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If you are looking for a comforting, hearty dish that brings together savory flavors and a perfect balance of textures, this Mushroom Ground Beef Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. Juicy ground beef mingles with browned, earthy mushrooms and aromatic onions and garlic, all infused with a touch of Worcestershire sauce and thyme to elevate every bite. It’s simple to prepare yet full of satisfying depth, making it an absolute favorite for weeknight meals or weekend feasts alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients are the foundation of a dish that bursts with flavor and texture. Each element adds something essential—whether it’s the richness of the ground beef, the umami of the mushrooms, or the aromatic lift from fresh garlic and herbs.
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 or leaner): Provides juicy, meaty texture and protein-packed goodness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps soften the onions and mushrooms while adding a subtle fruity note.
- 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or white button), finely chopped: Adds earthy flavor and tender, juicy bits throughout the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Offers sweetness and a savory base when sautéed.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Gives aromatic punch and depth to the whole skillet.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a tangy, savory complexity that ties everything together.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Boosts the herbaceous notes with a subtle, pleasant earthiness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the individual flavors without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a mild kick and warms the palate.
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or shredded cheese: Brings fresh color or creamy richness to finish the dish.
How to Make Mushroom Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Start by warming the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced onions and let them cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn soft and fragrant. This slow softening releases their natural sweetness and forms the flavorful foundation for the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Cook Mushrooms and Garlic
Next, add the minced garlic and chopped mushrooms to the skillet. Cooking them together for 5 to 6 minutes, while stirring occasionally, allows the mushrooms to release their moisture and start to brown beautifully, creating that wonderful umami-rich aroma we all crave in a Mushroom Ground Beef Recipe.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Once the mushrooms are nicely browned, add your ground beef. Use a spatula to break the meat apart evenly. Cook the meat thoroughly for about 7 to 8 minutes until it’s no longer pink and begins to get a slight crust, sealing in juices that keep each bite tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. These seasonings balance richness and add complexity. Let the mixture simmer gently for another 2 to 3 minutes so all those flavors meld perfectly, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with depth.
Step 5: Final Touches
Remove your skillet from the heat and, if you’d like, top with freshly chopped parsley or shredded cheese. These simple garnishes provide a lively pop of color and an extra layer of flavor that makes your Mushroom Ground Beef Recipe really special.
How to Serve Mushroom Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley chopped finely adds brightness and a touch of herbal freshness, making each serving pop visually and taste-wise. For a creamy twist, sprinkle shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella—melting beautifully into the warm mixture for extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up every juicy bite, or spoon it atop steamed rice for a simple and satisfying meal. For a low-carb option, wrap it in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Mushroom Ground Beef Recipe to the next level by using it as a filling for stuffed peppers or savory crepes. You could also toss it with pasta for an easy weeknight dinner that satisfies a range of cravings with minimal fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Pack cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the meat and mushrooms. Adding a splash of beef broth or water during reheating can help keep it moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cremini or white button mushrooms are recommended for their mild flavor and texture, baby bella mushrooms work wonderfully for a richer, deeper taste. Feel free to mix mushrooms to suit your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes! The Mushroom Ground Beef Recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice if you’re following a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle. Pair it with low-carb sides like steamed vegetables or leafy greens for a balanced meal.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or crumbled tofu, and increase the amount of mushrooms for heartiness. Season as usual to keep all the rich flavors intact.
What’s the best way to add more sauce to this dish?
If you prefer a saucier texture, try adding a splash of beef broth or cream after browning the beef and before simmering. This simple addition makes the dish even more comforting and moist.
How can I prevent the mushrooms from becoming soggy?
Cooking the mushrooms separately at medium heat and allowing them to brown before adding the beef helps evaporate excess moisture. Stirring occasionally ensures they cook evenly without steaming, which keeps their texture just right.
Final Thoughts
This Mushroom Ground Beef Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like home in every bite. It’s quick, straightforward, and loaded with comforting flavors that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, give this recipe a try—you might just find your new weeknight favorite!
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Mushroom Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Mushroom Ground Beef recipe is a hearty and flavorful skillet meal featuring lean ground beef cooked with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and a blend of seasonings. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or wrapped in lettuce. The use of Worcestershire sauce and thyme adds depth, while optional garnishes like parsley or shredded cheese provide a fresh finish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 or leaner)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or white button), finely chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley
- Shredded cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to create a hot cooking surface ideal for softening the vegetables.
- Sauté onions: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until they become slightly softened and translucent, which enhances their natural sweetness.
- Add garlic and mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and chopped mushrooms. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mushrooms have released their moisture and start to brown, deepening their flavor.
- Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 7–8 minutes until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, ensuring even cooking and rich flavor.
- Season and simmer: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld together perfectly.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley or shredded cheese if desired. Serve the dish hot as a main course over your choice of sides or in wraps.
Notes
- This dish is versatile—serve over rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or in lettuce wraps.
- Adding a splash of beef broth or cream can make the dish saucier and more luxurious.
- Using baby bella mushrooms intensifies the flavor for a deeper taste experience.
- For a leaner option, choose ground beef with 85/15 fat ratio or leaner.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if adding broth or cream.
