Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinner routine? Look no further! Ground beef is a staple ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of delicious and easy-to-make dishes. From classic tacos to hearty casseroles, we’ve got 20 flavorful ground beef recipes that are perfect for busy nights.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through our favorite ground beef recipes, each one designed to be quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or comforting, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get creative, and let’s dive into these mouthwatering recipes!
Classic Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa
Classic Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa Recipe Summary: This recipe brings together tender beef, crispy taco shells, and a fresh homemade salsa to create a flavorful and easy Mexican-inspired dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh Salsa (recipe below)
+ 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
+ 1/2 cup diced red onion
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 2 tablespoons lime juice
+ 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add diced onion and taco seasoning; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning beef mixture onto tortillas.
5. Top with Fresh Salsa (recipe below) and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Ground Beef Pasta
A hearty and comforting pasta dish that’s ready in under an hour. This one-pot wonder combines ground beef, vegetables, and pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the penne pasta, marinara sauce, frozen vegetables, and dried oregano. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. This cheesy casserole is packed with flavorful ground beef, creamy rice, and melted cheddar goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion, peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a separate pot, cook rice according to package instructions.
6. Combine cooked rice and beef mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef and Veggie Stir-Fry
This recipe is a classic Chinese-inspired stir-fry that combines tender beef with a colorful medley of vegetables, all cooked to perfection in just 15 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli and cooked beef back into the pan. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Quick Beef and Bean Chili
Get a warm and cozy meal on the table with this speedy recipe for Quick Beef and Bean Chili. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s packed with hearty beef, beans, and vegetables in a rich tomato-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, and pepper.
4. Add water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Homemade Beef Sliders with Pickles
Elevate your backyard BBQs or game-day gatherings with these tender, flavorful beef sliders topped with tangy pickles. This easy recipe yields juicy patties and a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 hamburger buns
– Pickle slices (homemade or store-bought)
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 8 patties, about 3/4 inch thick.
4. Grill patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Assemble sliders by placing a cooked patty on each bun, followed by a few pickle slices and lettuce and tomato if using.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy ground beef with aromatic spices and crunchy bell peppers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a pan until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture; stir well.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and top with shredded cheese (if using); return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Skillet
This hearty skillet dish is a classic combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory flavors, all cooked to perfection in one pan. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli florets to the pan and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the beef strips to the pan and add soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Beef and Potato Hash
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch. This recipe combines tender beef, crispy potatoes, and flavorful onions for a satisfying meal that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: paprika or chili powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes start to brown.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with paprika or chili powder if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beefy Mac and Cheese
This hearty dish combines tender beef, al dente macaroni, and a creamy cheese sauce for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and beef mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Dot top with butter and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Beef Lettuce Wraps
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional wraps! This recipe combines the bold flavors of spicy beef with crisp lettuce, crunchy veggies, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 large lettuce leaves
– 1 cup shredded carrot
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Creamy Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (5-6 minutes).
3. Add chili flakes, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil to the beef; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing a portion of the spicy beef onto a lettuce leaf, followed by shredded carrot, diced cucumber, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Drizzle with Creamy Sauce and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
A classic Russian dish that combines tender beef strips with sautéed mushrooms and a creamy sauce, served over egg noodles. This recipe is quick, easy, and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add flour, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually stir in beef broth and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens.
6. Return beef strips to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce. Serve over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef Quesadillas
Savor the flavor of Mexico with these easy-to-make Ground Beef Quesadillas, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
5. Spoon the beef mixture onto the cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted; flip and cook the other side.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Beef and Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups
A creative twist on traditional lasagna, these roll-ups combine the flavors of beef, spinach, and ricotta cheese for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 6 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add spinach and marinara sauce to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Assemble roll-ups by spreading a layer of beef mixture on each noodle, followed by a spoonful of ricotta mixture, and finishing with mozzarella cheese.
7. Place roll-ups seam-side down in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Simple Beef and Zucchini Boats
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional beef and vegetables, these zucchini boats are filled with tender ground beef and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the beef mixture and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Place zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until zucchinis are tender and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe combines the comfort of traditional shepherd’s pie with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. The result is a satisfying, filling meal perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (see note)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Transfer the meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed sweet potatoes.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the sweet potatoes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is hot and the top is golden brown.
Note: Boil or bake 2 large sweet potatoes until tender. Mash with butter and salt to taste.
Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple of any weeknight dinner repertoire. With its bold flavors and tender texture, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cabbage, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry until the cabbage is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Cornbread Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender beef, creamy cornbread, and savory flavors, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep work and simple cooking instructions, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together cornbread mix, milk, egg, and paprika.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
5. Add the browned beef, chopped onion, and garlic to the prepared baking dish.
6. Top with cornbread mixture and sprinkle with frozen corn kernels.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Easy Beef and Eggplant Skillet
Easy Beef and Eggplant Skillet
A flavorful and satisfying one-pan dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add the eggplant and onion to the skillet; cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
5. Return the beef to the skillet and add the beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the eggplant is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Black Bean Enchiladas
Elevate your Mexican-inspired dinner game with these flavorful ground beef and black bean enchiladas, smothered in a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Vegetable oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
6. Assemble enchiladas by filling tortillas with beef mixture and rolling up. Place seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Pour tomato sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 flavorful ground beef recipes! From classic tacos to hearty casseroles, and from stir-fries to skillets, there’s something for everyone. Try making homemade beef sliders with pickles, or a quick and easy beef and bean chili. For a comforting twist, go for the cheesy beef and rice casserole or beefy mac and cheese. And if you’re looking for something new, try the beef and veggie stir-fry or ground beef quesadillas. Whatever your taste buds crave, there’s a recipe here to make your weeknight dinner a hit!
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