Showing posts with label ground beef. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ground beef. Show all posts

Thursday, December 11, 2025

The Viral Lasagna Soup Everyone’s Making — A Cozy Winter Comfort Food (Perfect for Christmas Eve)

 

This viral lasagna soup is a cozy winter comfort food made in one pot and packed with classic lasagna flavor. Perfect for cold nights, family dinners, or Christmas Eve.




The Viral Lasagna Soup Everyone’s Making — And Why It’s Perfect for Christmas Eve


When the weather turns cold and comfort food cravings hit, this viral lasagna soup is exactly what you want simmering on the stove.  If you’ve been on social media at all lately, you’ve seen the viral lasagna soup taking over everyone’s feeds — and for good reason. It’s cozy, cheesy, and packed with all the flavor you love in traditional lasagna, but without the hours of prep and baking. One pot, a handful of simple ingredients, and a few minutes later, you have a steaming bowl of comfort that tastes like it belongs at a family dinner table. 

This year, I’m putting a holiday twist on this internet favorite. Imagine serving a warm, twirly bowl of lasagna soup on Christmas Eve — something that feels festive and indulgent, yet keeps your kitchen stress-free. It’s also perfect for busy evenings, casual family gatherings, or even a quiet, cozy night at home with your loved ones. The aroma alone will make your house feel like all cozy and warm, and the cheesy, meaty, tomato-rich broth guarantees smiles all around.

And the best part? This viral soup is ridiculously easy to make, but it looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. With every bite, you’ll get the nostalgia of traditional lasagna without the heavy lift, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser and a recipe you’ll want to keep on your rotation. Trust me — once you try it, this lasagna soup will become your new holiday and winter tradition.








What Ingredients Do I Need?

  • Ground Sirloin – Adds a rich, beefy flavor and keeps the soup hearty and filling.
  • Ground Italian Sausage – Brings seasoning, depth, and the classic lasagna flavor you expect.
  • Yellow Onion – Builds a savory base and adds natural sweetness as it cooks.
  • Garlic – Essential for that warm, aromatic flavor that ties the whole soup together.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Intensify the tomato flavor and add a subtle tangy richness.
  • Red Pepper Flakes – Add a touch of heat you can scale up or down to taste.
  • Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that gives the soup its familiar lasagna essence.
  • Salt & Pepper – Balance, enhance, and bring out all the savory flavors.
  • Crushed Tomatoes – The main body of the broth, giving the soup its rich tomato base.
  • Tomato Paste – Deepens the flavor and thickens the broth slightly.
  • Red Wine – Adds boldness and complexity (and cooks off!), but can be swapped if needed.
  • Beef Broth – Forms the savory liquid base and keeps the soup hearty.
  • Lasagna Noodles – Broken into pieces for that fun, twirly “lasagna-in-a-bowl” effect.
  • Ricotta Cheese – Creates that creamy, classic lasagna topping when dolloped onto the soup.
  • Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty, nutty flavor that melts beautifully into the hot broth.



Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

  • Ground Sirloin → Use ground turkey, ground chicken, or extra sausage.
  • Italian Sausage → Replace with mild or spicy sausage, or use all ground beef if preferred.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes → Skip them or swap in a spoonful of tomato pesto for added depth.
  • Red Wine → Replace with beef broth, chicken broth, or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
  • Beef Broth → Chicken broth or vegetable broth both work in a pinch.
  • Lasagna Noodles → Any short pasta like rigatoni, rotini, mafalda, or broken fettuccine.
  • Ricotta Topping → Swap for cottage cheese blended smooth or use a dollop of mascarpone.

Variations

  • Creamy Lasagna Soup – Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a rich, silky broth.
  • Veggie-Loaded Version – Add mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to bulk it up and make it extra hearty.






Kitchen Notes & Tips

  • Break the noodles into large pieces so they mimic real lasagna layers and don’t overcook too quickly.
  • Cook the noodles right in the soup for maximum flavor — they soak up all that tomato-rich broth.
  • Taste as you go, especially after simmering — soups need seasoning adjustments at the end.
  • Use a Dutch oven or heavy pot to help the soup simmer evenly without scorching.
  • Let the ricotta topping sit for a few minutes before serving so the flavors meld.
  • Add extra broth if your soup thickens too much; the noodles continue to absorb liquid as it rests.
  • Top with chopped parsley, or basil for a little garnish.







HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.






    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     




















Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Supper in Spain (Sorta) – Easy Garlic Tomato Meatballs for Any Night

Bring the bold flavors of Spain to your kitchen with this easy albondigas recipe—juicy Spanish meatballs in a garlic tomato sauce, ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a spring weeknight dinner!



Supper in Spain (Sorta) – Easy Garlic Tomato Meatballs for Any Night


There’s something about a cozy tapas bar that makes you feel like you’ve been whisked away to a hidden corner of Spain. We recently ducked into one on a whim—and let me tell you, it was the albondigas, or Spanish meatballs, that completely stole the show. Tender, juicy, and swimming in the most garlicky tomato sauce I’ve ever tasted, they were the kind of dish that made us pause mid-bite and say, “Okay, we have to try making this at home.”

So here we are—with this easy, spring-friendly version of Spanish meatballs in garlic tomato sauce, perfect for a relaxed weeknight dinner. They’re simple to prep, big on flavor, and the simmered sauce gets a little lift from white wine, paprika, and cumin. Pair with crusty bread, a crisp salad, or even some roasted potatoes for a full-on tapas-inspired meal at home. Trust me: one bite of these meatballs, and you’ll be dreaming of Spanish sunsets too.

I made my meatballs a little bigger than the tiny ones you'd typically find in a small tapas dish—a bit more satisfying for dinner. I served them over rice, which soaked up all that rich, garlicky tomato sauce beautifully. But honestly, they’re super versatile: you can serve them just as they are for a lighter bite, or pair them with pasta, quinoa, salad greens, or warm crusty bread for scooping. No matter how you plate them, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that feels a little extra special.

Enjoy!





What Ingredients do I need?

🛒 Basic Shopping List

Produce:

  • Garlic
  • Yellow onion
  • Fresh parsley

Meat & Dairy:

  • Ground beef
  • Egg
  • Milk

Pantry:

  • Breadcrumbs
  • Crushed tomatoes (canned)
  • Dry white wine
  • Olive oil
  • Paprika
  • Cumin
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Optional Serving Ideas (Choose Your Favorites!):

  • White or brown rice
  • Pasta
  • Crusty bread
  • Salad greens
  • Roasted potatoes




Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

Missing an ingredient or want to switch things up? Here are a few simple swaps that work beautifully in this recipe:

  • Ground Beef: Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground for a lighter or vegetarian version.

  • Milk: Any unsweetened milk will work here—dairy or non-dairy (like almond, oat, or soy).

  • Breadcrumbs: Panko, crushed crackers, or even cooked quinoa can be used if you’re out of traditional breadcrumbs.

  • White Wine: No wine? No problem. Swap with low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth for a similar depth of flavor.

  • Paprika: Use either smoked paprika or regular paprika.  Even a pinch of chili powder will still give great flavor.

  • Cumin: You can leave it out if needed, or replace it with a pinch of ground coriander or even a little extra paprika for warmth.

  • Crushed Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes (with a quick blend) or tomato sauce can be used in a pinch.

Variations

Want to put your own spin on these Spanish-inspired meatballs? Here are a few tasty ideas to try:

  • Mini Tapas-Style Meatballs: Roll the meatballs smaller (about 1 tablespoon each) for a more traditional tapas feel—perfect for party platters or appetizers.

  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili to the tomato sauce for some heat.

  • Cheesy Twist: Mix in some grated Manchego or Parmesan into the meat mixture for extra savory flavor.

  • Herb Swap: No parsley? Try fresh cilantro or basil for a slightly different herbal note.

  • Stuffed Meatballs: Place a small cube of cheese (like mozzarella or Spanish Mahón) in the center of each meatball for a gooey, melty surprise.

  • One-Pot Option: Instead of baking, brown the meatballs directly in the skillet, then pour in the sauce and simmer—less cleanup, same great taste.

  • Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or chopped zucchini to the sauce for a veggie-packed version.





Kitchen Tips and Notes

  • Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining your meatball mixture, use your hands and mix gently. Overworking the meat can make the meatballs dense instead of tender.

  • Uniform Size = Even Cooking: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion your meatballs evenly so they bake at the same rate.

  • Make Ahead Friendly: You can prep the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. You can even freeze them (raw or cooked) for future meals.

  • Deglaze with Wine: After sautéing the onions and garlic for the sauce, the wine helps lift all the flavorful bits off the pan—don’t skip this step if you’re using wine!

  • Adjust Seasoning at the End: Once the sauce has simmered and the meatballs have absorbed the flavors, give it a final taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.

  • Serving Sauce Matters: Spoon extra garlic tomato sauce over the top when serving—don’t let any of it go to waste!

  • Leftovers Reheat Well: These meatballs make delicious leftovers! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze in portions for a future easy meal.




💬 Let’s Chat!

Have you ever tried Spanish albondigas at a tapas bar—or made your own at home? I’d love to hear how you serve your meatballs! Do you go the traditional route with small bites and crusty bread, or lean into a cozy bowl over rice or pasta like I did? Drop your thoughts in the comments below or tag me on Instagram @sliceofsouthern-let’s swap ideas!



HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.


    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     
















Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Guilt-Free Cheeseburger Bowls – Classic Comfort with a Fresh Twist

All the burger joy—none of the bun drama.



Guilt-Free Cheeseburger Bowls – Classic Comfort with a Fresh Twist 


Some nights, you just need a cheeseburger—but not necessarily the heaviness that comes with it. That’s where these Guilt-Free Cheeseburger Bowls come in. They’ve become one of my favorite go-to dinners when I’m craving something hearty, nostalgic, and full of flavor, but still want to keep things light and fresh. Think seasoned lean ground beef, crisp romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy baby pickles, sharp cheddar, and just the right hit of red onion. And let’s not forget the special sauce—tangy, creamy, and completely addictive. It’s everything you love about a cheeseburger, all layered up in one satisfying bowl.

All the burger joy—none of the bun drama. That’s the motto around here when these bowls hit the table. They're super quick to throw together (especially on busy weeknights) and easy to make your own. I’ve tried them with turkey, added avocado, even swapped the cheddar for pepper jack when I wanted a little kick. No matter how you build it, this bowl delivers big comfort with a fresh twist—and honestly, it just might become your new favorite way to do burger night.

Enjoy!






What Ingredients do I need?

Before you dive into making these delicious Guilt-Free Cheeseburger Bowls, here's a handy shopping list to get you started. I've organized everything by category to make your grocery run a breeze:

Produce

  • Yellow onion
  • Romaine lettuce
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Baby dill pickles
  • Red onion (for topping)

Meat

  • Lean ground beef

Dairy

  • Shredded cheddar cheese

Pantry Staples

  • Canola oil
  • Ketchup
  • Mayo
  • Mustard
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt




Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Guilt-Free Cheeseburger Bowl recipe is how flexible it is. If you're missing an ingredient or want to make a swap to suit your tastes, no worries! Here are a few simple substitutions you can try:

Substitutions

  • Meat:  Try ground turkey or chicken – For a leaner option or Plant-based ground "beef" – If you're going for a vegetarian or vegan version.
  • Cheese:  Pepper jack – For a little extra spice.  Mozzarella – For a milder, gooey texture.  Dairy-free cheese – If you’re following a dairy-free diet.
  • Sauce:  Greek yogurt – In place of mayo for a creamier, tangier sauce.  BBQ sauce – Swap out ketchup and mustard for a smoky, sweet flavor.  Hot sauce – Add a kick to the sauce if you like things spicy!
  • Veggies:  Spinach or mixed greens – If you're out of romaine or want a different leafy base.  Cucumbers – For an extra crunch instead of pickles.  Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats for an extra satisfying touch.


Variations

While this Guilt-Free Cheeseburger Bowl is already packed with flavor, there are plenty of ways to change it up and make it your own. Here are a few variations to try depending on your mood or what’s in your pantry:

  • Tex-Mex Cheeseburger Bowl:  Swap the romaine lettuce for shredded iceberg for extra crunch. Add black beans, corn, and a dollop of sour cream for a Tex-Mex twist. Top with a sprinkle of jalapeños or guacamole for added flavor.
  • BBQ Cheeseburger Bowl:  Replace the special sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor. Add a handful of crispy fried onions or bacon bits for some extra texture and indulgence. Throw in some grilled corn or a few slices of avocado to round out the bowl.





Kitchen Tips and Notes

  • Don’t Overcook the Meat:  It's important to avoid overcooking the ground beef. Overcooking can make it dry and tough, so be sure to cook it until it’s no longer pink, but still juicy. Keep an eye on it and break it up as it cooks, making sure it stays tender and flavorful.
  • Season Your Meat Well:  Make sure to season the ground beef with enough salt and pepper as it cooks. The seasoning will bring out the flavor and make your bowls extra tasty. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for a little extra depth of flavor.
  • Meal Prep-Friendly:  These bowls are perfect for meal prepping! You can cook the ground beef and sauce in advance, then portion everything into containers. When you're ready to eat, just top with fresh lettuce, veggies, and your special sauce. Keeping the lettuce and sauce separate will ensure everything stays crisp and fresh. It’s a great way to have healthy lunches or dinners ready for the week!




HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.






Guilt-Free Cheeseburger Bowls


serves 4


1 lb lean ground beef
1 Tablespoon canola oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 small yellow onion, small dice
6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
12 baby dill pickles
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Thinly sliced red onion (for topping)
1 Tablespoon ketchup
2 Tablespoons mayo
1 1/2 teaspoons mustard
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the canola oil and allow it to heat up. Add the ground beef and salt, then cook for 7-9 minutes, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink.

While the beef cooks, divide the romaine lettuce among 4 bowls. Top each with a quarter of the cherry tomatoes, pickles, shredded cheddar, and cooked beef mixture. Add a few red onion slices if using.

In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, mayo, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Drizzle the special sauce over the bowls and serve!



adapted from WW Easy Everyday Cooking

























Wednesday, April 16, 2025

One-Pan Nacho Explosion – Bold Flavors, Big Cheesy Energy!


Bring the party to your pan – melty, meaty, and made to share! 




One-Pan Nacho Explosion – Bold Flavors, Big Cheesy Energy!




Get ready to fire up your taste buds with One-Pan Nacho Explosion – Bold Flavors, Big Cheesy Energy! This crowd-pleasing dish layers crispy tortilla chips with juicy taco-seasoned ground beef, melty cheddar and Monterey Jack, and all your favorite toppings—like tangy pickled jalapeños, fresh grape tomatoes, creamy sour cream, and zesty lime wedges. It’s a flavor-packed, no-fuss recipe that’s perfect for game nights, family dinners, or anytime you need a fast and festive meal. Best of all? It’s all done on one pan, so cleanup is a breeze!

Whether you're serving it straight from the pan for a laid-back dinner or piling it high on plates for a weekend hangout, this nacho recipe is endlessly customizable. Swap in shredded chicken or black beans for a twist, or add some salsa or a drizzle of hot sauce to turn up the flavor. However you top it, this cheesy, crunchy masterpiece is guaranteed to disappear fast—so don’t be surprised if everyone’s asking for seconds (or thirds).

Enjoy!





What Ingredients do I need?

Produce

  • Yellow onion
  • Garlic
  • Grape tomatoes
  • Lime
  • Avocado (optional, for topping)

Meat

  • Ground beef

Dairy

  • Sharp cheddar cheese
  • Monterey Jack cheese
  • Sour cream

Pantry

  • Olive oil
  • Taco seasoning
  • Tortilla chips
  • Pickled jalapeño slices



Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

  • Ground beef → Ground turkey, ground chicken, or plant-based crumbles

  • Want to skip meat? → Use black beans, pinto beans, or lentils for a vegetarian version

  • Cheddar & Monterey Jack Pepper Jack for a spicier kick, or mozzarella for a milder melt
  • Tortilla chips Blue corn chips, sweet potato chips, or even pita chips for a twist

  • Grape tomatoes → Diced roma tomatoes or salsa

  • Avocado → Guacamole or a squeeze of avocado crema

  • Pickled jalapeños → Fresh jalapeño slices, banana peppers, or hot sauce

Variations

  • Taco Night Twist:  Use taco shells instead of chips—break them into big chunks and layer like nachos.  Add refried beans or a layer of queso for extra indulgence.
  • Veggie-Packed Nachos:  Swap beef for black beans, corn, and sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms.  Top with shredded lettuce, diced red onion, and a drizzle of avocado lime crema.
  • Spicy Southwest Nachos:  Add chipotle chili powder or chopped green chiles to the beef.  Top with hot salsa, sliced jalapeños, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.




Kitchen Tips and Notes

  • Use a sturdy chip – Thin chips tend to get soggy or break under all that cheesy goodness. Go for thick-cut tortilla chips or ones labeled “restaurant style.
  • Don’t overbake – You just want to melt the cheese (about 8–10 minutes). Overbaking can dry out the chips or make the toppings bitter.

  • Layer for maximum flavor – Create at least two layers of chips + meat + cheese to make sure every bite gets love.

  • Shred your own cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Shredding it fresh gives you a gooier, meltier result.

  • Mix cheeses for balance – Cheddar gives sharp flavor, and Monterey Jack melts beautifully!

  • Add fresh toppings after baking – Think tomatoes, avocado, jalapeños, sour cream, and lime. It keeps things vibrant and prevents sogginess.




HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.




One-Pan Nacho Explosion 


Serves: 4


1 Tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup yellow onion, small dice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
2 teaspoons taco seasoning
3 cups tortilla chips
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
1/2 lime, cut into wedges
1 8 oz container sour cream - for topping
1 jar pickled jalapeño slices - for topping

    Preheat oven to 350°F.
    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions until tender, then add the garlic and ground beef. Cook for 5-8 minutes, then season with the taco seasoning. Cook until the outside is no longer pink.
    Spread the chips on the baking sheet and spread the ground beef mixture evenly over the chips.
    Sprinkle the cheese over the ground beef and bake for 10 minutes, until the cheese has melted.
    Remove from the oven and top with cherry tomatoes, avocado, jalapeno, and lime wedges. Dollop with sour cream. Serve hot.















LinkWithin

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...