Ground Beef And Tomato Sauce
A hearty, flavorful ground beef and tomato sauce dish with savory vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners over mashed potatoes or noodles.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and green pepper in a skillet in margarine until soft.
- Remove onion and green pepper from the skillet.
- Brown the ground beef in the skillet and pour off the fat.
- Add the sautéed onion and green pepper back to the skillet along with salt, pepper, tomato soup, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Optionally, add catsup for a sweeter taste before serving.
- Serve the ground beef and tomato sauce over mashed potatoes or noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian herbs like oregano and basil to the beef while browning. If you want to lighten the dish, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also substitute the tomato soup with crushed tomatoes or homemade marinara sauce for a fresher taste. If you enjoy a bit of sweetness, try adding a spoonful of brown sugar along with the salt and pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ground beef and tomato sauce over creamy mashed potatoes or your favorite noodles for a comforting meal. For added texture, top with grated cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner. Consider serving with bread for dipping into the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ground beef and tomato sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, checking every minute until hot. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Beef And Tomato Sauce contains roughly 577 calories, with 10g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2347mg per serving (102% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this ground beef and tomato sauce can be prepared a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the simmering step, then let it cool before refrigerating. When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. This allows the flavors to meld nicely.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Use the same seasoning and cooking method, and mix in some finely chopped mushrooms to add texture and flavor. This will create a satisfying vegetarian meal that everyone can enjoy.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be creatively repurposed! Use them as a filling for tacos or burritos, mix with pasta for a quick casserole, or serve over rice for a different meal. You can also make a hearty soup by adding more broth or water and including additional vegetables.
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).