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Homemade Cheeseburger Macaroni Hamburger Helper

Homemade Cheeseburger Macaroni Hamburger Helper

Homemade Cheeseburger Macaroni Hamburger Helper

1 pound ground beef

1 medium onion, diced

2 large cloves garlic, minced

2 1/2 C. beef broth

1 tsp. yellow mustard

1/2 C. ketchup

1/4 C. tomato paste

1 tsp. pickle juice (optional)

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. black pepper

8 ounces macaroni

1 C. (4 ounces) cheddar cheese, grated

Scallions, chopped, for serving (optional)

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the beef, onions and garlic, breaking apart the meat as you go, until the onions are soft and the meat cooked through. Drain off grease and return pan to heat.  In a medium bowl, whisk together the beef broth, mustard, ketchup, tomato paste, pickle juice (if using), salt, and pepper. Add to meat. Bring the meat mixture to a boil, then add macaroni. Reduce the heat to medium low, and cover. Continue cooking for 10 to 12 minutes, until the pasta is tender (check it a couple of times during cooking to make sure the pasta isn’t sticking to the bottom).  When the macaroni is done, sprinkle the grated cheese on top. Stir until melted, about 1 minute. Top with scallions, if desired, and serve immediately.

Wild Rice Hot Dish

Wild Rice Hot Dish

1 lb. ground beef

1 green pepper

1 C. celery, chopped

1 can mushrooms

1/2 pkg. slivered almonds

1 can mushroom soup

4 C. canned chicken broth

1 C. wild rice, washed

1 T. soy sauce

Pinch of rosemary

Handful of cranberries (preferably fresh, although dried will work, too)

 

Brown first four ingredients in a pan. Add the rest of the ingredients. Bake at 375 degrees for 1 1/2 hours. Rice will soak up the broth and pop open. After 1 hour, put the cranberries on the top of the hot dish. This will give the dish a surprisingly tart flavor when the berries are mixed in with the rest of the hot dish.

Macaroni and Beef Hot Dish

Macaroni and Beef Hot Dish

1 lb. elbow macaroni

1 medium onion, chopped

1 lb. ground beef, cooked and drained

1 28 oz. can Italian tomatoes with liquid, broken up (may want to add 1 smaller can, too…drain and reserve liquid, in case it is needed)

Salt and pepper

2 C. shredded cheddar or mozzarella

 

Cook macaroni until just tender. Brown beef with onions and drain. Mix macaroni, meat and tomatoes, season. Pour half into a lightly buttered casserole and top with half of cheese. Add remainder of mixture and top with remainder of cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

VARIATIONS: You can add oregano, chopped garlic, Italian seasoning, etc.

Tamale Pie

Tamale Pie

2 lbs. ground beef

1 large chopped onion

1 large chopped green bell pepper

1 C. tomato sauce

1 can chopped black olives

1 1/2 C. yellow corn meal

3/4 lbs. shredded cheddar cheese

1 tsp. ground cumin or 2 tsp. chili powder

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

1/2 tsp. salt (once again)

 

To a large skillet add ground beef, onion, green pepper, cumin, salt and pepper. Saute until beef is browned and veggies are soft. Drain fat from pan. Add tomato sauce and stir until boiling. In medium sauce pan, stir 2 1/2 C. water, corn meal and 1/2 tsp. salt. Bring mixture to boil until thickened. Grease huge casserole (hot dish) dish, coat bottom of casserole (hot dish) dish with half the corn meal mixture, pour beef mixture into casserole (hot dish), cover top with chopped or sliced black olives. Layer cheddar cheese over top of that. Spoon remainder of hot corn meal mixture over entire top. If need be, make another batch of corn meal mixture for top. Bake at 350 degrees until top is golden brown and bubbly.

Bacon & Beef Hot Dish

Bacon & Beef Hot Dish

3-4 strips bacon (more if you use center cut)

1 C. diced celery

1 C. diced green pepper

1 C. diced onion

1 lb. lean ground beef

3 C. cooked rice

1 can tomato soup

salt & pepper to taste

 

Dice bacon and cook over low heat to render most of the fat without overcooking — you want it a bit short of crumbly. Remove to large mixing bowl. Leave a T. or so of fat in pan. Raise heat to medium high and add vegetables and salt and pepper to taste. Sauté vegetables until tender. Don’t brown. I start with the celery and give it an extra minute or two. Add vegetables to bacon in mixing bowl. Brown ground beef, breaking into fairly small pieces. Drain and add to bacon and vegetables. Add rice and mix thoroughly. Add soup and mix again. Taste and adjust seasoning. Put in casserole (hot dish) dish and bake covered at 350 degrees for 45 minutes to an hour. Bacon never tasted so good!

Taco Braid

Taco Braid

1 teaspoon active dry yeast

2 tablespoons sugar, divided

3/4 cup warm water (110° to 115°), divided

2 tablespoons butter, softened

2 tablespoons nonfat dry milk powder

1 egg, lightly beaten

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 cups all-purpose flour

FILLING:

1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)

1/4 cup sliced fresh mushrooms

1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce

2 tablespoons taco seasoning

1 egg, lightly beaten

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup sliced ripe olives

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and 1 teaspoon sugar in 1/2 cup water; let stand for 5 minutes. Add the butter, milk powder, egg, salt, remaining sugar and water and 1-1/2 cups flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.  Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to greased top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.  In a large skillet, cook beef and mushrooms over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in tomato sauce and taco seasoning. Set aside 1 tablespoon beaten egg. Stir remaining egg into beef mixture. Cool completely.  Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; roll into a 15-in. x 12-in. rectangle. Place on a greased baking sheet. Spread filling lengthwise down center third of rectangle. Sprinkle with cheese and olives.  On each long side, cut 1-in.-wide strips about 2-1/2 in. into center. Starting at one end, fold alternating strips at an angle across filling. Pinch ends to seal and tuck under. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.  Brush with reserved egg. Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan to a wire rack to cool. Yield: 12-16 servings.

You can use 1 1/2 cans of crescent rolls instead of making your own dough.  Lay the three blocks of dough next to each other and pinch up all the perforations to make a single sheet of dough.

Taco Meatloaf

Taco Meatloaf

 

3 eggs, lightly beaten

2 cups picante sauce, divided

1 can (16 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (11 ounces) Mexicorn, drained

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cans (2-1/4 ounces each) sliced ripe olives, drained

3/4 cup dry bread crumbs

1 envelope taco seasoning

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

2 pounds ground beef

2 cups (8 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese

Additional picante sauce, optional

 

In a large bowl, combine the eggs, 1/2 cup picante sauce, beans, corn, onion, olives, bread crumbs, taco seasoning, cumin and chili powder. Crumble beef over mixture and mix well.  Pat into two ungreased 9-in. x 5-in. loaf pans. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 50-55 minutes or until no pink remains and a meat thermometer reads 160°.  Spoon remaining picante sauce over each meat loaf; sprinkle with cheese. Bake 10-15 minutes longer or until cheese is melted. Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with additional picante sauce if desired. Yield: 2 meat loaves (6 servings each).

Sour Cream Casserole Hot Dish

Sour Cream Casserole Hot Dish

1 lb. lean ground beef

12 oz. egg noodles

8 oz. sour cream

8 oz. cream cheese

4 oz. grated sharp cheddar cheese

2 cans tomato sauce

1 bunch green onions

 

Brown ground beef, season to taste with garlic salt and/or pepper, and drain fat. Add tomato sauce and simmer while you cook the noodles according to package instructions. Mix the sour cream and cream cheese. Chop up onion and add all chopped onion minus a handful of green top to the sour cream/cream cheese mixture. Rinse and dry noodles. Layer a 13×9 pan with half of each: noodles, hamburger, & then sour cream/cream cheese/onion mixture. Repeat. Top off the layers with the grated cheddar cheese and for style and color, sprinkle the handful of chopped green onion top. Cover & bake to heat through and melt cheddar at 350 degrees. Serve with salad/bread/cold beverage. And a dish from Aunt Sunny would not be complete without parsley garnish.

15 Minute Hamburger Stroganoff

15 Minute Hamburger Stroganoff

1 lb. hamburger

8 to 10 oz. bag wide egg noodles

1 can cream of mushroom soup

3 T.p. sour cream

2 T.p. chopped onion

Salt and pepper

1 sm. can sliced mushrooms (optional)

 

Brown hamburger with chopped onion, salt and pepper, browning meat to taste. Drain off drippings.

While meat is browning, boil water for cooking egg noodles. Salt water, if desired. Cook noodles to desired tenderness. Drain off water. Add to drained hamburger mixture 1 can cream of mushroom soup and 3 T. sour cream. Stir over medium heat. Add can of drained mushrooms. Heat thoroughly. Add hamburger mixture to drained noodles or serve hamburger mixture over noodles.

Lamb Ragu with Mint

Lamb Ragu with Mint

Lamb Ragu with Mint

1 lb. rigatoni pasta

2 T. olive oil

2 shallots, chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 1/2 lb. ground lamb

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 C. red wine

4 C. marinara sauce, store-bought or home made

1/2 C. fresh mint leaves, torn

1/2 C. ricotta cheese

 

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain pasta. Meanwhile, in a large skillet warm the olive oil over high heat. Add the shallots and the garlic and cook until tender, about 3 minutes. Add the ground lamb, salt, and pepper. Cook until the lamb has browned and the juices have evaporated. Add the wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan using a wooden spoon. Simmer until the wine has reduced by half. Add the marinara sauce and simmer over low heat until the flavors have blended, about 10 minutes. Add the mint and ricotta and stir until mixed. Add the pasta and stir to coat. Serve immediately.

 

Giada’s Homemade Marinara Sauce:  1/2 C. extra-virgin olive oil , 2 small onions, finely chopped , 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped , 2 stalks celery, finely chopped , 2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped , 1/2 tsp. sea salt , 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper , 2 (32-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes, 2 dried bay leaves In a large casserole pot, heat the oil over a medium-high flame. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until the onions are translucent, about 10 minutes. Add the celery, carrots, and 1/2 tsp. of each salt and pepper. Sauté until all the vegetables are soft, about 10 minutes. Add the tomatoes and bay leaves, and simmer uncovered over low heat until the sauce thickens, about 1 hour. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Season the sauce with more salt and pepper, to taste. (The sauce can be made 1 day ahead. Cool, then cover and refrigerate. Rewarm over medium heat before using.)

Ground Beef Flautas

Ground Beef Flautas

2 lbs ground beef

1 tsp. Salt

2 T. Chili powder

2 T. Paprika

1 tsp. Cumin

1 tsp. Garlic powder or 2 cloves

1/2 diced Bell pepper

1/2 diced medium Onion

12 corn tortillas

 

In 2 quart sauce pan add ground beef, salt, chili powder, garlic, cumin, paprika. Enough water to cover meat. Bring to a boil. Simmer over medium low heat about an hour. Then add 1/2 medium chopped onion, 1/2 medium chopped bell pepper continue cooking 20 or 30 more minutes. For beef flautas: Heat oil in skillet. Cook corn tortillas, one at a time, in hot oil until soft, about 5 to 10 seconds; drain. Strain liquid, then spoon 1 T. of the beef meat in center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla around the beef filling into flute shape. Use toothpicks to hold the tortilla in the flute shape. Fry beef flautas approximately 2-3 minutes or until tortilla holds its shape. Remove the toothpicks and serve 2-3 flautas on a plate.

Belize Beef on Spiced Potatoes

Belize Beef on Spiced Potatoes

1 pound ground beef round

1 can (14-1/2 oz.) zesty diced tomatoes, undrained

1-1/2 tsp. jarred minced garlic

1 tsp. Caribbean jerk seasoning

2 large unpeeled baking potatoes, such as russets (8 to 10 oz. each)

 Salt, pepper and Caribbean jerk seasoning

 

Topping:

1/2 C. plain yogurt

3/4 tsp. jarred minced garlic

1/2 tsp. Caribbean jerk seasoning

 

Brown ground beef in large nonstick skillet over medium heat 8 to 10 minutes or until beef is not pink, breaking up into small crumbles. Pour off drippings. Reserve 1 T. diced tomatoes. Add remaining tomatoes with liquid, 1-1/2 tsp. garlic and 1 tsp. jerk seasoning to beef; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Uncover skillet; continue simmering 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.  Meanwhile cut potatoes lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices; pierce in several places with a fork. Dip in cold water; sprinkle lightly with salt, pepper and jerk seasoning. Place in single layer on nonstick baking pan. Broil 3 to 6 inches from heat 10 to 12 minutes or until tender and lightly browned, turning once.  Combine topping ingredients and reserved 1 T. tomatoes in small bowl; season with salt and pepper. Spoon beef mixture over potatoes. Serve with topping.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 370 (85% lean ground beef)

Fat: 15g

Fiber:  

Taco Pockets

Taco Pockets

1 1/3 lb. ground sirloin or ground turkey breast

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1 T. (a palmful) ground cumin

1 T., (a palmful) dark chili powder

1 tsp. cayenne pepper sauce

1 tsp. (1/3 palmful) coarse salt,

1 T. (1 turn around the pan) vegetable oil,

4(12-inch diameter) soft flour tortillas

1 C. mild taco sauce

1 heart of romaine lettuce, shredded

2 small plum tomatoes, seeded and chopped

2 C. shredded monterey jack

Accompaniments:

Cut fresh seasonal vegetable pieces and strips

Assorted organic tortillas like blue corn, red corn or black bean

Prepared mild salsa, for dipping chips and vegetables, recipe follows

 

Combine ground meat with onion, garlic, spices, and salt and form 4 patties. Pan fry patties in 1 T. oil over medium high heat for 7 minutes on each side. To make a taco pocket, blister a flour tortilla on a hot griddle pan for 30 seconds on each side. Place tortilla on dinner plate and spread surface with 1 /4 C. mild taco sauce. Pile shredded lettuce, tomatoes and a handful of cheese in center of tortilla. Top veggies and cheese with cooked taco burger patty and wrap tortilla up and over patty on all four sides. Turn square pouch over and cut from corner to corner, making 2 taco pockets that will not crumble and drip like traditional tacos. Serve taco pockets with cut fresh seasonal veggies, assorted tortilla chips and mild salsa for dipping.

Homemade Beefaroni

Homemade Beefaroni

 

1 lb. ground beef

2 14.5 oz cans tomato sauce

1/2 C. grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 C. water

1 T. sugar

1 t. each garlic powder, salt and Italian seasoning

1/4 t. black pepper

1 lb. cooked pasta (I used the new Barilla piccolini ziti, because of it’s closeness in shape to the traditional beefaroni noodles, but any shape would be fine.)

 

Brown ground beef in a sauce pan and drain. Stir in remaining ingredients, except the pasta. Simmer for about 10 minutes, to let the flavors combine. Stir in the pasta until coated. Enjoy!

Taco Muffins

Taco Muffins

1 pound ground beef

3/4 C. water

1 envelope taco seasoing

1/4 C. butter, softened

1/4 C. sugar

1 egg

1-3/4 C. all-purpose flour

4 tsp. baking powder

1/4 tsp. baking soda

1/4 tsp. salt

1 C. buttermilk

1 C. salsa

1 C. (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese

 

In a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Add water and taco seasoning; simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes. Cool.  In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg. Combine dry ingredients; add to the creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, beating well after each addition. Fold in meat mixture.  Fill greased muffin C. two-thirds full. Bake at 425° for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Carefully remove muffins to a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Top each with salsa and cheese. Bake 5 minutes longer or until the cheese is melted. Yield: about 16 muffins. To serve Taco Muffins as an appetizer, bake in miniature muffin C., reducing the baking time, and have your guests top their own servings with salsa and cheese.

Easy & Creamy Italian Skillet Dinner

Easy & Creamy Italian Skillet Dinner

1/2 lb. ground beef

1/2 onion, diced

1/2 green pepper, diced

1 t. salt

1 t. garlic powder

1 T. Italian seasoning

1 80z. can tomato sauce

1 15oz. can diced tomatoes

1 16oz. container ricotta cheese

1/2 lb. pasta, cooked and drained (I used bowtie pasta)

1 C. mozzarella cheese, shredded

 

In a large skillet, cook ground beef with onions and green pepper. Season with salt, garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Drain when browned. Add tomato sauce and diced tomatoes to skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in ricotta cheese until combined. Stir in pasta. Sprinkle cheese on top, cover and remove from heat. Let sit for 5 minutes, until cheese is melted. Serve and enjoy. This is super Stolen Moments friendly. After step 2, place in refrigerator. Warm over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle with cheese once warmed and serve.

Beef Triangles with Chutney Sauce

Beef Triangles with Chutney Sauce

1/2 C. plain low-fat yogurt
1/2 C. mango chutney
1 lb. ground chuck
1/2 C. chopped onion
1/3 C. dried currants
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp. ground red pepper
1/8 tsp. black pepper
1/2 C. water
1 T. cornstarch
15 sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed
Butter-flavored vegetable cooking spray

Combine yogurt and mango chutney in a bowl; stir well, and set chutney sauce aside. Cook meat and onion in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until browned, stirring to crumble. Drain meat mixture in a colander; wipe drippings from skillet with a paper towel. Return meat mixture to skillet. Add currants and next 6 ingredients (currants through black pepper); stir well. Combine water and cornstarch; stir well, and add to the meat mixture. Cook over medium heat 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; set aside. Working with 1 phyllo sheet at a time, cut each sheet lengthwise into 4 (3 1/2-inch-wide) strips; lightly coat strips with cooking spray (cover remaining phyllo dough to keep it from drying out). Stack 2 strips, and spoon about 1 T. meat mixture onto one end of each stack. Fold the left bottom corner over mixture, forming a triangle; keep folding back and forth into a triangle to end of strip. Place triangles, seam sides down, on a baking sheet; lightly coat with cooking spray. Bake at 400� for 12 minutes or until golden. Serve warm with chutney sauce.

Yield: 30 appetizers
Serving size: 1 triangle and 1 1/2 tsp. sauce

Calories: 82
Fat: 3g
Fiber: 0g

Chipotle Tamale Pie

Chipotle Tamale Pie

1 3/4 C. chopped onion
3/4 C. chopped green bell pepper
3/4 lb. ground round
1/2 C. bottled salsa
1 to 2 T. bottled chipotle sauce (such as La Preferidia) or hot sauce
1 (15 1/2-oz.) can pinto beans in zesty sauce (such as S&W), undrained
1 (14.5-oz.) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes, drained
3/4 C. chopped fresh cilantro, divided
1 C. all-purpose flour
3/4 C. yellow cornmeal
2 T. sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
2/3 C. 1% low-fat milk
1 1/2 T. butter, melted
1 large egg, lightly beaten

Preheat oven to 400�. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and beef; cook 5 minutes or until meat is browned, stirring to crumble. Stir in the salsa, chipotle sauce, beans, and tomatoes; cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in 1/2 C. cilantro. Spoon beef mixture into a 3-quart casserole. Lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring C.; level with a knife. Combine flour and next 4 ingredients (flour through salt) in a large bowl. Add 1/4 C. cilantro, milk, butter, and egg; stir until well-blended. Spoon the batter over beef mixture; spread evenly. Bake at 400� for 35 minutes or until golden.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 329
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 5.8g

Meatballs in Saffron-Almond Sauce

Meatballs in Saffron-Almond Sauce

3 slices whole-grain bread, divided
1/2 lb. ground round
1/2 lb. ground turkey
2 T. chopped onion
2 T. chopped fresh parsley
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg
1 clove garlic, minced
1 large egg, lightly beaten
cooking spray
1/4 C. blanched almonds, toasted
1/2 C. dry white wine
1/2 tsp. crushed saffron threads
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/8 tsp. ground cloves
2 cloves garlic
1 (14.5 oz.) can no-salt-added beef broth
Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place 2 bread slices in a food processor; process 30 seconds or until crumbs are fine. Combine the breadcrumbs, beef, and next 8 ingredients (beef through egg) in a bowl. Shape mixture into 24 (1-inch) meatballs. Place meatballs on a broiler pan coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350 degrees for 17 minutes or until browned. Combine 1 bread slice, almonds, and next 6 ingredients (almonds through garlic) in a food processor, and process until smooth. Spoon mixture into a skillet; add broth, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add meatballs; reduce heat, and simmer, uncovered, 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle with parsley, if desired.

Yield: 8 servings
Serving size: 3 meatballs and 2 tablespoons sauce

Calories: 162
Fat: 7.9g
Fiber: 1g

Individual Sicilian Meat Loaves

Individual Sicilian Meat Loaves

1 beaten egg

1 14-ounce jar garlic and onion pasta sauce (1-3/4 C.)

1/4 C. seasoned fine dry bread crumbs

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

12 ounces ground beef

2 ounces mozzarella cheese

4 thin slices prosciutto or cooked ham (about 2 ounces)

1 9-ounce package refrigerated plain or spinach fettuccine

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. In a medium bowl beat egg with a whisk. Stir in 1/4 C. of the pasta sauce, the fine dry bread crumbs, salt, and pepper. Add ground beef; mix well.  Cut mozzarella cheese into four logs, each measuring approximately 2 1/4×3/4×1/2 inches. Wrap a slice of prosciutto or ham around each cheese log. Shape one-fourth of the ground beef mixture around each cheese log to form a loaf. Flatten each meat loaf to 1-1/2 inch thickness. Place the four meat loaves in a shallow baking pan.  Bake loaves about 20 minutes or until meat is done (160 degrees F).*  Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions. In a small saucepan heat remaining pasta sauce over medium heat until bubbly.  Arrange meat loaves over hot cooked pasta. Spoon sauce over top. Makes 4 servings.  *NOTE: The internal color of a meat loaf is not a reliable doneness indicator. A beef or pork loaf cooked to 160 degrees F is safe, regardless of color. To measure the doneness of a meat loaf, insert an instant-read thermometer into the center of the loaf.

Savory Garlic Stir-Fried Bok Choy with Juicy Ground Meat

Savory Garlic Stir-Fried Bok Choy with Juicy Ground Meat

Savory Garlic Stir-Fried Bok Choy with Juicy Ground Meat

 

1 lb bok choy, chopped (separate stems and leaves)

8 oz ground pork or ground chicken

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

2 tablespoons soy sauce

 

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground meat (pork or chicken) to the skillet and cook, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan with the meat. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Add the bok choy stems to the skillet first, as they take longer to cook. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Add the bok choy leaves to the skillet and stir well to combine. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, until the leaves wilt and the bok choy is tender. Pour in the soy sauce, stir to combine, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy your savory stir-fried bok choy with ground meat over rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Mega Meatball Pizza

Mega Meatball Pizza

1 pizza dough, store bought or from your favorite pizza shop

A palm full all-purpose flour or cornmeal

Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling, plus 2 T. – 2 turns of the pan

2 T. finely chopped rosemary leaves, a couple of sprigs

Coarse salt

1 1/2 lb. ground sirloin

1 medium onion, finely chopped

4 to 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped

Black pepper

1 (6-oz.) can tomato paste

1/2 C. grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

A handful flat-leaf parsley, chopped

1 tsp. dried oregano

3/4 lb. fresh mozzarella or brick mozzarella, your choice, sliced or grated

 

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. On a round pizza stone or pan or on a rectangular baking sheet, using flour or cornmeal to dust the dough, spread out the dough to form your crust. If you are using a baking sheet, drizzle pan with extra-virgin olive oil then set crust in place. Poke the pizza dough in several areas with the tines of a fork. Drizzle the dough with extra-virgin olive oil then season it with finely chopped rosemary and a little salt. Place in oven 10 minutes. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add 2 T. extra-virgin olive oil, 2 turns of the pan, then the meat. Brown and crumble meat a couple of minutes, then add onions and garlic. Season the meat with salt and pepper then work in the tomato paste using the back of a wooden spoon to combine. Stir in the cheese, parsley and oregano. Remove pizza crust from oven and top with meat. Arrange cheese over the pizza, working to edges. Return the pizza to the oven and bake until cheese is golden, another 10 to 12 minutes.

Smoky Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

Smoky Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

3 large Idaho potatoes, peeled and cubed

Coarse salt

2 T. EVOO – extra-virgin olive oil – 2 turns of the pan

1/4 lb. smoky bacon or turkey bacon, chopped

1 1/3 lb. ground turkey breast

1 T. smoked paprika, available in small cans on spice aisle of market (You may substitute 1 1/2 tsp. each sweet paprika and cumin combined)

Coarse black pepper

2 T., 5 or 6 sprigs, fresh thyme leaves

1 medium onion, chopped

2 carrots, peeled and diced

3 ribs celery from the heart, chopped

1 small red bell pepper, seeded and chopped

2 C. frozen peas

2 T. all-purpose flour

2 C. chicken broth

1 C. sour cream, divided

3 T. butter

1 large egg, beaten

10 to 12 blades fresh chives, chopped or snipped

Bring a medium pot of water to a boil, salt it, and cook the potatoes until tender, 12 to 15 minutes. Heat a deep, large skillet over medium-high heat. Add EVOO, 2 turns of the pan, to the skillet. Add bacon and brown it up, then add ground turkey to the pan and break it up. Season the turkey with smoked paprika, salt and pepper and thyme. When turkey browns up, add: onions, carrots, celery. Season the veggies with salt and pepper. Cook 5 minutes, then add red pepper and peas cook another 2 minutes. Stir in flour and cook flour 2 minutes. Whisk in broth and combine. Add 1/2 C. of sour cream and combine. Simmer mixture over low heat. Preheat your broiler to high. When potatoes are tender, add a ladle of cooking water to the egg. Drain potatoes and return to the warm pot to dry them out a little. Add remaining 1/2 C. sour cream, butter, half of the chives, and salt and pepper. Smash and mash the potatoes, mashing in the beaten, tempered egg. If the potatoes are too tight, mix in a splash of milk. Pour turkey mixture into a medium casserole dish. Top turkey with an even layer of smashed potatoes and place casserole 5 inches from hot broiler. Broil the potatoes until golden at edges and remove the casserole from the oven. Garnish the casserole with the remaining chives and a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Variation: Omit potatoes, peas and egg. Swap 2 lb. ground lamb or sirloin for the turkey, beef stock for the chicken stock and add 1/2 lb. wide egg noodles. Serve the goulash over the cooked egg noodles dressed with the butter and chives.

Hawaii Burgers

Hawaii Burgers

2 lbs ground turkey breast

1/2 tsp. ground ginger

2 T. low sodium soy sauce

2 garlic cloves

2 green onions, chopped

1/2 C. Hoisin sauce

2 tsp. Sesame oil

1 cored fresh Pineapple, cut into rings

 

Mix turkey with ginger, soy sauce, garlic and onions. Form into patties and cook for 5 minutes on each side on grill. As burgers cook, baste with hoisin mixed with sesame oil. Grill pineapple rings alongside burgers. Place burgers on buns and top with grilled pineapple rings and lettuce.

Turkey Loco Burgers with Chunky Guacamole

Turkey Loco Burgers with Chunky Guacamole

1 lb. ground turkey

1 tsp. Ground cumin

1-2 T. chopped fresh oregano (a handful of leaves)

1/4 onion, grated

1 lime, juice of

 Hot pepper sauce (to taste or a few shakes)

 Coarse salt

 Cracked black pepper

4 crusty rolls, split

 Romaine lettuce leaves

Chunky Guacamole

2 avocados, peeled and pitted

1/4 medium Spanish onion, grated

1 jalapeno pepper, minced (or serrano)

 Coarse salt

1 plum tomato, seeded and diced

 

In a bowl, combine the turkey and the next 7 ingredients. Form mixture into 4 patties and grill over medium-high heat for 6 minutes on each side. While the burgers are cooking, mash the avocados with the onion, chile pepper, salt, and tomato—leave it chunky. Place each burger on a bun and pile it with chunky guacamole and a piece of romaine.

Pot-Sticker Pockets

Pot-Sticker Pockets

1 1/2 lb. ground pork

1/2 C. water chestnuts

2 green onions, chopped

3 T. Soy Sauce

1″ piece fresh Ginger, grated

2 cloves Garlic, minced

Pinch Crushed Red Pepper

1/2 orange

8 flour tortillas

2 tsp. Honey

1/4 C. white Vinegar

1 cucumber, seeded, peeled, thinly sliced

1/2 carrot, shredded

Hoisin Sauce

Bibb lettuce

 

Combine pork and next 7 ingredients in bowl. Form into patties and cook 5 minutes per side on grill pan or on a grill over medium-high heat. Baste with hoisin sauce as they cook.  Mix honey and vinegar. Coat cuke and carrot with mixture.  Thinly slice Bibb lettuce into shreds. Heat tortilla 15 seconds per side on a dry pan over high heat. Paint tortilla with hoisin. Place lettuce in center and top with some carrot and cucumber. Add pork patty and fold up sides to form a square. Cut across diagonal to form triangle pockets.

Wild Mushroom Manicotti

Wild Mushroom Manicotti

1/2-ounce dried porcini mushrooms
6 large manicotti shells
Olive oil spray
1/2 pound lean ground turkey, or lean ground beef
4 cloves garlic, crushed
1 small onion, finely sliced
4 ounces jarred roasted red bell peppers, chopped
1/2 low-fat ricotta cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon course black pepper
Tomato Sauce, recipe follows
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan

Preheat oven 350 degrees F. In a small bowl, cover dried mushrooms with hot water; set aside to soak for 30 minutes. After mushrooms have soaked, drain them, and coarsely chop. Meanwhile, prepare manicotti shells according to package directions, drain, and cool. Lightly spray an 8 by 8-inch baking pan with olive oil; set aside. Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat, and spray pan with olive oil as it is heating. Add ground turkey and brown, breaking it up to cook evenly. Drain fat from pan. Add garlic and onions and cook until onions are translucent, about 3 minutes. Add mushrooms and continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes. Add roasted peppers and cook for about 2 minutes. Turn off the heat, and stir in the ricotta. Add salt and pepper, to taste. Transfer turkey mixture to a large resealable plastic bag. Pipe the filling into the cooled manicotti shells. Place the manicotti shells in the prepared baking dish. Top with tomato sauce and then sprinkle Parmesan over top. Fill the cooled pasta shells with the turkey mixture and Parmesan. Bake for 25 minutes. Serve immediately.

Tomato Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 1/2 cups prepared tomato sauce

Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, onion, and dried oregano, and saute until onion is translucent. Add tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Remove from the heat and pour over the prepared stuffed manicotti shells.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories 252
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 2

Texas Jo Casserole

Texas Jo Casserole

8 oz Ground 90% lean turkey or Beef
1/2 c Chopped onion
1/2 c Frozen whole kernel corn
1/2 c (2.5 oz) sliced mushrooms, drained
1/4 c (1 oz) sliced ripe olives
1 1/2 c Hot cooked rotini, rinsed & drained
1 cn (10 3/4 oz) Healthy Request Tomato soup
1/2 c Chunky salsa
1 T Brown Sugar Twin
1/3 c (1.5 oz) shredded Kraft Reduced-Fat Cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350F. Spray an 8×8 baking dish with butter-flavored cooking spray. In a large skillet sprayed with butter-flavored cooking spray, brown meat and onion. stir in corn, mushrooms, olives, and rotini pasta. Add tomato soup, salsa, Brown Sugar Twin, and Cheddar cheese. Mix well to combine. Spread mixture into prepared baking dish. Bake 30 minutes. Place baking dish on a wire rack and let set 5 minutes.
Cut into 4 servings.

HINT: 1 cup uncooked rotini pasta usually cooks to about 1 1/2 cups. Also good topped with 1 T fat-free sour cream.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 293
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 5g

Easy Salisbury Steak

Easy Salisbury Steak

1 pound lean ground beef
1/3 C. finely chopped onion
1/4 C. saltine cracker crumbs
1 slightly beaten egg white
2 T. 1 percent milk
1 T. prepared horseradish
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
1 (12-ounce) jar mushroom gravy (or beef gravy and 4 oz. mushrooms)

Combine beef, onion, cracker crumbs, egg white, milk, horseradish, salt and pepper; mix lightly but thoroughly. Shape into four oval 1/2-inch-thick patties. Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Cook patties 7 to 8 minutes or until centers are no longer pink; turn once. Remove from skillet and keep warm. Add gravy to skillet; heat through. Serve steaks with gravy.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 258
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 1g

Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf

Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf

1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 pound ground turkey breast
3/4 C. soft bread crumbs (whole-wheat or white)
2 egg whites
1 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper

1 C. sliced baby portabella or other mushrooms
1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
2/3 C. shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. garlic powder

3 T. ketchup
1/3 C. shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, combine beef, turkey, crumbs, egg whites, salt and pepper; mix well. Separately, combine mushrooms, spinach, 2/3 C. mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, salt and garlic powder; mix well and set aside. Place meat mixture on waxed paper and shape into 14-by-10-inch rectangle. Spread filling over beef, leaving 3/4-inch border around edges. Using the wax paper to steady the mixture, start at short end and roll in jelly roll fashion. Press mixture over filling at both ends to seal. Place seam side down on rack in roasting pan. Bake 1 hour. Spread ketchup and remaining cheese over loaf; return to oven and continue baking 15 minutes or until it is no longer pink and internal temperature is 160 degrees. Sprinkle with additional Italian seasoning if desired. Cut into slices and serve.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 198
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 2g

Devilish Horseradish Burgers

Devilish Horseradish Burgers

1/3 C. fat-free sour cream
1 1/2 T. prepared horseradish
2 tsp. ketchup

1 1/4 pounds lean ground beef
1 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 T. prepared horseradish

Heat grill. For the sauce: In a small bowl, combine sour cream, horseradish and ketchup; mix well. Set aside. For the burgers: In a large bowl, combine beef, pepper and salt. Form into 4 patties about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick (don’t compact patties or handle longer than necessary). Spread burgers with the 1 1/2 T. prepared horseradish. Grill uncovered over high heat 1 minute per side. Move to medium heat and cook 4 or 5 more minutes per side for medium. Serve with dollops of Rosy Horseradish Sauce.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 273
Fat: 13g
Fiber: 1g

Cheesy Beef and Macaroni

Cheesy Beef and Macaroni

1 (14-ounce) package light macaroni and cheese dinner
1 pound lean ground beef
3/4 C. ketchup
2 T. prepared mustard
1 C. chopped tomato
Chopped dill pickles for garnish

Prepare macaroni and cheese dinner according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef 8 to 10 minutes or until no longer pink; drain well. Stir in ketchup and mustard; heat through. Spoon prepared macaroni and cheese onto a platter; top with beef mixture. Top with tomato and pickles. Serve immediately.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 274
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g

Bold ‘n’ Saucy Cheeseburger

Bold ‘n’ Saucy Cheeseburger

1 lb. extra lean ground beef
1/4 C. A.1. Bold & Spicy Steak Sauce, divided
4 slices red onion
4 Kraft 2% Milk Singles
4 whole wheat hamburger buns, split
4 slices tomato

Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Mix meat and 2 T. of the steak sauce in medium bowl. Shape into 4 (1/2-inch-thick) patties. Spray both sides of onion slices with cooking spray and set aside. GRILL patties 4 min. on each side or until cooked through, adding onions to the grill after 2 min. and cooking until crisp-tender. Top the burgers with the 2% Milk Singles and continue grilling until the 2% Milk Singles are melted. Place burgers on bottom halves of buns. Top evenly with remaining 2 T. steak sauce. Cover with onions, tomatoes and top halves of buns.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 340
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2g

Ground Beef One Pan Dinner

Ground Beef One Pan Dinner

2 C. water
1 bay leaf
1 beef stock cube
1 clove garlic, crushed
1/2 tsp. dried tarragon
1/2 tsp. dried thyme
31/2 oz. brown rice, uncooked
1 T. parsley, finely chopped
2 T. tomato paste
7 oz. cabbage, finely shredded
1 T. polyunsaturated oil
2 carrots, shredded
17 1/2 oz. lean ground beef
1 onion, large, finely sliced
3 T. shallots or chives, finely chopped

Shred cabbage and carrots; put to one side. Place oil in a large skillet and stir-fry garlic and onion over low heat until golden. Add beef and stir-fry until brown. Season with beef cube, bay leaf, thyme, tarragon, parsley and chives. Add rice, water and tomato paste. Reduce heat, cover and simmer over low heat for 30 minutes. Add cabbage and carrots to rice and stir fry just to mix and slightly soften. Serve immediately.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 245
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 3g

Herbed Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce

Herbed Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce

1 T. unsalted butter

1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped

1 small celery stalk, finely chopped

1 lb. ground turkey

1 C. fine fresh bread crumbs

1 egg

2 T. chopped fresh oregano

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper

2/3 C. fresh orange juice

1 C. fresh or frozen cranberries

1/4 C. sugar

Preheat an oven to 425°F. Lightly oil a rimmed baking sheet. In a large fry pan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the onion and celery and sauté until softened, 4 to 5 minutes. Spoon into a bowl and let cool. Set the pan aside. Add the turkey, bread crumbs, egg, oregano, salt and pepper to the cooled onion mixture, and mix gently but thoroughly with your hands. Shape the mixture into 12 meatballs and arrange on the prepared baking sheet. Bake the meatballs until opaque throughout, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, combine the orange juice, cranberries and sugar in the fry pan and place over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring often, until the juice comes to a boil and the cranberries begin to pop, 2 to 3 minutes. Divide the meatballs among dinner plates, spoon the cranberry sauce over them and serve immediately.

Garlic Avocado Burger with Horseradish Mustard

Garlic Avocado Burger with Horseradish Mustard

1 lb. ground sirloin

2 large cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp. Tabasco sauce

1 T. Worcestershire sauce

Salt and pepper to taste

2-3 slices sharp cheddar cheese

2-3 slices Muenster cheese

2 or three hamburger buns, toasted the on grill

Sliced avocado

Sliced baby dill pickles

Horseradish mustard (recipe follows)

 

Combine ground sirloin, garlic, Tabasco, Worcestershire, salt and pepper in a bowl and mix well. Form into 2-3 larger patties and place on grill. For medium burgers, grill for 4 minutes at 500 degrees then flip burgers and turn down the heat to 275 degrees for about 3 or 4 more minutes. Turn the grill off and add the cheese to the tops of the burgers. Cover the grill and let cheese melt for about 1 minute, then remove burgers. Place buttered buns on the grill to let toast while cheese is melting on the burgers. Remove burgers and buns from the grill and assemble burgers with horseradish mustard, avocado, pickles, and serve.

  

 

Horseradish Mustard

 

1 T. horseradish

2 T. Dijon mustard

 

In a small bowl mix horseradish and Dijon mustard. Spread on burgers or chicken to add a kick to your meat.

 

Unstuffed Cabbage Skillet

Unstuffed Cabbage Skillet

3/4 lb. extra lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 pkt. Good Seasons Zesty Italian Salad Dressing Mix
1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
8 C. shredded cabbage (about 1 lb.)
1 C. water
1 C. Minute Brown Rice, uncooked

Brown meat and onion with dressing packet in large skillet or Dutch oven on medium-high heat 4 to 6 minutes or until meat is cooked through. Add tomatoes and cabbage; stir. Reduce heat to simmer; cover tightly. Cook 20 to 25 minutes or until cabbage is tender. Stir in water and rice; bring to boil. Cover; reduce heat and cook 5 minutes. Remove from heat; stir and cover. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 310
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 8g

Easy Meatloaves

Easy Meatloaves

Mix 2 lb. lean ground beef, 1 cup water and 2 beaten eggs and mix & match your recipe from these options …

Stove Top Stuffing Mix Sauce (divided use) Seasonings
Chicken 1/2 cup  Barbecue Sauce 1/2 cup chopped onion
Cornbread 3/4 cup  Salsa 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
Savory Herbs 1 jar (14 oz.) spaghetti sauce 2 cloves garlic, minced
Mushroom & Onion 1 jar (12 oz.) mushroom gravy 1 cup chopped mushrooms
 

Preheatoven to 400�F. Mix ground beef, water, eggs, 1 pkg. (6 oz.) Stove Top Stuffing Mix, 1/4 cup of the sauce and the seasonings. Shape meat mixture into 4 oval loaves on foil-covered baking sheet; top with remaining sauce. Bake 30 min. or until loaves are no longer pink in the centers.

 
  Chicken Cornbread Savory Herbs Mushroom & Onion
Servings 8 8 8 8
Calories 300 280 300 290
Fat 11g 11g 12g 12g
Fiber 1g 1g 1g 1g
Zucchini Skillet Lasagna

Zucchini Skillet Lasagna

1 lb. ground beef
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 C. yellow onion, diced
1 C. cottage cheese, creamed
1 large egg
1 T. dried parsley
1 T. parmesan/romano cheese
1 T. Italian seasoning
1 lb. zucchini slices
8 oz. Hunt’s tomato sauce
16 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese

Mix cottage cheese, egg, dried parsley flakes, 1 T. dry Parmesean/Romano cheese mixture. Slice 1 lb. zucchini in 1/8″ slices. In large skillet cook ground beef and onion till all pink in meat is gone and onion is clear. Add 1 clove minced garlic, stir in Hunt’s tomato sauce. Heat through. Place zucchini slices over ground meat mixture. Cover zucchini slices with cottage cheese mixture. Cover and cook on medium heat till zucchini is fork tender and most of liquid is cooked off. About 45 minutes. It may be necessary to cook for a while without lid. Turn off heat and cover with shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover a few minutes till cheese is melted.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 314
Fat: 21g
Fiber: 2g

Pioneer Beans

Pioneer Beans

1 lb. ground beef
1/4 lb. sliced bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 C.)
1 15-oz. can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 15-oz. can butter beans, rinsed and drained
1 15-oz. can pork and beans in tomato sauce
1 C. catsup
1/2 C. packed brown sugar
1/4 C. molasses
1 T. vinegar
1 T. prepared mustard

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, chopped bacon, and onion until meat is no longer pink and the onion is tender. Drain off the fat. Stir in the drained kidney beans and butter beans, undrained pork and beans, catsup, brown sugar, molasses, vinegar, and mustard. Transfer the mixture to a 2- 2 1/2-quart casserole. Cover and bake in a 350�F oven for 30 minutes. Uncover casserole; bake for 30 minutes more.

Crockery cooker directions. Prepare beans as directed, except transfer meat and bean mixture to a 3 1/2to 4-quart electric crockery cooker. Cover and cook on low heat setting for 5 to 6 hours, or on high heat setting for 2 1/2 to 3 hours.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 256
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 4g