In order to brown, rather than steam, the pan needs to be hot. Adding oil is optional but recommended for better browning. Add the meat to the pan and break it into large pieces. Use a wooden spoon, fish spatula, or other sturdy spatula to break the meat up into large pieces in the pan.
Can u cook ground beef without oil?
If you’re using a nonstick pan you don’t have to use oil (unless you’re using extra-lean ground beef). Cast iron and stainless steel are the best choices for getting that beautiful, brown sear. Once the pan is hot, add the meat, and use a spatula to break it up into pieces.
Can you cook ground beef with butter?
Heat the pan to just above medium, and either melt 1 Tbsp of butter in the pan or add 1 Tbsp of another fat to fry the beef in. Use your spatula to break apart any large chunks of meat. Stir occasionally. A liquid will appear in the pan; keep cooking until the water, not the oil, evaporates.
Do you have to use oil to fry ground beef?
Heat the oil in a large stainless steel or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using a nonstick pan you don’t have to use oil (unless you’re using extra-lean ground beef).
How to cook ground beef on the stove top?
In a large skillet, preferably cast iron, heat the olive oil over medium heat for about 2 minutes until hot. Add the ground beef, and using a spatula press the beef into an even, flat layer in the pan, almost like you’re making a big hamburger.
Can you use ground beef for everything?
You can use ground beef in practically everything. The trick to cooking ground beef well is to not move it around a lot until it’s finished cooking and nicely browned. This helps create a crust on the meat which is delicious. Let the beef come to room temperature on the counter for 15-20 minutes before cooking it.
How do you defrost ground beef before cooking?
Learn how to properly defrost it before you start cooking. Allow your meat to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Heat the oil in a large stainless steel or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using a nonstick pan you don’t have to use oil (unless you’re using extra-lean ground beef).
