Affordable, versatile and quick to cook, ground beef is the start of some of my favorite comforting dinners. Simmer it low and slow for a classic Bolognese Sauce or a tomato-free Ragu Bianco, or make a quick meat sauce for a cheesy Baked Rigatoni. For something different, spice it up for a Hummus Bowl with Spiced Ground Beef, turn it into a savory picadillo for Canoas (Stuffed Sweet Plantains), or roll it into Vietnamese-Style Stuffed Swiss Chard Leaves. Tip: for the most flavor, brown ground beef in batches without crowding the pan, and let it sit undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring so it gets a deep, golden crust.