Ground Beef Recipe

Gather all ingredients. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Measure seasonings and optional add-ins so they are ready.

Heat pan

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom.

Cook onions and garlic

Add the chopped onion to the hot pan and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant, stirring to avoid burning.

Brown the beef

Add 1 pound ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break the meat into large pieces. Let the beef sit undisturbed for 1–2 minutes so some surface browning forms, then continue breaking and stirring for 4–6 minutes until mostly browned.

Season and finish

Sprinkle 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano over the beef. Stir to combine. Add 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce and, if using, 1 tablespoon tomato paste. Stir the tomato paste into the meat and cook for 1 minute to deepen flavor.

Simmer (optional)

If you want a slightly saucier or more cohesive mixture, pour in 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth, scrape up any browned bits from the pan, and simmer for 2–3 minutes until liquid reduces and coats the meat.

Finish

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using.

Serve hot as a filling for tacos, over rice or pasta, in sandwiches, or as a base for other recipes. Cool to room temperature before storing leftovers.

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen.