Congratulations on your purchase! Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various delicious recipes in your slow cooker. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce: Cook ground beef with onions and garlic in a skillet until browned, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Add canned tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs (like basil, oregano, and thyme), a splash of red wine (optional), and let it simmer on low for 6-8 hours. Serve over cooked pasta.
Slow Cooker Chili: Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then add it to the slow cooker with chopped onions, bell peppers, canned tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, and other seasonings you like. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hearty and comforting chili.
Slow Cooker Meatballs: Mix ground beef with breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, herbs (like parsley and oregano), an egg, and seasonings. Form meatballs and place them in the slow cooker. Add marinara sauce and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Serve with spaghetti or in a sub sandwich.
Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes: Brown the ground beef with diced onions and garlic in a skillet. Transfer it to the slow cooker and add ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and vinegar. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then serve on hamburger buns.
Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers: Cut the tops off bell peppers and remove the seeds. Stuff them with a mixture of cooked ground beef, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, and seasonings. Place the stuffed peppers in the slow cooker, add some broth or tomato sauce, and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Slow Cooker Beef Tacos: Cook ground beef with taco seasoning in a skillet, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Add some water or beef broth and let it cook on low for 3-4 hours. Serve the beef in taco shells or tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Slow Cooker Beef and Vegetable Soup: Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then add it to the slow cooker with diced vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes), canned tomatoes, beef broth, and herbs. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hearty and comforting soup.
Slow Cooker Stroganoff: Brown ground beef with onions and garlic, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Add sliced mushrooms, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and cream of mushroom soup. Cook on low for 4-6 hours and stir in sour cream before serving. Serve over egg noodles.
Feel free to customize these recipes to your taste and dietary preferences. With a slow cooker and ground beef, you can create a variety of delicious and convenient meals for yourself and your family. Enjoy cooking!