Introducing a delightful twist on classic comfort food with our Savory Ground Beef with Baked Corn Cream recipe. This dish masterfully combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef with a silky, golden-baked corn cream topping, creating a perfect blend of texture and taste. Designed to satisfy heartier appetites while providing a comforting culinary experience, this recipe is ideal for those looking to elevate their dinner routine. Whether you’re planning a cozy family meal or a more festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and satisfyingly creamy finish. Join us as we explore how to prepare this delectable dish, highlighting its nutritional benefits and versatile adaptability to different dietary needs.
Ingredients:
For the Ground Beef:
- Ground Beef: 500g
- Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1/2 medium, chopped
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: A pinch
- Chimichurri Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Red Bell Pepper: 1/2, chopped
- Tomato: 1, diced and deseeded
- Olives: 2 tablespoons, pitted and chopped
- Parsley or Cilantro: Fresh, chopped, to taste
For the Corn Cream:
- Sweet Corn Kernels: 1 can
- Cream: 200ml (1 box)
- Salt: A pinch
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Instructions:
- Preparing the Ground Beef:
- In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until translucent.
- Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt, black pepper, chimichurri, and paprika. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
- Mix in the chopped bell pepper, diced tomato, and chopped olives, cooking until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the fresh parsley or cilantro, remove from heat, and set aside.
- Making the Corn Cream:
- In a blender, combine drained sweet corn kernels with the cream and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
- Assembling and Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a baking dish, spread the cooked ground beef evenly.
- Pour the blended corn cream over the ground beef, ensuring it covers the meat completely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the surface is lightly golden and bubbly.
- Serving:
- Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm, enjoying the creamy texture of the corn cream combined with the savory richness of the seasoned ground beef.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dish: Pair this baked dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
- Beverage: A glass of bold red wine or a light beer complements the flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Protein-Rich: Ground beef is a great source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. It helps in building and maintaining muscle mass, making this dish particularly beneficial for physically active individuals.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Red bell peppers and tomatoes add a healthy dose of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. Vitamin C boosts the immune system and acts as an antioxidant, while potassium helps regulate blood pressure. Tomatoes are also rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risks of heart disease and cancer.
- Dietary Fiber: Onions and bell peppers contribute dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. Fiber also promotes feelings of fullness, which can help in managing weight.
- Healthy Fats: The addition of cream and olives provides healthy fats, which are essential for absorbing vitamins and providing energy. Using olive oil can also contribute monounsaturated fats, known for their benefits to heart health.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: This recipe does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients, making it suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
- Contains Dairy: The inclusion of cream means this dish contains dairy. Those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy should consider using lactose-free cream or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
- High in Calories and Fats: While the dish provides beneficial nutrients, it is also high in calories and fats due to the cream and beef. It should be consumed in moderation, especially by those monitoring their caloric intake for weight management.
- Not Suitable for Vegetarians/Vegans: This recipe includes beef, which makes it unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans. However, a vegetarian version can be made by substituting ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful: The combination of chimichurri seasoning and fresh herbs with ground beef creates a deeply satisfying savory flavor.
- Comforting: The creamy corn topping adds a delightful contrast to the meat, making for a comforting and filling meal.
- Versatile: This dish is perfect for a family dinner but also special enough for entertaining guests.
This Savory Ground Beef with Baked Corn Cream offers a satisfying meal with several nutritional benefits, especially when it comes to protein and vitamins. By considering the dietary information and making appropriate adjustments, this dish can be a hearty part of a balanced diet.
