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crock pot ground beef recipes

crock pot ground beef recipe

This crock pot ground beef recipe is a flavorful, hands-free meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender, slow-cooked beef simmered in a rich tomato and spice blend, it’s ideal for tacos, pasta, rice bowls, or meal prep. This dish is easy to make, budget-friendly, and freezer-friendly—making it a go-to recipe for any home cook.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients for the Crock Pot Ground Beef Recipe
  • ✅ Main Ingredients:
  • 2 lbs ground beef 85-90% lean – rich in flavor with less grease
  • 1 large onion diced – adds sweetness and depth
  • 3 garlic cloves minced – boosts savory aroma and taste
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes with juice – adds moisture and acidity
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste – thickens the sauce and enhances richness
  • 1 cup beef broth – creates a flavorful and tender texture
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – boosts umami and enhances flavor
  • 🌶️ Spices and Seasonings:
  • 1 tbsp chili powder – adds warmth and a mild kick
  • 1 tsp cumin – earthy and smoky notes
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika – enhances the smoky depth
  • 1 tsp salt – enhances overall flavor
  • ½ tsp black pepper – adds a subtle heat
  • 🥕 Optional Add-Ins:
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables corn, peas, carrots – adds color, texture, and nutrients
  • 1 can 15 oz black or kidney beans – for added protein and fiber
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper – for extra heat if you like it spicy
  • Fresh herbs parsley or cilantro – for garnish

Notes

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crock Pot Ground Beef Recipe

🌟 Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add 2 lbs of ground beef to the skillet.
  3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon.
  4. Tip: Browning the beef before slow cooking enhances the flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
  5. Drain any excess grease to avoid an oily texture.

🥘 Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In the same skillet, add:
    • 1 large onion (diced)
    • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  2. Sauté for 2-3 minutes over medium heat until the onions turn translucent and fragrant.
  3. Tip: Sautéing the aromatics before slow cooking boosts the overall flavor.

🍲 Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot

  1. Transfer the browned beef, onions, and garlic into the crock pot.
  2. Add the following ingredients:
    • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
    • 3 tbsp tomato paste
    • 1 cup beef broth
    • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  3. Sprinkle the spices over the mixture:
    • 1 tbsp chili powder
    • 1 tsp cumin
    • 1 tsp smoked paprika
    • 1 tsp salt
    • ½ tsp black pepper
  4. Optional: Add 1 cup mixed vegetables (corn, peas, carrots) or 1 can (15 oz) beans for extra texture and nutrients.
  5. Stir the mixture thoroughly to evenly distribute the ingredients and seasonings.

⏲️ Step 4: Slow Cook

  1. Cover the crock pot with the lid.
  2. Set the temperature:
    • Low Setting: Cook for 4-6 hours.
    • High Setting: Cook for 2-3 hours.
  3. Tip: Stir the mixture occasionally to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.

🔥 Step 5: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

  1. Once the cooking time is complete, give the beef mixture a good stir.
  2. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed:
    • Add more salt or pepper if desired.
    • For extra heat, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
  3. The beef should be tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

🍽️ Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serving ideas:
    • Spoon the beef mixture over rice, pasta, or baked potatoes.
    • Use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or stuffed peppers.
    • Top with shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or sour cream for added richness.
  2. Presentation tip: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.