Ground Beef A La Donna
Ground Beef A La Donna is a hearty, savory dish featuring seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry onion, pepper, and ground beef together in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Add salt, pepper, basil, oregano, and onion soup mix to taste.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce.
- Mix all ingredients and cook for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Add stewed tomatoes and shredded cabbage.
- Cover and simmer for 20 to 45 minutes until cabbage is tender.
- Serve over rice, beans, or pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of fresh herbs like basil and oregano instead of dried. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also add other vegetables such as zucchini or carrots for added nutrition. Adjust the onion soup mix based on your taste preference; it's a great way to enhance the savory notes in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is versatile and can be served over rice, beans, or pasta for a hearty meal. For a fresh contrast, consider pairing it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. It also goes well with crusty bread to soak up the flavors. For a variation, try it with sides from other American recipes for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm the dish on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Beef A La Donna contains roughly 75 calories, with 4g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (124% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2060mg per serving (90% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen ground beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. This will help it cook evenly and avoid any texture issues. If you're pressed for time, you can also cook it directly from frozen, but it will require additional cooking time.
What can I substitute for onion soup mix?
If you don't have onion soup mix, you can create a homemade version using equal parts of dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and beef bouillon powder. This will replicate the flavor without the added preservatives found in store-bought mixes.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives such as lentils, chickpeas, or crumbled tofu. Additionally, increase the amount of vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers to create a filling and satisfying vegetarian version.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).