### Hearty Recipe for Pinto Beans with Ground Beef: A Comforting Family Favorite
#### Recipe for Pinto Beans with Ground BeefPinto beans and ground beef create a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings……
#### Recipe for Pinto Beans with Ground Beef
Pinto beans and ground beef create a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe for pinto beans with ground beef not only provides a satisfying meal but also brings together the rich flavors of spices and savory meat, making it a go-to comfort food for many.
#### Ingredients for the Recipe
To prepare this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 2 cups of dried pinto beans (or 4 cups of canned pinto beans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 2 cups of beef broth (or water)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 teaspoons of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or cilantro
#### Cooking Instructions
1. **Prepare the Pinto Beans**: If you are using dried pinto beans, rinse them under cold water and soak them overnight in a large bowl of water. This will help to soften the beans and reduce cooking time. If you’re short on time, you can opt for canned pinto beans, which are already cooked.
2. **Brown the Ground Beef**: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the ground beef over medium heat. Cook until it's browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. **Sauté the Vegetables**: Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
4. **Add the Spices**: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the spices to cook for about a minute to release their flavors.
5. **Combine Ingredients**: If using soaked dried beans, drain and rinse them before adding to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir everything together, ensuring the beans are well mixed with the beef and spices.
6. **Simmer**: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours if using dried beans, or about 30 minutes if using canned beans. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if the mixture becomes too thick.
7. **Taste and Adjust**: Once the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
8. **Serve**: Ladle the pinto beans with ground beef into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro.
#### Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This recipe for pinto beans with ground beef is not only easy to make but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option for any meal. The combination of spices adds depth and warmth, while the ground beef provides a hearty texture that complements the creamy pinto beans.
Moreover, it’s a versatile dish that can be served on its own, over rice, or even as a filling for burritos or tacos. You can also customize the heat level by adding jalapeños or hot sauce, catering to your family’s preferences.
In conclusion, this recipe for pinto beans with ground beef is a fantastic way to nourish your family with a comforting and flavorful meal. It’s perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to develop. Enjoy this dish any day of the week for a satisfying and delicious experience!