Cache & Cook

Quick recipes with ground beef and tomatoes

Got ground beef and tomatoes and not sure what to make? Here are 8 easy dinners you can cook tonight. Each one keeps to everyday ingredients and a single skillet or sheet pan where possible, with rough prep and cook times so you can pick by how much time you have. Prefer to cook with exactly what's on your shelf? Tell Cache & Cook what you have and it drafts a recipe free.

Common questions

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well as leaner substitutes, though they may cook slightly faster and produce less fat, so you might want to add a tablespoon of oil to the pan. The flavor will be milder, so consider adding extra garlic, herbs, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to compensate.
What's the quickest way to make a ground beef and tomato sauce?
Brown the ground beef over medium-high heat (5-7 minutes), add garlic and diced tomatoes or tomato sauce, then simmer for 10-15 minutes for a basic sauce, or use canned diced tomatoes to skip peeling and cutting fresh ones.
How long does cooked ground beef with tomatoes last in the fridge?
Store it in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months for later use.
What budget-friendly ingredients can I add to make ground beef and tomato dishes more filling?
Beans (black, kidney, or chickpeas), lentils, diced vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, and rice or pasta are all affordable ways to stretch the meat further while adding nutrition and volume.
What should I serve with ground beef and tomato sauce?
Pasta is the classic choice, but you can also serve it over rice, polenta, in tacos, on toast, stuffed in peppers, or with simple vegetables like roasted zucchini or green beans.