If you think all ground beef is bland and tastes the same, you're in for a treat with this recipe.
Welcome this Seasoned Ground Beef Recipe into your rotation of simple but delicious recipes. For those of you who are watching carbs, it is keto-friendly, low-carb, and gluten-free. More than that, it's the deep flavors, that rich caramel brown color, and the intoxicating aroma that truly sets it apart from other plain ground beef recipes.
Picture it adding a kick to your taco salad, giving depth to a bolognese sauce, or being the hearty star of a comforting casserole. Simple, versatile, and downright delicious—this beef is about to make your favorite dishes taste even better.
This recipe is: Low Carb, Keto, Gluten Free, Dairy Free and Paleo
Table of Contents
9 Reasons to Love This Recipe
Here are 9 reasons why you'll love this seasoned ground beef recipe:
- Everybody wants a really good ground beef recipe. You have found it.
- Stop making bland, gray ground beef. I’ll show you how.
- Everyone in your family or friend group will love the flavor.
- It’s perfect for sloppy joes, tacos, and everything in between.
- Super-easy to make with my step-by-step instructions.
- Low-carb? You bet. And proud of it.
- Really meal-prep-friendly: portion, reheat, and enjoy at will.
- Easy to customize to your own taste preferences!
- This is a core recipe to add to your cooking arsenal.
Is Seasoned Ground Beef Low-Carb Or Keto-Friendly?
Yes, seasoned ground beef is low-carb. As for this recipe, it contains only 1.7 g net carbs per ¼ pound serving, which makes it ideal for low carb diet followers. I have a detailed article "Is Ground Beef Low Carb" curated by our certified nutritionist to dig deeper into the carb content and either one should enjoy it on a low carb diet or not.
For those on a low-carb or keto journey, seasoned ground beef is a tasty protein option. The primary ingredients – beef and the seasonings – are inherently low in carbs. There are no fillers, sugars, or carb-heavy additives in the mix.
However, a word of caution: always be mindful of the seasonings and additional ingredients you choose. While the core seasonings like garlic, onion, cumin, and cayenne can be considered keto-friendly, some store-bought mixes or sauces might contain hidden carbs. For those strictly monitoring carb intake, always check labels and, when in doubt, opt for homemade seasonings to keep things in check.
The Allure of Seasoned Ground Beef
I love beef. Let's just start there. To me, it is undeniably delicious. When simple ground beef is transformed into seasoned ground beef, it becomes the cornerstone for a multitude of dishes. Whether it's taco fillings (even those using romaine lettuce leaves), a crunchy layer on nachos, a rich element in marinara sauce, or a hearty addition to chili, this recipe will elevate any dish.
The magic lies in the seasoning – a simple yet potent mix of garlic, onion, cumin, and cayenne, creating some of the most tasty ground beef.
But what truly sets this recipe apart is just how easy it is. I'm convinced that just about anyone can achieve perfectly browned beef, and here's the secret: even if the meat turns a tad gray during cooking (this happens!) the addition of simple ground beef seasonings at the end of the cooking process will work wonders.
Whether you lean towards the smoky depth of adobo chili, the fiery punch of cayenne, or the rich warmth of chili powder, these additions ensure a beautiful golden-brown finish every single time.
What to Season Ground Beef with?
The following is the list of ground beef seasoning ideas:
- Ground beef: The star of the show. It's rich in proteins and brings a hearty texture. Depending on the fat ratio you choose, ground beef can provide varied levels of juiciness and flavor depth. An 80/20 mix is in the sweet spot for this recipe. Anything less will not release enough fat to absorb the spices.
- Olive oil: Olive oil offers a subtle, earthy undertone that complements the beef beautifully. I often use clarified butter in the place of olive oil. It adds richness and complexity to the overall flavor.
- Granulated garlic: The ground spices are the secret to making the caramel color for the ground beef. Fresh garlic simply won't absorb the fat. You'll understand why I am saying this when you make the recipe!
- Granulated onion: Much like its garlic counterpart, granulated onion offers a steady, uniform onion flavor. It melds seamlessly into the beef, enhancing its richness without overpowering the flavor profile.
- Ground cumin: This aromatic spice adds a warm, earthy dimension.
- Cayenne powder: For those who love a hint of heat. Cayenne doesn't just bring spice; it introduces a brightness that makes the beef pop. Adjust to your heat preference, but even Optional Ingredients
Try these different flavor profiles dependent on what you are cooking:
- Italian-seasoned ground beef: Add in dried oregano and basil. Omit the cayenne and substitute red pepper flakes if you like the heat. Use this seasoned ground beef for spaghetti, lasagna or bolognese.
- Mexican-seasoned ground beef: Add in ground adobo, chili powder or chipotle powder. This Mexican ground beef also loves mustard powder and a hit of oregano. Use this seasoned ground beef for tacos or nachos.
- a little can elevate the dish.
When to Season Ground Beef?
Timing is everything, especially when seasoning ground beef. The when can be as crucial as the what. Here's how to achieve browned beefy perfection:
- Early salting: About five minutes into cooking your ground beef, sprinkle in the salt. Why? Salt has the power to draw out moisture. If added too early, it can cause the meat to release liquids prematurely, potentially cooling your pan down. The result? You risk steaming your beef rather than achieving that desirable sauté. A mid-cooking salt addition strikes the balance, seasoning the meat without negatively impacting its texture.
- Late seasoning: Once your beef has rendered its fat and is fully cooked, that's your cue. It's seasoning time. This method allows the spices to mingle with the rendered fat, causing them to "bloom." Blooming refers to the process where dried spices rehydrate and intensify in flavor when introduced to moisture and heat. The outcome? Aromatic ground beef that takes on a gorgeous caramel brown hue, even if the meat has turned gray.
- Do you season ground beef before cooking? For certain dishes, and simple ground beef recipes, yes. If you're crafting burgers, meatballs, meatloaf, or other "formed" meat recipes, seasoning the beef before cooking is absolutely necessary. This helps infuse flavors deep into the meat, ensuring every bite is flavorful. However, when the goal is crumbly, perfectly browned ground beef, like in this seasoned ground beef recipe, it should always be added after the fat renders from the meat.
Adding the spices after the fat renders from the meat ensures maximum flavor while maintaining an optimal meat texture.
Seasoned Ground Beef Ingredient List
Below is the list of ingredients you'll need to make seasoned ground beef:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
- 1 tablespoon granulated onion
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne powder (or more for punched up heat)
- fresh cracked pepper
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use these simple ingredients as an alternative:
- Olive oil: Substitute with rendered bacon fat, duck fat, ghee, or clarified butter these days. When I wrote this recipe, I was cooking mainly with olive oil. I find that these other cooking fats add so much dimension to the recipe that I would never go back.
- Granulated garlic: You can use minced fresh garlic, but add it later in the cooking process so it doesn’t burn.
- Granulated onion: Substitute with finely diced onion or shallot. Add it with the ground beef for nicely browned onion bits that taste really good.
- Ground cumin: You could use ground coriander as a substitute. If you don’t have cumin, you could simply omit it.
- Cayenne powder: Substitute with chipotle powder for a smoky heat, chili powder for a well-rounded flavor, Ancho powder for a deep flavor, or smoked paprika for a sweeter, smoky flavor. This is an important ingredient for the color!
Cooking Tools Required
You'll need the following cooking tools to make seasoned ground beef recipe:
- Large heavy-bottomed pan
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board (for optional diced onion or shallot)
- Knife (for optional diced onion or shallot)
How to Make Seasoned Ground Beef: Complete Cooking Guide
Cooking Method
- Sautéing
Preparation Steps
- Gather all the tools and ingredients to make seasoned ground beef.
- Wash ground beef.
Cooking Instructions
- Add the oil to a large heavy-bottomed pan and put over high heat.
- When the oil is just starting to smoke, add the ground beef.
- Break up the ground beef with a wooden spoon and distribute evenly throughout the pan.
- Add the seasonings. Crank a healthy dose of fresh cracked pepper.
- Stir occasionally and break up any chunks of beef.
- Continue to stir and cook for approximately 15 minutes, or until the beef is browned and delicious.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Step 1: Add the ground beef to a hot, heavy bottomed pan.
Step 2: After the beef has cooked for 3-5 minutes, add the salt.
Step 3: Once the fat has rendered, add in the spice mixture.
Step 4: Stir the spice mixture into the cooked ground beef.
Step 5: You will see the beef turn a delicious golden brown as the spices bloom.
Step 6: Ensure the beef is fully cooked by breaking up any lumps.
💡 My Pro Tip
Select your pan carefully: The type of pan you use is crucial when cooking ground meats like beef or chicken. Cast iron or other heavy-duty pans are ideal because they retain heat well, ensuring even cooking. Lightweight pans can cool down quickly when cooking large amounts of meat, resulting in longer cooking times.
⏲️ Time-Saving Tips
- Break up ground beef efficiently by using a sturdy wooden spatula. Start with larger chunks and continue breaking them down as they brown.
- Opt for a heavy-bottomed pan like cast iron or stainless steel to maintain high heat. This prevents steaming and enhances flavor.
- Prepare and measure all ingredients before cooking to streamline the process.
Recipes that Love Seasoned Ground Beef
- Authentic Bolognese Sauce: Dive into a rich, meaty sauce with roots in Italian tradition. Our seasoned ground beef transforms this Bolognese into a luscious, texture-packed delight. It's pasta's best friend and your ticket to a culinary trip to Italy.
- Easy Marinara Sauce with Pepperoni: Redefine pizza night with this zesty sauce. Combining seasoned ground beef with slices of spicy pepperoni, this marinara is both hearty and irresistibly tangy. Pizza and pasta will never be the same again.
- The Best Homemade Tomato Sauce: When seasoned ground beef meets a medley of fresh tomatoes and herbs, magic happens. Perfectly balanced, this tomato sauce elevates any dish, from spaghetti to lasagna, with its depth of flavor and meaty chunks.
- Keto Taco Salad: Salad meets fiesta! With our seasoned ground beef as the star, this taco salad is not just keto-friendly but downright delicious. Zesty, meaty, and bursting with flavor, it's a guilt-free indulgence.
And for that extra punch in your taco creations, don't miss out on our Homemade Taco Seasoning. It’s the perfect blend to elevate your seasoned ground beef to the next level.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Instructions
Storage
Are you planning to devour it within the week? Seasoned ground beef maintains its delicious flavor and texture for up to seven days in the fridge. Keep in mind: retain the fat. Draining the beef, a common practice in many households, might seem like the right move initially, but when reheating occurs, it will result in really dry meat.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze your seasoned ground beef. Pack it in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. For optimal flavor, it's best enjoyed within 2-3 months.
Reheating
When it's time to reheat this beefy delight, toss it in a pan and heat over medium-high. If it's frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight. For reheating, ensure the beef is heated slowly and evenly (with all the rendered fat!), preferably in a pan over medium heat. This way, you avoid drying it out, ensuring each bite is as scrumptious as when first cooked.
Recipe Conclusion
This Seasoned Ground Beef recipe is your ticket to flavor town! With its bold spices and easy preparation, it's perfect for transforming any meal into a culinary delight. Take charge of your kitchen and whip up something extraordinary today.
Now, embrace the joy of cooking and share your culinary adventures with friends and family. Don't hesitate—seize the skillet, savor every bite, and let the flavors speak for themselves!
Please write in the comments any questions or suggestions you may have. You can also find us on Facebook or Instagram.
More Beef Recipes
Try my favorite beef recipes:
FAQs
The best way to season ground beef is with salt, pepper, and your preferred spices, either before cooking, or at the end of the process, depending on the recipe.
Season ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin for added flavor.
It is better to freeze ground beef raw for better texture and safety when thawing and cooking later.
SEASONED GROUND BEEF RECIPE
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
- 1 tablespoon granulated onion
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne powder or more for punched up heat
- fresh cracked pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Gather all the tools and ingredients to make seasoned ground beef.
- Wash ground beef.
Cooking Instructions
- Add the oil to a large heavy-bottomed pan and put over high heat.
- When the oil is just starting to smoke, add the ground beef.
- Break up the ground beef with a wooden spoon and distribute evenly throughout the pan.
- Add the seasonings. Crank a healthy dose of fresh cracked pepper.
- Stir occasionally and break up any chunks of beef.
- Continue to stir and cook for approximately 15 minutes, or until the beef is browned and delicious.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
“This website provides approximate nutrition data and information for convenience and as a courtesy only.”
Recent Low Carb Recipes:
The Ultimate Game Day Dip
Hosting a game day party? My Ultimate Game Day Dip is the perfect addition. Packed with flavor and easy to make, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.
Simple Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
These Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps are quick to make and bursting with flavor! Pulled chicken is tossed in a tangy hot sauce, wrapped in crisp lettuce, and topped with crumbled blue cheese for an easy, satisfying dish. Perfect for lunch or dinner.
Coleslaw for Pulled Pork Recipe
My Coleslaw for Pulled Pork recipe has been a favorite for over 20 years. With a creamy, tangy dressing and crunchy vegetables, it’s the ultimate sidekick to pulled pork or barbecue. Quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Is it low carb? Learn more about it:
Understanding Carbs In Guacamole: Low Carb or Keto?
Delve into the world of guacamole and its carb content—essential knowledge for low carb and keto enthusiasts. Avocado's creamy texture
What is Low Carb Diet? Carb Confusion Conquered!
Ever wondered what a Low Carb Diet really entails? I’ve broken down the basics to help you understand how reducing
Low Carb Diet for Weight Loss: Does It Actually Work?
Many studies suggest that a low carb diet can indeed be effective for weight loss. By restricting carbohydrates, the body
14 Responses
Love just how easy this is. Never made this before, but it was perfect in my tacos. So much better than taco bell.
Hi Renee:
Thank you for trying it and for sharing your thoughts. It's absolutely delicious!
Have a fantastic day in the kitchen!
Scott
That looks really good! Love the serving spoon, looks like something from Kenya.
Hi Vanessa:
The spoon is made in Kenya indeed. But the good news is that you don't need to go there to buy it. I bought it from Amazon:
https://amzn.to/2Hv58rq
Hope this helps. Have a great day!
Scott
I used this on pizza, it was great! No more bland beef for me!
I usually just wing it with ground beef but sometimes it's a little bland. I used your spice ratios last night and it was super tasty! Just pinned it to reference for next time too. Thanks.
This has become my go to seasoned beef recipe. Freezes well too so you can deforst, heat & eat on busy nights. Thanks so much for sharing this recipe.
I'll try the seasoning tonight with ground beef for dinner 🍽️
I sometimes add a little oregano. It goes well with either Italian or Mexican cuisine. Also a dash of celery seed. I put in a bay leaf while sauting.
so good
Wow loved it
Would be interested in seeing the recipe rather than sifting through this novella of bs I don't care.
Hi Anonymous! Thanks for taking the time to write and for the star rating! I just wanted to let you know that if you had taken just 1 moment at the top of the recipe, you would have seen the “jump to recipe” button created just for people who don’t want to read through the things that other readers do find helpful. Your attempt to be funny is just lost due to all the hard work that goes into making this content.
Have a great day- I know that I am!
Scott