Sweet Meets Savory: A Ground Beef and Apple Recipe That Delights

Ground beef and apples might seem like an unusual pair, but they create a harmony of flavors that’s unforgettable. This recipe brings together the rich, hearty taste of seasoned ground beef with the natural sweetness and crispness of apples.

It’s the perfect dish to bridge comfort food and culinary creativity. Every bite balances savory, sweet, and a hint of spice, making it a versatile option for dinner, meal prep, or even a cozy gathering.

The best part? It’s easy to prepare and uses pantry-friendly ingredients you likely already have. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight meal or something a little different to impress your guests, this recipe promises to satisfy cravings and spark compliments.

Turn your kitchen into a hub of delicious aromas and vibrant tastes with this unique dish that feels as comforting as it is exciting.

Easy Ground Beef and Apples Recipe

Ground beef and apples might sound like an unusual combination, but this dish proves they are a perfect match.

The savory beef pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of apples, creating a balance of flavors that’s both comforting and unique.

It’s an easy, wholesome meal you can whip up on a busy weeknight. Plus, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples.

Ingredients

For the main dish:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup beef broth or water

For optional garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

 

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Chop the onion, dice the apples, and mince the garlic. Keep everything ready before cooking to save time.

Step 2: Cook the ground beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking the meat into small pieces as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add onion and garlic

Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the empty side. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened. Mix with the beef.

Step 4: Add apples and spices

Stir in the diced apples, thyme, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, letting the apples soften slightly.

Step 5: Add broth and simmer

Pour in the beef broth or water. Stir well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes. The apples should be tender, and the flavors well blended.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to serving plates. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top if desired. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Top Tips

Use fresh apples

Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their texture holds up well during cooking.

Adjust the seasoning

For a sweeter flavor, add a pinch of brown sugar. For more heat, try red pepper flakes.

Don’t skip the broth

It helps deglaze the pan and adds depth to the dish.

Variations

Add vegetables

Mix in carrots, bell peppers, or celery for extra nutrients.

Swap the protein

Ground turkey or chicken works as a lighter alternative to beef.

Try different spices

Use smoked paprika or nutmeg for a different flavor profile.

 

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 8g

Conclusion

This ground beef and apples recipe brings together sweet and savory flavors in a dish that’s both simple and satisfying.

It’s a versatile recipe that fits into busy schedules while delivering hearty and nutritious meals. Try it out, and you might discover a new family favorite!