Please share a recipe for making a beef-based dinner for 2 people on a budget of less than $100 using foods you can buy at Walmart.

I asked AI.

Google Gemini Answer

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

This recipe is a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and minimal prep, perfect for a quick and budget-friendly meal. It utilizes affordable ingredients readily available at Walmart and is easily customizable based on personal preferences.

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add the onion and bell pepper (if using) to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, instant rice, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
5. If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the skillet and cook for an additional minute, or until melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Tips for staying on budget:

• Look for "Great Value" brand items at Walmart, which are often cheaper alternatives to national brands.
• Check the weekly circulars or app for coupons and sales before shopping.
• Consider using frozen vegetables instead of fresh, which can be equally nutritious and often more affordable.
• Adjust the amount of cheese used based on your budget. Feel free to leave it out altogether for a cheaper option.

Customization options:

• Add other vegetables like corn, diced zucchini, or chopped carrots.
• Spice things up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Top the dish with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for an extra layer of flavor.

This recipe should yield enough for 2 servings and cost around $10-$15, depending on the specific prices at your local Walmart. It's a delicious, budget-friendly, and easy-to-prepare option for a satisfying beef-based dinner.