Please share a recipe for making a beef-based dinner for 2 people on a budget of less than $200 using foods you can buy at Walmart.

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Google Gemini Answer

One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet (Budget-Friendly)

This recipe is a one-pan wonder, meaning minimal cleanup and less time spent in the kitchen. It’s perfect for a budget-conscious weeknight meal and utilizes ingredients readily available at Walmart:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup instant brown rice
  • 1.5 cups beef broth
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
  3. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, until softened.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  5. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, instant brown rice, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
  8. (Optional) Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Tips:

  • To make this recipe vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with an equal amount of lentils or crumbled tofu.
  • You can use other vegetables in this recipe, such as corn, carrots, or zucchini.
  • To add a bit of heat, stir in a few chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Estimated Cost:

  • Ground beef: $5-$7
  • Vegetables: $2-$3
  • Canned goods: $2-$3
  • Rice: $1-$2
  • Spices: $1-$2
  • Cheese (optional): $2-$3

Total: This recipe should cost around $16-$21, leaving plenty of room within your $200 budget for other groceries.

Additional notes:

  • Prices can vary depending on location and brand. Be sure to check the “Great Value” brand at Walmart for budget-friendly options.
  • This recipe is just a suggestion, feel free to customize it to your liking and add in your favorite ingredients!

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