Cooking up a storm in the kitchen is my idea of a perfect day, and this bacon ground beef recipe is a testament to that. Combining the rich flavors of bacon with the hearty texture of ground beef, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of bacon and ground beef creates a depth of flavor that’s unmatched, offering a perfect balance between smokiness and richness.
- It’s incredibly versatile, serving as a fantastic base for everything from tacos to pasta sauces.
- This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal prep time but delivering maximum taste.
- Perfect for meal prep, it freezes well and can be used in various dishes throughout the week.
- It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a reliable option for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 6 strips of bacon, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by chopping your bacon into 1-inch pieces and dicing the onion finely. Mince the garlic cloves. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon pieces and cook until they’re crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the fat behind for extra flavor.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Break it apart with your wooden spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5 minutes. The key here is not to overcrowd the pan, ensuring the beef browns nicely.
Step 4: Add the Aromatics
Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3 minutes. This step builds the flavor base of your dish.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Return the cooked bacon to the skillet with the beef and onions. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, consider using thick-cut bacon. It provides more substance and a deeper smoky taste. If you’re watching your fat intake, you can drain some of the bacon fat after cooking, but remember, fat equals flavor in this recipe. Lastly, for a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you’re cooking the onions and garlic.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Bacon Beef: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese at the end for a gooey, delicious twist.
- Bacon Beef Tacos: Use this mixture as a filling for tacos, topped with your favorite salsa and avocado.
- Spicy Bacon Beef: Add diced jalapeños or a tablespoon of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that it may not render as much fat, so you might need to add a bit more olive oil to the pan.
How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
This recipe is already pretty keto-friendly, but you can serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside low-carb vegetables to keep it within keto guidelines.
Can I freeze the cooked bacon ground beef mixture?
Yes, this mixture freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Summary
This bacon ground beef recipe is a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its rich flavors and versatile nature, it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.