How to Cook Ground Beef in a CrockPot
Learning how to cook ground beef in a crockpot is a great way to do meal prep for quick and easy recipes. This method is also very convenient because it doesn’t require any attention once you’ve set it up–you can go about your day while your ground beef cooks slowly.
Plus, this cooking method tends to be cheaper than buying pre-cooked ground beef at the store. Learn how to do it here!
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how to cook ground beef in a crockpot
Everyone loves a good home-cooked meal, but sometimes it’s hard to find the time, energy, and ingredients to make a delicious dinner. That’s why using a slow cooker is such an incredible way to get dinner ready without having to stress about it!
One of my favorite ways to get dinner done quick is to cook ground beef in a crockpot – not only does it require minimal effort, but it’s also incredibly delicious! I love to use this recipe for meal prep because you can make a big batch of ground beef and then portion it out in different meals throughout the week.
Plus, it tastes great no matter what ingredients you choose to add – from onions and peppers to garlic and spices. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just for yourself, ground beef in a crockpot is a great option that’s sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
To cook ground beef in a slow cooker, you only need two simple ingredients:
- Ground Beef (I prefer at least 80/20)
- Water
Benefits of cooking with Ground Beef
Ground beef is an incredibly versatile and tasty ingredient that works great in a crockpot. Not only is ground beef easy to work with, but it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors wonderfully.
When cooked in a slow cooker, ground beef develops a unique texture and flavor that makes it the perfect main component of this recipe. The ground beef also adds plenty of protein and iron to your meal, making it a great option for anyone looking to get essential vitamins and minerals in their diet. Plus, ground beef is also an affordable ingredient which makes this dish budget-friendly!
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Health benefits of ground beef
In addition to its versatility, ground beef has many health benefits. It’s a great source of lean protein that can help build and maintain muscle. It’s also packed with iron, zinc, and B vitamins that help keep your body healthy.
Additionally, ground beef is a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids which can help reduce inflammation in the body and may even reduce the risk of certain diseases. So, not only is ground beef easy to cook with but it is perfect for a high protein diet.
Instructions
1. Break out your favorite slow cooker and give it an exciting hug – you two are going to be spending a lot of time together!
2. Thaw ground beef in the fridge or by running cold water on it until you can break apart the chunks with ease.
3. Place ground beef into slow cooker, followed by your chosen mix-ins. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!
4. Cook on low for six hours, stirring occasionally so ground beef doesn’t clump together.
5. Enjoy!
Can you put raw ground beef in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can definitely put raw ground beef in a slow cooker or crockpot! You don’t need to pre-cook the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker. Simply add your ground beef and other ingredients, then turn on the heat and let it cook slowly all day.
The slow heat of a crockpot will ensure that your ground beef is cooked through and safe to eat. You’ll be left with wonderfully tender ground beef that can be used in a variety of recipes!
How long does it take to cook ground meat in a crock pot?
For regular ground beef for any recipe, you can cook it on high for three hours or until there is no more pink in your meat. This time may vary between slow cookers so, be sure to check on your meat frequently the first time you cook it in a crock pot.
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do you have to brown ground beef before putting in crock pot?
Ground beef does not have to be browned or cooked in any way before placing it in the slow cooker. You can put raw beef straight into the crock pot for cooking.
do i need to add water to slow cook beef?
You do not have to add water to ground beef in a slow cooker but, it does keep the meat from drying out during the cooking process. It does produce some extra liquid to be drained off after cooking but, the result of tender, juicy ground beef for your recipes is absolutely worth the effort.
More Easy ground beef Recipes
Ground Beef in a Crock Pot
Cooking ground beef in a crock pot is easy and makes delicious, tender ground beef ready for your recipes or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Place raw ground beef in crock pot.
- Pour in 1/4 cup water.
- Set slow cooker to high and cook for three hours.
- Drain the excess liquid from the beef.
- Portion out to include in recipes.
Notes
You can cook ground beef in bulk this way. Simply add 1/4 cup water per pound.
I cook 7-9 lbs at a time in my large 10 qt slow cooker.
Freeze beef in freezer bags for use in recipes later.
