allow pressure to release naturally (will take about 10 minutes). Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaves, then mix. Finally, add green onions and parsley, then mix really well one last time.

Monster Mouth Pasta Shells

Monster Mouth Pasta Shells

 

1 tsp. vegetable oil

1 medium onion, chopped

4 slices bacon, chopped

1 pound ground beef

2 medium plum tomatoes, seeded and chopped

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

4 slices American cheese, chopped

1/2 package (12 ounces) jumbo pasta shells (about 18 shells), cooked and drained

baby carrots, olives, red bell pepper, small pickles and cheese slices for decoration

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease 13×9 inch baking dish.  Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bacon. Cook until onion is tender. Add beef, then cook and stir about 5 minutes or until beef is no longer pink. Stir in tomatoes, cheese, salt and black pepper. Spoon mixture into cooked shells, then place in prepared baking dish.  Cut carrots into very thin strips. Cut small slit in each olive and poke one end of thin carrot strip into each olive for “eye.” Cut red bell pepper into fang shapes. Slice pickle lengthwise to make tongue shape. Cut cheese slice into zigzag pattern for teeth.  Bake 3 to 5 minutes or until hot and remove from oven.  Decorate as desired with olive and carrot eyes, bell pepper fangs, pickle tongue and cheese teeth. Serve immediately.

Instant Pot Mongolian Beef

Instant Pot Mongolian Beef

Instant Pot Mongolian Beef

1 tablespoon oil optional.

1 pound flank steak cut into thin strips

2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger

1 tablespoon garlic

1/3 cup reduced sodium soy sauce

2/3 cup pineapple juice

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1/4 cup honey or brown sugar

2 tablespoons cornstarch

 

Prepare you flank steak by slicing against the grain into very thin strips (about 1/4-1/2 inch thick). If you want to sear your meat, turn your Instant Pot to sauté. Once it reads “HOT,” add in 1/2 -1 tablespoon oil and let heat for 1 minute. Add in beef and sauté until JUST browned. About 2 minutes. Mix together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey and seasonings and add to Instant Pot.  Put lid on Instant Pot and turn vent knob to the sealed position.  Hit manual (you will have to first turn the Instant Pot OFF from Sauté function) and then adjust the cook time by using the plus or minus buttons to 3 minutes.  After cook time has elapsed, let rest 5-10 minutes and then do a quick release.  Turn Instant Pot back to sauté. Make a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water until fully combined. Add cornstarch slurry to pressure cooker and stir and boil for 2-3 minutes.  Turn off instant pot and serve Mongolian Beef with rice, cauliflower rice and top with scallions or sesame seeds if desired.

 

It is NOT necessary to sear your meat first. Instead, put flank steak with soy sauce, honey, pineapple juice, garlic, ginger and red pepper flakes in Instant Pot and cook on high for 8 minutes. Follow instructions for adding cornstarch slurry as written.

If you do not want to use honey, brown sugar can be substituted.

Pineapple juice is a great way to add sweetness to the dish naturally to cut back on the amount of added sugar.

If your flank steak is frozen in strips, increase cook time to 10 minutes.

Adjust amount of red pepper flakes based upon how much spice you like.

To cook rice while cooking the beef, follow these steps:

Saute the beef as directed. Add in all the ingredients for the Mongolian Sauce.

Insert a rack in the Instant Pot (right over the Mongolian Beef Mixture).

Place a 7 cup oven safe dish on top of the rack and put in 1 1/2 cups Jasmine rice and 1 1/2 cup water (or stock).

Close the instant pot and turn valve to sealed. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.

Let pressure release for 10 minutes and then open the Instant Pot.

Remove the rice and rack from the inner pot and proceed with thickening the Mongolian Beef with the cornstarch slurry as the recipe directs.

Taco Salad Casserole

Taco Salad Casserole

Taco Salad Casserole

 

1 pound ground beef

1/4 cup chopped onion

1/4 cup chopped green pepper

1 envelope taco seasoning

1/2 cup water

1 cup crushed tortilla chips

1 can (16 ounces) refried beans

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Toppings: Chopped lettuce and tomatoes, sliced ripe olives, sour cream and picante sauce

 

In a large skillet, cook beef, onion and green pepper over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Cook and stir until thickened, about 3 minutes; set aside. Place chips in a greased 8-in. square baking dish. In a small bowl, stir refried beans; spread over chips. Top with beef mixture and cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 375° until heated through, 15-20 minutes. Top with lettuce, tomatoes and olives. Serve with sour cream and picante sauce.

Dutch Oven Camp Chili

Dutch Oven Camp Chili

Dutch Oven Camp Chili

 

2 lb. hamburger

2 onions, diced

2 large cans of kidney or red beans, or a combination of both

2 cans cream of tomato soup, undiluted or 2 cans diced tomatoes

4 tsp. chili powder

2 tsp. garlic powder or two cloves of minced garlic

pepper to taste

grated Cheddar cheese (optional)

 

Brown meat and onions in pot. Drain off excess fat. Add beans, tomatoes or soup, chili powder, garlic and green pepper. Simmer together for about 20-30 minutes to one hour. Top with cheese. Serves 12.

Dutch Oven Beef & Bean Goulash

Dutch Oven Beef & Bean Goulash

Dutch Oven Beef & Bean Goulash

 

1 lb. hamburger

1 onion, chopped

1 green pepper, chopped

1 c. catsup

1 can kidney beans

1 c. elbow macaroni (cooked)

1 small can mushrooms or 6 oz. pkg fresh mushrooms

 

Brown hamburger in skillet with onions and green pepper, stirring until crumbly. Drain off excess fat. Add catsup, bean and mushroom mix together and cook for 10 minutes. Stir in macaroni and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Serves 6-8.

Dutch Oven Meaty Beans

Dutch Oven Meaty Beans

Dutch Oven Meaty Beans

 

1 lb. hamburger

5 cans pork and beans

1 c. catsup

1/4 c. prepared mustard

2 onions, chopped

1 cup barbecue sauce

1/2 c. packed brown sugar

1/4 c. pancake syrup

 

Brown meat and onions in pot (or Dutch oven), pour off excess fat. Mix in remaining ingredients and cook covered for approximately 46 minutes. Serves 10-12.

Cuban Beef Picadillo

Cuban Beef Picadillo

 

1 T. EVOO

3/4 C. diced Onion

1/2 C. diced Red Bell Pepper

1 1/2 tsp. minced Garlic

1 lb. Ground Beef

1 tsp. Cumin

1 tsp. Salt

1/4 tsp. Pepper

1/2 C. Tomato sauce

1/2 C. dry White Wine

10 Green Olives

1/4 C. Raisins

 

Heat oil in large skillet over medium high heat.  Add onion, pepper and garlic and cook for a few minutes, until onion softens.  Add ground beef and spices and cook until beef is no longer pink, breaking up meat with a spoon as it cooks.  Stir in tomato sauce, wine, olives and raisins.  Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 5 to 8 minutes, or until sauce had thickened slightly.  Season with additional cumin, salt and pepper to taste.  Serve warm over white rice.

Ground Beef Layered Casserole

Ground Beef Layered Casserole

 

3 potatoes, peeled and sliced

3 carrots, peeled and sliced

1/2 cup uncooked rice

1 onion, sliced

1 pound ground beef or turkey

1 quart canned tomatoes

Salt and pepper to taste

1 T. brown sugar

 

Layer the ingredients as listed, ending with salt and pepper. If desired, sprinkle with brown sugar.  Bake at 300 degrees for 3 hours.

Homemade Hamburger Helper Mix (with Variations)

Homemade Hamburger Helper Mix (with Variations)

 

Homemade Hamburger Helper Mix

 

1 1/4 tsp. black pepper

1 T. garlic powder

2 T. dried parsley

1/3 cup instant onion

3 T. onion powder

1 T. salt

1 2/3 cup dry milk

3 1/2 T. beef bouillon

Mix this all up and store in a glass jar or other sealed container.

 

Use 1/2 cup for each pound of ground meat.

 

Basic recipe:

 

1 pound ground beef

1/2 cup of mix (above)

1 to 2 cups noodles (elbow macaroni for example)

1 1/2 to 3 cups water

flavorings

 

Brown and drain the ground beef. Stir in the dry mix, then add 2 cups hot water and 2 cups noodles. You can add more or less water and noodles, proportionately, depending on much you need to stretch that pound of beef. Bring to a boil, then turn down to a simmer, cover, and cook until noodles are tender, about 20 minutes.

 

Cheeseburger skillet: add 1 cup dehydrated cheese with the dry mix. Or cook as above, then stir in 2 cups grated Cheddar or Colby cheese before serving.

 

Stroganoff: add a bit of 1/2 tsp of onion powder and 1/2 tsp celery salt with the dry mix. Stir in a 1/2 cup fresh or canned mushrooms. After cooking noodles, stir in 1/4 cup sour cream just before serving.

 

Chili: Add one 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, 1 T. chili powder.

 

Potato variation: Instead of macaroni, add 2-3 cups very thinly sliced potatoes. Simmer 20-30 minutes until potatoes are tender. Uncover and simmer until liquid has evaporated.

Caliente Pot Roast

Caliente Pot Roast

 

1 16- or 17-ounce package refrigerated cooked beef pot roast with juices

1-1/2 C. purchased sliced fresh mushrooms

1 8-ounce bottle picante sauce

1 14-1/2-ounce can reduced-sodium chicken broth

1 C. quick-cooking couscous

2 T. snipped fresh cilantro

Dairy sour cream (optional)

Chopped fresh tomato (optional)

Sliced avocado (optional)

Cilantro sprigs (optional)

 

Transfer liquid from pot roast package to a large skillet; add mushrooms and picante sauce. Cut pot roast into 1- to 1-1/2-inch cubes; add to skillet. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan bring chicken broth to boiling; stir in couscous. Remove from heat. Cover and let stand 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork; stir in snipped cilantro. Spoon pot roast mixture atop hot cooked couscous mixture. Serve with sour cream, tomato, and/or avocado and top with cilantro sprigs.

Garlic Balsamic Brown Sugar Steaks

Garlic Balsamic Brown Sugar Steaks

Garlic Balsamic Brown Sugar Steaks

 

2 T. butter

1 T. salad oil such as canola

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

2/3 C. dark brown sugar, packed

1/3 C. aged balsamic vinegar (*aged will be sweeter)

2 T. Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp. coarse ground black pepper

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 tsp. sriracha sauce

1/8 tsp. cajun seasoning

1/8 tsp. cayenne

two thick-cut New York Strip steaks, (beef tenderloins or other tender cuts would work well, too)

 

In small sauté pan, melt butter and oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute.

Remove pan from heat, add rest of ingredients and stir until brown sugar has melted. Let cool completely. Pour into a ziplock baggie. Close baggie and chill. Add steaks and squish around so that the marinade sauce is coating both well on both sides. Seal baggie closed well, removing air in bag, and pop into the fridge to marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight making sure steaks are not stacked. Turn bag now and then to evenly marinate steaks. For rare to medium-rare steaks, heat grill to HIGH, place steaks onto HOT, oiled grates, and grill each side 4 – 6 minutes depending on thickness of steaks with lid OPEN. (*Ours were barely one inch thick and medium-rare after just 5 minutes. So, watch carefully). Let rest at least 5 minutes before cutting to let the juices settle. Really nice served with a simple baked potato, grilled asparagus, and a tossed garden salad with one of my homemade salad dressings! Enjoy!  If you want, you can bring the leftover marinade to a simmer, and thicken until a rich syrupy sauce for dipping, and serve with the steaks on the side or drizzle over the top. REALLY good!!

Creamy Mushroom Beef Chuck Roast

Creamy Mushroom Beef Chuck Roast

Creamy Mushroom Beef Chuck Roast

5 lb. chuck roast

1 T. olive oil

1 454 g package of white or cremini mushrooms

1 large yellow onion, chopped

one 1 oz. package dry onion soup mix

2 10.75 oz can of cream of mushroom soup

1 1/4 C. water

 

Pre-heat your oven to 400 °F.  Heat a skillet or the Dutch oven over medium heat with the olive oil it. Place the chuck roast in and brown on all sides in the hot oil. Place into the Dutch oven or lidded roaster.  Place the mushrooms and onion around the chuck roast. Whisk together the soups and the water until as smooth as possible (it usually is chunky a bit, that’s ok!) Pour over the roast. Place the lid on top of the roaster/Dutch oven and place in the preheated oven. Cook for 20 minutes then turn down the oven to 325°F. Cook for another 4-5 hours until the roast pulls apart easily when touched with a fork. Remove and plate. Whisk together the mushrooms and onions and drippings to make a gravy. Serve over the beef.

 

Slow Cooker Instructions

 

Heat a skillet over medium heat with the olive oil it. Place the chuck roast in and brown on all sides in the hot oil. Place into the slow cooker.  Place the mushrooms and onion around the chuck roast. Whisk together the  soups and the water until as smooth as possible ( it usually is chunky a bit, that’s ok!) Pour over the roast and place the lid on the slow cooker. Cook for 8-10 hours on low until the roast pulls apart easily when touched with a fork. Remove and plate. Whisk together the mushrooms and onions and drippings to make a gravy. Serve over the beef.

Beef Loin with Tarragon Sauce

Beef Loin with Tarragon Sauce

2 Beef Top Loin Steak, cut 1” thick

1 C. Plain Yogurt

¼ C. Mayonnaise

¼ C. thinly sliced Scallions

¼ C. Apple Juice or Cider

1 T. snipped Fresh Parsley

1 ½ tsp. snipped fresh Tarragon

Salt and Pepper

 

Preheat Broiler. Cut steaks into 4 serving-size portions. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and place steaks on unheated rack of a broiler pan. Broil 3-4 inches from heat for 12-14 minutes for medium rare, turning once halfway through broiling. Meanwhile, for sauce, in a small bowl stir together yogurt, mayo, scallions, apple juice, parsley, tarragon and salt and pepper. Serve sauce with steak.

Cheesy Steak Bake

Cheesy Steak Bake

Cheesy Steak Bake

1 lb. steak tips

1 C. sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1 C. fontina cheese, grated

6 slices bacon, optional

2 white onions, thinly sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 T. herbs de Provence

kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Preheat oven to 375º F. If using, cook bacon to personal preference. (Don’t make it too crispy, as it will also be baked later.) In a large pan or skillet over high heat sear steak tips until browned on all sides. Transfer steak to a plate or bowl and drain off fat, leaving 1 T. in the skillet.

Reduce heat to medium-low heat and add sliced onion. Season with salt and pepper and sauté for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until onions are softened, translucent and golden brown. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Place steak tips in a large baking dish, add bacon strips (if using) and cover with caramelized onions and garlic.

Top with both cheeses and sprinkle with herbs de Provence. Place in oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and steak is cooked through. Remove from oven and serve hot.

Italian Wedding Salad

Italian Wedding Salad

 

6 ounces orzo pasta

chicken broth or water

32 frozen meatballs, thawed

1/2 C. Italian dressing

1 (6 ounce) jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained & chopped

1 (6 ounce) package baby spinach leaves

1/4 C. chopped walnuts, toasted

salt and pepper

grated parmesan cheese (to garnish)

 

Cook the orzo in the chicken broth or water as directed on package. Drain well. In a Dutch oven, combine the thawed meatballs and Italian dressing. Cook over medium heat to heat balls through. Stir in the drained orzo, chopped artichoke hearts, spinach leaves and toasted walnuts. Heat and stir until spinach is wilted. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Creamy Beef Rigatoni Casserole

Creamy Beef Rigatoni Casserole

 

1 lb of Rigatoni Pasta

1 lb of ground beef

1 jar of seasoned spaghetti sauce

1 T. Parsley

1 C. sour cream

1 C. softened cream cheese

salt and pepper to taste

1 egg

1 T. olive oil

2 C. of shredded mozzarella cheese

 

Preheat oven to 375. Cook pasta according to directions on package or until al dente; drain. Brown beef in skillet. Cook over medium-high heat until evenly brown. Season with salt. Reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes. If you like, you may add onion or garlic if to suite your palette. In a bowl, mix together sour cream, egg and cream cheese. I prefer to use my Kitchen Aid because it makes it nice and fluffy. Stir in spaghetti sauce with the cheese mixture. (You will want to use as seasoned spaghetti sauce. I used a garlic, basil, oregano. If you are using a plain marinara, you can season it) Do not use mixed for this, hand stir. Add in 1 C. of the shredded mozzarella. Stir in ground beef. Mix together. Place pasta in casserole in dish. Mix cheese/sauce mixture in casserole dish with pasta. Sprinkle cheese on top and sprinkle parsley on top. Cook for 25-35 in preheated oven until cheese is bubbly.

ZBD Skirt Steak

ZBD Skirt Steak

ZBD Skirt Steak

 

1 tsp. olive oil

1 lb. skirt or flank steak

8 oz. sliced cremini mushrooms

1 shallot, minced

1 garlic clove, minced

1 tsp. flour

1/2 cup chicken stock

1/2 cup red wine

1 T. butter

 

Heat the olive oil in large cast-iron pan over medium heat. Season the steak on both sides with salt and pepper and place in the pan. Cook until nicely browned all over firm but yielding to the touch, about 4 minutes per side. Remove to a cutting board to let rest.  In the same pan, still set on medium-heat, add the mushrooms, cook for a minute or two until softened, then add shallot and garlic. Cook until the mushrooms are nicely browned, about 3 more minutes, then add the flour, stirring so it evenly coats the vegetables. Add the chicken stock and the red wine, whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Season with salt and pepper to taste. At the last moment, swirl in the butter. Slice steak and divide among four warm plate

Taco Mac

Taco Mac

1 lb. ground beef

1/2 onion, diced

1 T. chili powder

1 T. cumin

2 t. garlic powder

1 t. salt

1/2 lb. elbow macaroni

1 1/2 C. beef stock or broth

1 8 oz. can tomato sauce

1 14.5 oz. can crushed tomatoes

2 C. frozen corn

1 C. shredded cheese

 

Brown ground beef and onion. Drain. Stir in seasonings. Add noodles, stock, tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low. Cover skillet and simmer, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender, about 15 – 20 minutes. Stir in corn until heated through. Top with cheese and serve.

Biscuit-Topped Beef Casserole Recipe

Biscuit-Topped Beef Casserole Recipe

1/2 pound lean ground beef

1/4 C. chopped onion

1/2 C. water

1/2 C. tomato sauce

1/4 C. tomato paste

1/8 tsp. pepper

1 C. frozen mixed vegetables, thawed

1/2 C. shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided

1 tube (6 ounces) refrigerated flaky buttermilk biscuits

1 tsp. butter, melted

1/4 tsp. dried oregano

 

In a small saucepan, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the water, tomato sauce, tomato paste and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes.  Remove from the heat; stir in vegetables and 1/4 C. cheese. Transfer to a 1-qt. baking dish coated with cooking spray (dish will be full).  Separate each biscuit horizontally in half; arrange around edge of dish. Brush with butter; sprinkle with oregano. Sprinkle remaining cheese over beef filling.  Bake, uncovered, at 375° for 18-22 minutes or until heated through and biscuits are golden brown.

Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger Soup

1/2 lb. ground beef

3/4 C. chopped onion

3/4 C. shredded carrots

3/4 C. diced celery

1 tsp. dried basil

1 tsp. dried parsley flakes

4 T. butter or margarine, divided

3 C. chicken broth

4 C. diced peeled potatoes

1/4 C. flour

8 oz. cheese, cubed or shredded

1-1/2 C. milk

3/4 tsp. salt

1/4 to 1/2 tsp. pepper

1/4 C. sour cream

 

In a 3-quart saucepan, brown beef; drain and set aside.  In the same saucepan, sauté onion, carrots, celery, basil and parsley in 1 T. butter until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Add broth, potatoes, and beef; bring to a boil.  Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Meanwhile, in a small skillet, melt remaining butter.  Add flour; cook and stir for 3-5 minutes or until bubbly.  Add to soup; bring to a boil.  Cook and stir for 2 minutes.  Reduce heat to low.  Add cheese, milk, salt, and pepper; cook and stir until cheese melts.  Remove from the heat; blend in sour cream.  Makes 8 servings.

Pierogi Skillet Dinner

Pierogi Skillet Dinner

1 Tbsp. olive oil

1 lb. smoked sausage or Keilbasa

1 box of mini pierogies (I use the potato and cheese but use whatever your family likes)

2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables.

Cut the smoked sausage diagonally into 1/2 inch thick slices. Put a large pot of water on high to start it boiling. Once boiling add the frozen vegetables. Stir to prevent sticking. Make sure you don’t overcook the vegetables. You will be adding them to the skillet and they will continue to cook there. You’ll want to bring the water back to a boil so you can add the pierogies into the same water with the vegetables. Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium high heat. Add smoked sausage to oil and cook until browned. While the sausage is browning, it should be time to add the pierogies to the vegetables and water. Be careful…these cook quick. As soon as the pierogies float, strain the vegetables and pierogies. Add the vegetables and pierogies to the skillet and continue to cook until the pierogies brown a little.

CrockPot Hickory Smoked Brisket

CrockPot Hickory Smoked Brisket

3-4 pounds beef brisket, or chuck roast

1 T – 1/2 cup hickory liquid smoke (sub Worcestershire sauce for some smoke if you like)

1/4 cup A-1 steak sauce

1 T celery salt (see note below, I’d stick with a 1/2T)

1/2 T garlic powder

1/2 t pepper

 

Use a 4 quart crockpot. I used a 6—if you only have a big guy, put a layer of foil down on top of the meat to create a smaller steaming space so your meat doesn’t dry out. Put the meat in your crockpot, add spices to all sides of it. Add A-1 and liquid smoke.  Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6. Slow and low is better, the meat will shred nicely when cooked for a long period of time. I cooked ours on low for 10 hours, then it was on warm for another 3.  Serve over mashed potatoes or polenta.

Bourbon Street Steak

Bourbon Street Steak

2 T. yellow onion, diced

1/2 cup bourbon

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup lemon juice

1 1/2 tsp. chopped garlic (about 2 cloves)

4 (10−ounce) New York strip steak

 

Mix onion, bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice and garlic in a small bowl. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Place steaks in a shallow dish large enough for them to be in a single layer. Pour marinade over steaks. Cover and refrigerate for 4 to 8 hours. You may turn steaks occasionally. Remove steaks and discard marinade. Grill to desired doneness. Makes 4 steaks.

Garlic-Chile Flank Steak

Garlic-Chile Flank Steak

1 clove garlic, minced

2 T. white vinegar

1 T. canola oil

1 tsp. ground ancho chile pepper

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

1/2 tsp. ground cumin

1⁄8 tsp. salt

1/2 pound flank steak, trimmed of fat

 

Whisk garlic, vinegar, oil, ground chile, oregano, cumin and salt in a small bowl. Place steak in a shallow baking dish and pour marinade over it, turning to coat both sides. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, turning once, or overnight.  Preheat grill to high heat. Oil the grill rack rack. Grill the steak until desired doneness, 5 to 6 minutes per side for medium. Transfer to a plate, cover with foil and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice the steak very thinly across the grain. Serve warm or chilled.

 

Yield: 2 servings

Calories: 282

Fat: 16g

Fiber: 0g

Tuscan Grilled Steak

Tuscan Grilled Steak

3 large cloves garlic, crushed

2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 flank steak, about 2 pounds

Salt and pepper

4 oz. (about 6 C.) arugula

 

In a small bowl, mash garlic and oil until a paste forms (you may also do this in the food processor). Pat steak dry with paper towel, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Rub garlic paste over both sides of steak. let sit for 30 minutes.  Preheat grill to high heat. Grill steak 5 to 7 minutes, until medium-rare. To check, cut into meat with a knife and remove when meat is slightly less done than you want it to be. Transfer to cutting board; cover loosely with foil and let rest 10 minutes. Slice very thin, against the grain and at a slight angle.   Arrange arugula on platter. Top with steak slices. Drizzle with any accumulated platter juices. Serve immediately.

 

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 280

Fat: 12g

Fiber: 0g

Red Wine Beef and Mushrooms

Red Wine Beef and Mushrooms

6 slices bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

2 pound lean boneless beef stew meat

1 C. dry red wine

1 14 oz. can chicken broth

1 1/4 C. water

2 8 oz. packages fresh whole mushrooms, quartered

4 cloves garlic, chopped

1 tsp. dried thyme leaves

3/4 tsp. each salt and pepper

2 dried bay leaves

1/4 C. all-purpose flour

1 12 oz. package uncooked fettuccine

1 T. butter

1 15 oz. jar whole pearl onions in water, drained

2 T. sugar

 

In 6-quart Dutch oven, cook bacon until lightly browned. Remove bacon; set aside. Reserve 1 T. drippings in pan. Add beef; cook and stir until browned. Remove beef from Dutch oven. In same Dutch oven, heat wine to boiling. Add broth and 1 C. of the water; cook and stir 2 minutes. Stir in bacon, beef, mushrooms, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper and bay leaves. Over medium-low heat, cover and simmer about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender. Remove bay leaves. In small bowl, mix flour and remaining 1/4 C. water until smooth. Add to beef mixture; cook and stir about 1 minute or until sauce is slightly thickened. Cook fettuccine as directed on package. In 8-inch skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Stir in onions and sugar; cook about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are lightly browned. Stir onion mixture into beef mixture. Serve over fettuccine; if desired sprinkle with parsley.

Easy Nacho Skillet Dinner

Easy Nacho Skillet Dinner

1 lb. ground turkey or beef

2 C. Progresso® red kidney beans, drained, rinsed (from 19-oz can)

1 (15-oz.) can tomato sauce

1 (11-oz.) can Green Giant® Mexicorn® Whole Kernel Corn, Red and Green Peppers, undrained

1 tsp. chili powder

2 C. slightly broken tortilla chips

4 oz. (1 C.) shredded Cheddar cheese

 

In large skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground turkey or beef until thoroughly cooked; drain.  Stir in beans, tomato sauce, corn and chili powder. Reduce heat to low; simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Sprinkle tortilla chips evenly over beef mixture; top with cheese. Cover; simmer 2 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Instant Pot French Dip

Instant Pot French Dip

Instant Pot French Dip

2.5 pound Chuck Roast

1 T. olive oil

1 tsp. kosher salt

1 tsp. black pepper

½ tsp. garlic powder

Au Jus Sauce

1/4 cup red wine optional

1/3 cup soy sauce

2 T. Worcestershire sauce

2 T. brown sugar

2 cups beef broth

2 T. dry minced onions

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

1/4 tsp. dried thyme

1 bay leaf

1 tsp. minced garlic

The Rest

1 onion sliced

6 soft rolls

1 T. butter melted

6 slices provolone cheese

Parsley for garnish

 

Take salt, pepper, and garlic powder and mix together in a small bowl, then cover the exterior of the chuck roast with the seasonings. Let sit to come to room temp, about 10-15 minutes. Put olive oil into Instant Pot pot and turn pot to Sauté. Using kitchen tongs, sear the roast on all sides in the pot, once all sides are seared, remove from pot and add onions in, keeping it on sauté. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become fragrant and start to soften. Add red wine to pot, and let it come to a simmer, use it to deglaze the pan, by scraping the brown bits off the bottom with a wooden spoon. If you don’t cook with wine, you can use beef stock in its place. Once you have scraped the brown bits off, add in the remaining sauce ingredients (soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, minced onions, dried oregano, dried thyme, bay leaf, and minced garlic). Return the chuck roast to the pot, and close the lid, make sure the pressure valve is set to “sealing”. Hit the meat/stew button, and set time for 100 minutes. Let cook. When pot is done, let it naturally depressurize for half an hour, then turn to “venting” to release any excess pressure. Remove roast from pot, and shred or slice. Strain liquid to make au jus for dipping.

Turn oven to broil, and, cut rolls, and brush inside with melted butter, broil for 2-3 minutes to toast them, lightly browned. Layer with meat and provolone cheese Return to broiler, and broil until cheese starts to melt (another 2-3 minutes) Serve with a side of au jus, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Notes: 100 minutes is not a typo, the roast could however be tender at a lesser time, but I have found this to be a fool-proof time for cooking so that no matter how marbled your roast is (or isn’t) or how tough the cut ends up being, you get fall apart tender. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pan after you add the wine or broth to deglaze it so the pot does not read “burn “I used an Instant Pot -Lux that is 6 Quart size to make this recipe. Total cook time reflects the few minutes it takes to come to pressure as well as time for assembling sandwiches. It may be off by a few minutes.