What to Make With Ground Beef and Onions Tonight

A simple foundation that transforms into comfort food, whether you're craving something quick or deeply satisfying.

Ground beef and onions are the quiet backbone of countless dinners—the kind of combination that doesn't need much fanfare. Together, they create a savory, umami-rich base that welcomes tomatoes and cheese like old friends. Whether you're feeding a crowd or cooking for one, these four ingredients are flexible enough to meet you wherever you are.

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Cheesy Tomato Beef Skillet

Total Time: 25 minutes • Serves: 4

A quick and satisfying one-pan dish combining seasoned ground beef with tomatoes and melted cheese for a comforting meal that's ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
Add diced tomatoes with their juice and simmer for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Reduce heat to low and sprinkle cheese evenly over the top. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted.
Serve hot and enjoy.

Quick Variations

Lighter Option

Skip the cheese or use it sparingly, and build your meal around fresh tomatoes and herbs. Serve over greens, zucchini noodles, or simply with crusty bread to keep things bright and balanced.

Hearty Option

Layer the cheese generously, add a starch like pasta or rice, and let everything meld together into something warming and substantial. This is the version that fills you up and stays with you.

Vegetarian or Flexible Option

Swap ground beef for lentils, crumbled mushrooms, or chickpeas. The caramelized onions, tomatoes, and cheese work just as beautifully with plant-based proteins, creating a satisfying meal for everyone at the table.

Simple Substitutions

Protein Substitutes

Ground turkey or chicken
Ground lamb
Italian sausage
Crumbled tofu or tempeh
Cooked lentils

Carb Substitutes

Pasta (any shape)
Rice or grain bowls
Polenta
Crusty bread
Baked potatoes or sweet potatoes

Flavor Boosters

Garlic and red pepper flakes
Fresh basil or oregano
Worcestershire or soy sauce
A splash of red wine or vinegar
Cumin and paprika for warmth

Common Questions

How do I get the most flavor from ground beef and onions?

Brown the beef thoroughly in a hot pan until it's deeply caramelized, then cook your onions low and slow until they're soft and golden. This patience builds the foundation everything else sits on.

Can I prep these ingredients ahead of time?

Absolutely. Dice your onions and have your tomatoes and cheese ready to go. You can even brown the beef and onions earlier in the day and reheat gently before finishing the dish.

What if I only have canned tomatoes?

Canned tomatoes work beautifully here—they're actually preferred for their concentrated flavor and consistency. Choose whole or crushed depending on your preference.