Streamline your meal prep with this versatile Big Batch Cooked Ground Beef recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or stocking your freezer with ready-to-use protein! Made with 5 pounds of ground beef, flavorful sautéed onion, garlic, and a touch of optional paprika for added depth, this recipe is seasoned to perfection with salt and black pepper. Whether you’re adding a splash of beef broth for moisture or customizing the spices to fit your favorite dishes, this recipe delivers tender, savory ground beef that’s ideal for tacos, pasta sauces, casseroles, or meal prep bowls. Cooked in just 25 minutes, this make-ahead ground beef recipe saves you time and effort while keeping your meals endlessly adaptable. Store it in the fridge or freezer for effortless meals all week long!
In a large, deep skillet or stockpot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until soft and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is no longer pink.
Season the beef with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using), stirring to evenly distribute the spices.
If there is excess liquid or grease in the skillet, carefully drain it or use a spoon to remove it.
Add the water or beef broth (if using) to keep the meat moist and add flavor. Stir well.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes to let the flavors meld. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
Taste the beef and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove from heat.
Allow the cooked ground beef to cool slightly before storing it in airtight containers or zip-top freezer bags for future meals. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Calories |
5285 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 430.0 g | 551% | |
| Saturated Fat | 165.0 g | 825% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1405 mg | 468% | |
| Sodium | 6230 mg | 271% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 3.6 g | 1% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.3 g | ||
| Protein | 342.0 g | 684% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 221 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 38.0 mg | 211% | |
| Potassium | 5516 mg | 117% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.