Are you tired of throwing away leftover roast beef or wondering what to do with that extra pound of ground beef? You’re not alone! With a little creativity, those leftovers can be transformed into a delicious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. In this article, we’ll share 18 mouthwatering recipes that will make your taste buds sing and save you time in the kitchen.
From savory breakfast dishes to satisfying lunches and dinners, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix or a meal that’s easy to scale up for a crowd, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get creative with those leftovers, and discover the joy of cooking with what you already have on hand.
Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
Get ready for a flavorful twist on the classic quesadilla! This recipe combines tender beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
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, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Place a few slices of cooked beef onto half of each tortilla, followed by some shredded cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook the quesadillas in the skillet over medium heat until they’re crispy and the cheese is melted, flipping them halfway through.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that combines savory beef with flavorful rice, this recipe is a staple for any meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying Beef Fried Rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup beef strips (sirloin or ribeye work well)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked rice; stir-fry for 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Return beef to the pan and add soy sauce. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until everything is well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a quick and flavorful way to get your daily dose of vegetables and protein. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell pepper slices
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan, then add the onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
5. Add the broccoli, bell pepper, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Return the beef to the pan and stir-fry everything together for 1 minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa
Experience the flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe for Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa. Ground beef, crispy taco shells, and a vibrant salsa come together to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 taco shells
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Fresh Salsa ingredients (see below)
Fresh Salsa:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and taco seasoning to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
4. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed shell.
5. Top with Fresh Salsa and your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, diced avocado, or sour cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Potato Hash
A hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch option, Beef and Potato Hash combines tender beef with crispy potatoes and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, etc.) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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 onion and minced garlic to the skillet and continue cooking until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef mixture. Cook for 5 minutes or until the potatoes are slightly tender.
5. Transfer the skillet contents to a baking dish and top with additional seasonings if desired.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Pasta
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender beef strips with sautéed mushrooms and a rich tomato sauce, served over al dente spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened (about 3 minutes).
4. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start browning (about 5 minutes).
5. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Return beef strips to the pan; stir to coat with sauce.
7. Combine cooked spaghetti and beef-mushroom mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Bean Burritos
Satisfy your hunger with these flavorful burritos packed with tender beef, creamy beans, and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, corn kernels, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until veggies are tender.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add black beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by filling each tortilla with beef and bean mixture, cheese (if using), and sour cream (if using).
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to melt cheese and warm through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Soup
This classic comfort soup is a staple of many cuisines, and for good reason – the rich flavors and tender texture are sure to warm your belly and soul. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 1 medium cabbage, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef strips over medium-high heat until cooked through.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, beef broth, water, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes! This recipe combines the savory flavor of beef with the crunch of broccoli, all stir-fried to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender-crisp.
5. Return beef to the pan and pour in soy sauce mixture. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Beef and Egg Breakfast Scramble
A hearty breakfast scramble filled with tender beef, scrambled eggs, and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced bell peppers, onions, and garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Crack in the eggs and stir gently until scrambled.
4. Season with chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot on a plate or wrap in bread for a breakfast sandwich (optional).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful twist on classic stuffed shells. Ground beef, wilted spinach, and ricotta cheese come together to create a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, and spinach; cook until wilted.
5. Stir in ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the meat mixture and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Pour marinara sauce over the shells and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender beef with melted cheese and crunchy vegetables for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture, followed by shredded cheese and cooked rice.
6. Sprinkle paprika on top of each pepper.
7. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beef and Corn Enchiladas
This recipe combines the comfort of beef and corn with the bold flavors of enchiladas, perfect for a weeknight dinner. With tender beef, sweet corn, and creamy cheese wrapped in tortillas and baked to perfection, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can enchilada sauce (10 oz)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Brown ground beef in a skillet, breaking it up into small pieces. Drain excess fat.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in frozen corn kernels and cook until thawed.
5. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
6. Assemble enchiladas by spooning beef mixture onto a tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Onion Gravy over Mashed Potatoes
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. This recipe combines tender beef, caramelized onions, and rich gravy served atop creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, cook the sliced onions and minced garlic over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Add flour to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, then gradually add beef broth and milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and let thicken.
5. In a separate pot, boil chopped potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve the beef and onion mixture over the mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines savory beef, fluffy rice, and juicy tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, hollowed out
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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 chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each tomato with the beef-rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
6. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect combination of tender beef, nutritious lentils, and rich flavors. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef, then remove from pot.
3. Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Return beef to pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour or until lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Beef and Avocado Salad Wraps
Get ready to wrap up a flavorful meal with this refreshing salad wrap recipe! Juicy beef, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies come together to create a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked beef (such as flank steak or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 large tortilla wraps
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Your favorite dressing (such as ranch or Greek yogurt-based)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine beef, avocado, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay a tortilla wrap flat and spoon about 1/4 cup of the salad mixture onto the center of the wrap.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrap up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Beef and Sweet Potato Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines tender beef with sweet potatoes, onions, and bell peppers for a flavorful and filling meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
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 chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the diced sweet potatoes, bell peppers, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the canned tomatoes and red kidney beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover beef with these 18 flavorful recipes! From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone. Turn last night’s roast into Beef and Cheese Quesadillas or Beef Fried Rice, or get adventurous with Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa or Beef and Mushroom Pasta. And don’t forget about breakfast – try a Beef and Egg Breakfast Scramble or Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells for a satisfying morning meal. With these recipes, you’ll never look at leftovers the same way again!
