We’ve all faced those hectic days when dinner needs to be effortless yet satisfying, and that’s exactly why our Frozen Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe is a game-changer. It’s perfect for busy families looking to transform frozen ground beef into a tender mouthwatering meal without the fuss of thawing.
This slow-cooker staple draws on the crockpot’s magic to infuse flavors deeply while saving us precious time. Whether you’re a novice cook or a pro we’ll guide you through an easy process that delivers reliable results every time.
Ingredients
In our Frozen Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe, we focus on simple, high-quality ingredients that deliver a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal prep. Below, we’ve listed the ingredients in the order they’re typically added to the slow cooker, including any necessary prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- 1 pound frozen ground beef: Use directly from the freezer; no thawing required to keep things convenient and safe.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Chop finely for even cooking and to release natural sweetness early in the process.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Freshly minced for robust flavor; add after the onions for a layered taste.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes: Undrained to provide moisture and acidity; opt for low-sodium if watching salt intake.
- 1 cup beef broth: Low-sodium preferred; pour in to create a simmer base and enhance meaty flavors.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano and basil; mix in for authentic, aromatic notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste based on other ingredients; season after adding liquids for even distribution.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground for a sharper kick; incorporate with spices for balance.
- 2 medium carrots, sliced: Cut into ½-inch pieces for tenderness without overcooking.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Any color works; add towards the end of the ingredient list for retained crunch.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables: Straight from the freezer; stir in last for a nutritious, colorful boost without extra prep.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our Frozen Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe seamlessly after selecting the ingredients, we need a few key tools and equipment. These items ensure efficient assembly and cooking, making the process straightforward and enjoyable for everyone from beginners to seasoned cooks.
Essential Tools
We recommend the following essentials, listed in the order of use during preparation:
- Slow Cooker (Crockpot): Our primary tool, a 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe. It allows frozen ground beef to cook evenly without thawing, delivering tender results with minimal effort.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp chef’s knife is crucial for dicing onions, chopping bell peppers, and slicing carrots quickly and safely.
- Cutting Board: Use a sturdy cutting board (preferably wooden or plastic) to provide a stable surface for all prep work, preventing slips and ensuring hygiene.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key, so we rely on a set of measuring cups and spoons to portion out ingredients like beef broth and seasonings precisely.
- Can Opener: A manual or electric can opener simplifies opening canned diced tomatoes, saving time and reducing mess.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring ingredients in the crockpot, a heat-resistant wooden spoon or silicone spatula helps mix without scratching the pot’s surface.
By having these tools ready, we guarantee a smooth transition from prep to cooking, enhancing the overall experience of creating our flavorful Frozen Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe.
Instructions
We make preparing our Frozen Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe straightforward and foolproof, using the ingredients and tools we’ve outlined to deliver a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort.
Prepare the Frozen Ground Beef
First, we gather and prep our fresh ingredients to ensure they integrate seamlessly into the crockpot. Start by dicing 1 medium onion into even, half-inch pieces to release its sweet aroma as it cooks. Next, mince 2 cloves of garlic finely, allowing its pungent essence to infuse the dish with robust flavor. Then, slice 2 medium carrots into thin rounds for a satisfying crunch that softens perfectly during slow cooking, and chop 1 bell pepper into one-inch chunks to add a vibrant, slightly sweet contrast.
To handle the frozen ground beef, we keep it frozen as directed for safety and convenience—simply remove 1 pound from the freezer and place it in the slow cooker without thawing, ensuring it breaks apart easily as it cooks. Meanwhile, measure out 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, combining them in a small bowl for quick addition. This step sets the stage for a symphony of savory scents that will fill your kitchen.
Assemble in the Crockpot
We layer the ingredients in our 6-quart slow cooker to build depth and ensure even cooking. Begin by placing the 1 pound of frozen ground beef at the bottom, where it will start to thaw and brown gently. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped bell pepper on top, followed by 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes and 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables for a colorful, nutrient-rich mix.
Pour in 2 cups of beef broth to create a rich, simmering base that keeps everything moist and tender. Sprinkle the prepared Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly over the layers to lock in the flavors. Use a wooden spoon to gently stir once, promoting a harmonious blend without overmixing—this assembly turns simple components into a mouthwatering, one-pot wonder ready for slow cooking.
Cook the Recipe
With everything assembled, we set our slow cooker to deliver tender, juicy results with ease. Turn the cooker to low for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the frozen ground beef to cook through slowly and absorb the surrounding flavors, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you’re short on time, switch to high for 3 to 4 hours, but monitor occasionally to prevent overcooking.
| Setting | Time (hours) | Internal Temp (°F) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low | 6–8 | 160 | Ideal for deeper flavors and tenderness |
| High | 3–4 | 160 | Faster option for busy schedules |
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our frozen ground beef crockpot recipe even more convenient for busy weeknights, we can prepare components in advance, allowing us to assemble and cook with minimal effort. This approach ensures frozen ground beef retains its flavor and texture while saving us time on the day of serving.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead
We recommend prepping fresh ingredients up to 24 hours in advance to maintain their crispness and vibrancy. Follow these steps:
- Dice the onion and chop the bell pepper: Use a sharp knife to cut 1 medium onion into even dice and 1 bell pepper into ½-inch pieces. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve their fresh, crunchy texture.
- Slice the carrots and prepare garlic: Slice 2 medium carrots into ¼-inch rounds and mince 2 cloves of garlic. Place them in separate sealed bags or containers to prevent moisture loss, keeping their earthy sweetness and pungent aroma intact.
- Measure dry seasonings: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Transfer this mix to a labeled spice jar or sealed bag for quick access, ensuring balanced flavors in our crockpot dish.
Assembling the Crockpot Mixture in Advance
For ultimate ease, we can fully assemble the crockpot ingredients up to 12 hours before cooking. This method works perfectly with frozen ground beef, as it allows the flavors to meld without thawing.
- Layer ingredients in the slow cooker insert: Start by placing 1 pound of frozen ground beef at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker insert. Add the prepped onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper on top, followed by a 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes (undrained), 1 cup of beef broth, and 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over everything for a robust, savory profile.
- Cover and refrigerate: Once assembled, cover the insert with its lid and store it in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours. This step lets the ingredients marinate slightly, enhancing the hearty, comforting taste of the final meal without over-softening the beef.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If we want to extend preparation further, we can freeze the assembled mixture for up to 3 months. Here’s how:
- Freezing instructions: Wrap the covered slow cooker insert tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or transfer the contents to a freezer-safe bag. Label it with the date and cooking instructions to avoid any guesswork.
- Thawing and cooking: When ready, thaw the mixture in the refrigerator overnight. Place it back in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, monitoring until the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for safe, tender results.
By following these make-ahead strategies, we maximize the convenience of our frozen ground beef crockpot recipe, delivering a flavorful, no-fuss meal every time.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this frozen ground beef crockpot recipe to make your mealtimes effortless and delicious. It’s perfect for those hectic days when you need a reliable, hearty dish without the fuss.
We’re excited for you to try it and see how it simplifies your routine while delivering amazing flavors every time. Enjoy the freedom it brings to your kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Frozen Ground Beef Crockpot Recipe?
This recipe is a simple, convenient meal for busy families, using a slow cooker to turn frozen ground beef into a flavorful dish without thawing. It’s perfect for novice and experienced cooks, featuring easy steps and everyday ingredients for a hearty dinner.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You’ll need 1 pound of frozen ground beef, a diced medium onion, minced garlic, canned diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, sliced carrots, chopped bell pepper, and frozen mixed vegetables. These high-quality, simple components ensure great flavor with minimal prep.
Can I use frozen ground beef without thawing it?
Yes, you can add frozen ground beef directly to the slow cooker. This saves time and maintains the meat’s texture, cooking it evenly with other ingredients like onions, garlic, and vegetables for a tender result.
How long does it take to cook this recipe?
Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours in a 6-quart slow cooker. Monitor the internal temperature for safety and optimal tenderness, resulting in a delicious, ready-to-serve meal.
What tools are required for this recipe?
You’ll need a 6-quart slow cooker for even cooking, a chef’s knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, a can opener, and a wooden spoon or silicone spatula. These basics make assembly and cooking straightforward and efficient.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prep fresh ingredients like onions, garlic, carrots, and bell peppers up to 24 hours in advance. Fully assemble the crockpot mixture up to 12 hours ahead, or freeze it for up to 3 months for easy weeknight meals without thawing the beef first.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture and flavor.