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Preheat and Prepare the Beef: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the ground beef and season it with salt and pepper. Use your hands to form the beef into a large, thick patty. Then, using a spoon or your hands, create a hollow cavity in the center of the patty, being careful not to tear the beef. Leave a border of about 1/2 inch along the edges.
Prepare the Stuffing: In a medium-sized bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated cheese, chopped onion, diced bell peppers, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, and oregano. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth little by little until the mixture is moist but not soggy. If you want to add extra richness, melt butter and stir it into the stuffing mix. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Stuff the Beef: Spoon the stuffing mixture into the cavity of the ground beef patty. Gently press the stuffing into the cavity, ensuring it’s packed well but not too tightly.
Cook the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully transfer the stuffed beef patty into the skillet. Cook the beef for 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s browned and cooked through. If you prefer, you can finish the cooking in the oven by placing the skillet in the preheated oven for an additional 10-15 minutes to ensure the beef is thoroughly cooked.
Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, let the stuffed ground beef rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving: This dish can be served as a main course alongside side dishes like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. It also pairs wonderfully with a glass of red wine.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store the stuffed beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven until it’s warmed through.
Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed beef before cooking. Wrap the beef tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Variations:
Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, use a vegetarian protein such as lentils, quinoa, or crumbled tofu instead of ground beef. You can still use the same stuffing ingredients for a hearty filling.
Different Stuffing Mixes: Customize the stuffing to suit your taste. Try adding cooked sausage, mushrooms, spinach, or even a bit of cooked rice for a different texture and flavor profile.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or goat cheese to create a unique flavor combination.
FAQs:
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. Just be mindful that lean meats like turkey and chicken may require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have breadcrumbs? If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even panko for a different texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the stuffed beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook it. This makes for a great make-ahead dinner option.
How do I know when the beef is fully cooked? To ensure the beef is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. Ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
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