Here are five easy dinner recipes perfect for your busy work week. These recipes are great for beginner cooks and feature delicious ground beef dishes.

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⭐️ MEXICAN RED RICE RECIPE

 • Learn how to make the perfect Mexic... 

CHALUPAS

To make chalupas, you’ll need:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 tsp light chili powder
• 1/2 tsp granulated garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 Tbsp dehydrated minced onion
• 8 flour tortillas
• Oil for frying
• Lettuce, tomato, sour cream, and cheese for garnish

CHILE RELLENO CASSEROLE

Here’s the recipe for chile relleno casserole:

• 2/3 cup self-rising flour
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp granulated onion powder
• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 4 fire-roasted poblano peppers
• 6 oz shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 1 cup seasoned ground beef (optional)
• 1 Tbsp softened butter for baking dish
• 1.5 to 2-quart baking dish

ENCHILADAS

For enchiladas, gather these ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground meat of your choice
• 2 tsp light chili powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp granulated garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp granulated onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Pepper to taste
• 14 to 16 corn tortillas
• 1/3 cup oil for softening the tortillas
• 12 oz Colby Jack cheese

CROCKPOT CALDO DE POLLO

To make crockpot caldo de pollo, you’ll need:

• 3 1/4 lbs bone-in chicken pieces
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 lb cabbage
• 2 medium to large Russet potatoes
• 2 ears of corn
• 5 small to medium carrots
• 1 to 2 Mexican squash
• 1 celery stick
• 1/2 small onion
• 2 to 3 cloves of garlic
• 1 1/2 Tbsp tomato chicken bouillon powder
• Fresh cilantro
• 1 jalapeno (optional)
• 5 to 6 cups of water
• Salt and seasonings to taste

Food Compilation

Cooking for the workweek

5 Amazing Dinner Ideas Looking for some easy dinner recipes that anyone can make during a busy work week? Look no further than Simply Mamá Cooks on YouTube! With 5 beginner-friendly recipes featuring ground beef, you’ll be able to whip up delicious meals in no time. From Chalupas to Chile Relleno Casserole, Enchiladas to Crockpot Caldo de Pollo, and even a Food Compilation, there’s something for everyone. These recipes will guide you through the cooking process step by step, from preparing the meat to assembling the final dish. And the best part? You can customize the recipes to suit your taste and serve them with your favorite sides. So why not give these easy dinner recipes a try and make your work week a whole lot tastier?

In need of some inspiration for your work week dinners? Check out the YouTube channel Simply Mamá Cooks, where you’ll find 5 easy dinner recipes that anyone can make! These recipes feature ground beef and are perfect for beginner cooks. From crispy Chalupas to flavorful Chile Relleno Casserole, cheesy Enchiladas to comforting Crockpot Caldo de Pollo, and even a Food Compilation with various dinner ideas, there’s something to satisfy every craving. With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll be able to create delicious homemade meals that will leave you feeling satisfied. So why wait? Head to Simply Mamá Cooks and start cooking up some amazing dinners for your busy work week!

5 Dinner Recipes for the Busy Work Week

Introduction to the recipes

Are you feeling overwhelmed with your busy work week? Do you struggle to find time to cook healthy and delicious meals for yourself and your family? Look no further! In this article, we will be sharing five easy dinner recipes that are perfect for busy work weeks. These recipes are beginner-friendly and use ground beef as the main ingredient. With these recipes, you can have a satisfying and nutritious meal on the table in no time!

Benefits of easy dinner recipes for busy work weeks

When you have a hectic work schedule, it can be tempting to rely on take-out or pre-packaged meals for dinner. However, this often leads to unhealthy eating habits and can take a toll on your overall well-being. By preparing your own meals with easy dinner recipes, you can take control of your health and save time and money in the process.

One of the major benefits of cooking your own meals is that you have complete control over the ingredients. This means you can choose whole foods and fresh ingredients, ensuring that you and your family are getting the nutrients you need to stay healthy and energized. Additionally, cooking at home allows you to experiment with different flavors and seasonings, creating meals that are tailored to your personal taste preferences.

Overview of the recipes featured in the video

In the Simply Mamá Cooks YouTube video, five dinner recipes were showcased. The first recipe is for Chalupas, followed by Chile Relleno Casserole, Enchiladas, Crockpot Caldo de Pollo, and a Food Compilation featuring various dinner ideas. These recipes are designed to be quick and easy, perfect for busy work weeks. Each recipe utilizes ground beef as a main ingredient, making them cost-effective and versatile.

Tips for meal planning and preparation

To make the most out of your busy work week, it’s important to plan and prepare your meals in advance. Here are some helpful tips for meal planning and preparation:

1. Create a meal plan: Take some time at the beginning of the week to plan out your meals for the upcoming days. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you have all the necessary ingredients on hand.
2. Make a grocery list: Once you have your meal plan, create a list of all the ingredients you will need. Stick to the list when you go grocery shopping to avoid impulse purchases and unnecessary expenses.
3. Prep ingredients ahead of time: To save time during the week, consider prepping ingredients in advance. This can include chopping vegetables, marinating meat, or measuring out spices.
4. Cook in batches: If possible, cook large batches of food and portion it out for multiple meals. This allows you to have leftovers for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
5. Invest in time-saving kitchen tools: Having the right tools in your kitchen can greatly expedite the cooking process. Consider investing in a slow cooker, food processor, or pressure cooker to make meal preparation a breeze.

By implementing these meal planning and preparation tips, you can save time and stress during your busy work week.

Importance of using ground beef in the recipes

Ground beef is a versatile and affordable ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. In the recipes featured in the Simply Mamá Cooks video, ground beef is the star ingredient. Here’s why ground beef is a great choice for busy work week dinners:

1. Cost-effective: Ground beef is often more affordable than other cuts of meat, making it a budget-friendly option for meal planning. By using ground beef in your recipes, you can save money without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
2. Quick-cooking: Ground beef cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Whether you’re making tacos, casseroles, or soups, ground beef can be browned and cooked through in a matter of minutes.
3. Versatile: Ground beef can be used in a wide range of dishes, from Mexican-inspired meals to Italian pasta dishes and comforting casseroles. Its neutral flavor allows it to blend well with various spices and seasonings, giving you endless options for creating delicious recipes.
4. Nutritious: Lean ground beef is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. By choosing lean varieties and incorporating plenty of vegetables and whole grains into your recipes, you can create healthy and balanced meals that will keep you nourished throughout the busy work week.

By utilizing ground beef in your meal planning, you can create a variety of flavorful and satisfying dishes that will please the whole family.

Recipe 1: Chalupas

Ingredients required

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 tsp light chili powder
• 1/2 tsp granulated garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 Tbsp dehydrated minced onion
• 8 flour tortillas
• Oil for frying
• Garnish with lettuce, tomato, sour cream, and cheese

Step-by-step instructions

1. In a preheated pan, add a little bit of cooking oil and the lean ground beef.
2. Break apart the ground beef and add the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and minced onion. Cook until the ground beef is fully cooked and well-seasoned.
3. Set the seasoned ground beef aside until you’re ready to use it.
4. To make the chalupa shells, separate the flour tortillas and fry them in preheated oil until they are a deep golden brown color and crispy.
5. Drain the chalupa shells on a baking sheet lined with paper towels.
6. To assemble the chalupas, fill each chalupa shell with a portion of the seasoned ground beef, and garnish with lettuce, tomato, sour cream, and cheese.
7. Serve the chalupas as a quick and easy dinner option for busy work weeks.

Tips for cooking seasoned ground beef

To ensure the ground beef is well-seasoned and flavorful, follow these tips:

• Break apart the ground beef as it cooks to ensure it cooks evenly and is the desired texture.
• Taste the seasoned ground beef and adjust the salt and seasonings according to your preference.
• Consider adding diced onions or bell peppers to the ground beef for added flavor and texture.

Process of frying flour tortillas into chalupa shells

To fry flour tortillas into chalupa shells, follow these steps:

1. Preheat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Take a flour tortilla and carefully add it to the hot oil. Shape the tortilla to form a chalupa shell using tongs or a slotted spoon.
3. Fry the tortilla until it is a deep golden brown color and crispy.
4. Remove the fried tortilla from the oil and let the excess oil drain off.
5. Place the fried chalupa shell on a baking sheet lined with paper towels to absorb any remaining oil.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining flour tortillas until you have the desired number of chalupa shells.

Serving suggestions and garnishes

Chalupas can be served with a variety of garnishes including:

• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheese
• Sliced avocado
• Salsa or hot sauce

Feel free to customize your chalupas with your favorite toppings and garnishes. These delicious and crispy chalupas make for a satisfying dinner that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Recipe 2: Chile Relleno Casserole

Ingredients required

• 2/3 cup self-rising flour
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp granulated onion powder
• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 4 fire-roasted poblano peppers
• 6 oz shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 1 cup seasoned ground beef (optional)
• 1 Tbsp softened butter for baking dish
• 1.5 to 2-quart baking dish

Step-by-step instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the self-rising flour, smoked paprika, and granulated onion powder.
2. Add the eggs and whole milk to the dry ingredients. Whisk vigorously to combine everything and ensure there are no lumps.
3. Chop the fire-roasted poblano peppers and set them aside.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped poblano peppers, shredded Colby Jack cheese, and seasoned ground beef (if using).
5. Grease a baking dish with softened butter to prevent sticking.
6. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Add the poblano pepper, cheese, and ground beef mixture to the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
8. Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
9. Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Utilizing leftover ground meat for the recipe

If you have leftover seasoned ground meat from another recipe, such as the Chalupas mentioned earlier, you can use it in the Chile Relleno Casserole. Simply add the leftover ground meat to the poblano pepper and cheese mixture before assembling the casserole. This helps to reduce food waste and provides additional flavor to the dish.

Preparing fire-roasted poblano peppers

To fire-roast poblano peppers, follow these steps:

1. Place the peppers directly on a gas stove burner over high heat.
2. Use tongs to turn the peppers every few minutes until all sides are blistered and charred.
3. Remove the peppers from the heat and place them in a heatproof bowl.
4. Cover the bowl tightly with cling film and let the peppers sweat for about 15 minutes.
5. After the peppers have sweat, remove the cling film and peel off the charred skin. Remove the stem and seeds from the peppers.
6. The fire-roasted poblano peppers are now ready to be used in the Chile Relleno Casserole.

Baking instructions and serving suggestions

Once the Chile Relleno Casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This casserole can be enjoyed as a main dish or paired with a side of rice or a salad for a complete meal. The creamy texture of the eggs combined with the smoky flavor of the poblano peppers and the savory ground beef make this dish a delicious and satisfying option for busy work weeks.

Recipe 3: Enchiladas

Ingredients required

• 1 lb lean ground meat of choice
• 2 tsp light chili powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp granulated garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp granulated onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Pepper to taste
• 14 to 16 corn tortillas
• 1/3 cup oil (for softening corn tortillas)
• 12 oz Colby Jack cheese

Step-by-step instructions

1. In a preheated pan, add the lean ground meat and cook until it is fully cooked.
2. Add the chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cooked ground meat. Mix well to ensure the meat is well-seasoned.
3. Set the seasoned ground meat aside until you’re ready to use it.
4. Preheat oil in a separate skillet and heat the corn tortillas individually in the hot oil for a few seconds on each side. This softens the tortillas and makes them easier to roll.
5. Place the softened corn tortillas on a paper towel to remove any excess oil.
6. To assemble the enchiladas, add a portion of the seasoned ground meat to each softened corn tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and ground meat until the baking dish is full.
8. Top the enchiladas with shredded Colby Jack cheese.
9. Bake the enchiladas in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Once cooked, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Using lean ground meat for a healthier version

To make a healthier version of the enchiladas, choose lean ground meat options such as turkey or chicken instead of beef. Lean meats are lower in fat and calories, making them a healthier choice for busy work weeks. The same seasonings can be used to add flavor to the lean ground meat, ensuring that you still have a delicious and satisfying meal.

Preparation of the corn tortillas

Corn tortillas can be tough and prone to breaking when rolled. To soften corn tortillas for enchiladas, follow these steps:

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
2. One at a time, place a corn tortilla in the hot oil and cook for a few seconds on each side until it becomes pliable.
3. Use tongs to transfer the softened tortilla to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.

By softening the corn tortillas in oil, you make them more malleable and less likely to break when rolled into enchiladas.

Baking instructions and serving suggestions

Once the enchiladas are assembled and topped with shredded cheese, they can be baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This typically takes 15 to 20 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Once cooked, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Enchiladas can be served with a variety of toppings and garnishes, such as:

• Salsa or hot sauce
• Diced avocado
• Chopped cilantro
• Sour cream
• Sliced jalapenos

Feel free to customize your enchiladas with your favorite toppings and serve them with sides such as Mexican rice or refried beans. These flavorful and cheesy enchiladas are a crowd-pleasing option for busy work weeks.

Recipe 4: Crockpot Caldo de Pollo

Ingredients required

• 3 1/4 lbs bone-in chicken pieces
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 lb cabbage
• 2 medium to large Russet potatoes
• 2 ears of corn
• 5 small to medium carrots
• 1 to 2 Mexican squash
• 1 celery stick
• 1/2 small onion
• 2 to 3 cloves of garlic
• 1 1/2 Tbsp tomato chicken bouillon powder
• Fresh cilantro
• 1 jalapeno (optional)
• 5 to 6 cups of water
• Salt and seasonings to taste

Step-by-step instructions

1. Place the bone-in chicken pieces in a slow cooker.
2. Add salt, onion powder, and garlic powder to season the chicken. Mix well to ensure the chicken is well-seasoned.
3. Prepare the vegetables by chopping the cabbage, Russet potatoes, corn ears, carrots, Mexican squash, celery, onion, and garlic cloves. Add them to the slow cooker.
4. Sprinkle the tomato chicken bouillon powder over the chicken and vegetables.
5. Add fresh cilantro and a jalapeno (optional) to enhance the flavors.
6. Pour 5 to 6 cups of water into the slow cooker, enough to cover the chicken and vegetables.
7. Cook the ingredients in the slow cooker on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors are well-developed.
8. Adjust the salt and seasonings to taste.
9. Serve the Crockpot Caldo de Pollo hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by warm tortillas or rice.

Combining chicken, vegetables, and seasonings in the slow cooker

The Crockpot Caldo de Pollo recipe combines bone-in chicken pieces with a variety of vegetables and seasonings. This allows the flavors to meld together and create a delicious and comforting soup. By using a slow cooker, you can let the ingredients simmer and develop rich flavors while you go about your busy work day.

Simmering process for developing flavors

The slow cooking process is essential in developing the flavors in the Crockpot Caldo de Pollo. By allowing the ingredients to simmer together for an extended period of time, the flavors have a chance to meld and intensify. The result is a hearty and flavorful soup that is perfect for warming up on busy work week nights.

Tips for adjusting spice level

If you prefer a spicier version of the Crockpot Caldo de Pollo, you can adjust the spice level by adding more jalapenos or using a spicier salsa or hot sauce as a garnish. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the jalapenos or use less seasoning. The beauty of this recipe is that it can be customized to suit your personal taste preferences.

Serving suggestions and accompaniments

Crockpot Caldo de Pollo can be served as a complete meal on its own, or paired with warm tortillas or rice for a more filling option. The soup can be garnished with fresh cilantro and served with lime wedges on the side to add a burst of citrus flavor. You can also customize the soup with additional toppings such as diced avocado, chopped onions, or a dollop of sour cream. This comforting and nourishing soup is the perfect option for a busy work week dinner.

Recipe 5: Food Compilation

Overview of various dinner ideas

The Simply Mamá Cooks video also features a compilation of various dinner ideas to provide even more options for busy work weeks. This portion of the video showcases different Mexican-inspired dishes that are quick and easy to prepare. Some examples include tacos, chicken soup, and enchiladas.

Recipes for different Mexican dishes

Within the food compilation, the video provides additional recipes for different Mexican dishes. These recipes include various ingredients such as ground beef or turkey, tortillas, spices, vegetables, and cheese. By following these recipes, you can create a range of flavorful and satisfying meals that will keep you fueled throughout the busy work week.

Ingredients and cooking techniques

The recipes featured in the food compilation are designed to be simple and beginner-friendly. They utilize easy-to-find ingredients and basic cooking techniques to make meal preparation a breeze. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are perfect for any skill level.

Options for customization and personal preferences

One of the highlights of the food compilation is the option for customization and personalization. The recipes provide a solid foundation, but you can add or subtract ingredients based on your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different spices, vegetables, or protein options to create a meal that is tailored to your tastes. Cooking is an art, and these recipes provide a canvas for you to express your creativity.

Garnishing and serving suggestions

The food compilation also showcases various garnishing and serving suggestions. Toppings such as lettuce, tomato, onion, salsa, and cheese can be added to enhance the flavor and presentation of the dishes. These garnishes provide an extra layer of freshness and texture, elevating the overall dining experience.

By following the recipes in the food compilation, you can expand your culinary skills and create a wide array of delicious and satisfying meals for your busy work week.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, these five dinner recipes are perfect for busy work weeks. They are easy to prepare, utilize ground beef as the main ingredient, and offer a variety of flavors and textures. By incorporating these recipes into your meal planning and preparation, you can save time, money, and stress while still enjoying delicious and nutritious meals.

The benefits of using easy dinner recipes for busy work weeks are numerous. By cooking at home, you have control over the ingredients and can ensure that you and your family are consuming healthy and balanced meals. Additionally, preparing your own meals allows you to experiment with flavors and seasonings, making each dish unique and tailored to your preferences.

The featured recipes, including Chalupas, Chile Relleno Casserole, Enchiladas, Crockpot Caldo de Pollo, and the Food Compilation, offer a variety of options to satisfy any palate. Whether you’re in the mood for crispy chalupas, cheesy enchiladas, or a comforting bowl of soup, these recipes have got you covered.

With proper meal planning and preparation, you can make cooking a breeze during your busy work week. By following the included tips, such as creating a meal plan, prepping ingredients in advance, and utilizing time-saving kitchen tools, you can streamline the cooking process and ensure that meals are ready when you need them.

Ground beef plays a crucial role in these recipes, offering affordability, versatility, and quick cooking times. Whether you choose to use lean ground beef or experiment with other varieties, ground beef provides a flavorful and satisfying base for these dishes.

So why not give these recipes a try during your next busy work week? Get creative, customize the dishes to your liking, and don’t be afraid to experiment. With these easy dinner recipes, you can have delicious and hassle-free meals that will keep you going throughout your busy work week.