A Flavorful Italian Twist on an American Classic: Portillos Italian Beef
If you’re looking to add a bit of Italian flair to your traditional American beef dish, you can’t go wrong with Portillos Italian Beef. This classic Italian take on a classic American favorite combines hearty ground beef with the sweet and spicy flavors of Italian sausage, vegetables, and a unique blend of seasonings. The resulting dish is a savory, juicy treat that makes a great meal for family dinners or casual weekends.
INGREDIENTS
Meat
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage
Vegetables
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup white mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
Spices and Seasonings
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese for topping
PREPARATION
Step One: Brown the Beef
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef, stirring as needed to help it cook evenly. Once the beef is evenly browned, remove it from the pan and set aside.
Step Two: Sauté the Vegetables and Sausage
In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Continue to cook until the sausage is completely cooked through and the vegetables are softened.
Step Three: Add Spices and Seasonings
Add the paprika, onion powder, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir together with the meat and vegetables, then cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to bloom.
Step Four: Combine Everything and Simmer
Add the cooked ground beef back to the skillet, stirring to combine everything. Turn down the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step Five: Serve
At this point, the Italian beef is ready to be served. Sprinkle a bit of Parmesan cheese over the top and enjoy!
Conclusion
Portillos Italian Beef is a delightful twist on the classic American dish, blending hearty ground beef with the tantalizing flavor of Italian sausage, vegetables, and seasonings. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or a casual weekend meal, this dish is sure to please. Thanks to its unique blend of flavors and preparation techniques, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Mangia!