Are you looking for delicious and affordable meal options that can please even the pickiest eaters? Look no further! Ground beef is a staple ingredient in many kitchens, and when cooked with some creativity and imagination, it can become the star of countless dishes. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and affordability of ground beef.
From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and healthy meals or a college student trying to stretch your food budget, these ground beef recipes have got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll be delving into some of our favorite dishes that feature ground beef as the main attraction. From hearty casseroles to flavorful stir-fries, we’ve got something for everyone.
Classic Beef and Bean Chili
This hearty, comforting dish is a staple of American cuisine. With its rich flavors and tender texture, this classic beef and bean chili is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Homemade Beef Tacos
Looking to elevate your taco game? This simple recipe yields tender beef tacos with rich flavors and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
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 to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Easy Beef and Rice Casserole
Easy Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
This hearty casserole is a perfect comfort food solution for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal. With ground beef, rice, and canned vegetables, it’s an easy and satisfying option that’s sure to please the whole family.
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Mix cooked rice, soup, peas and carrots, paprika, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Add the cooked ground beef to the mixture and stir well.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. If using cheese, sprinkle on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
One-Pot Ground Beef Pasta
Simplify your dinner routine with this hearty, one-pot ground beef pasta recipe that’s ready in under 30 minutes. This classic comfort food is a staple for a reason!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the pasta, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
5. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Beef Quesadillas
These flavorful quesadillas are filled with tender beef, melted cheese, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef in the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle a quarter of the beef mixture onto half of the tortilla.
6. Sprinkle a quarter cup of shredded cheese on top of the beef.
7. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
9. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, garlic, and mixed vegetables to the pan. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook for an additional minute, then serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Simple Beef and Potato Hash
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or brunch. This simple recipe combines tender beef with crispy potatoes and onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (ground or thinly sliced), cooked until browned
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the cooked beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside. Add another tablespoon of oil if needed, then add the diced potatoes and chopped onion. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and lightly browned.
4. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the cooked beef and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe yields a rich meat sauce and tender spaghetti, sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 ounces spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in marinara sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer meat sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti and meat sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a hearty and flavorful combination of tender beef, crisp cabbage, and savory soy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
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 garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the cabbage and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and sesame oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef
A flavorful and nutritious recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Gravy over Mashed Potatoes
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cold winter night. This recipe combines the rich flavors of beef, mushrooms, and mashed potatoes to create a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as top round or sirloin)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook mashed potatoes according to package instructions or boil diced potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and milk.
3. In a large skillet, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add butter, garlic, and mushrooms to the same skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
5. Add beef broth and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens.
6. Serve beef and mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-25 minutes
Quick Beef and Cheese Empanadas
In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious and savory snack or meal with this easy recipe for beef and cheese empanadas. Perfect for a quick gathering or as an after-school treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, sour cream, or salsa for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add onion and olive oil to the pan; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Roll out empanada dough to desired thickness. Cut into squares or circles.
5. Place a spoonful of beef mixture onto one half of each square/circle, leaving a 1/2-inch border around filling. Sprinkle with cheese.
6. Fold dough in half over filling; press edges to seal. Use fork to crimp edges.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Cornbread Casserole
A comforting one-dish wonder that combines tender beef, crunchy cornbread, and savory vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup milk
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, onions, or jalapeños for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add frozen corn kernels and cook until thawed.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and melted butter.
5. Add milk, egg, salt, and pepper to the dry ingredients; stir until smooth.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
7. Add cooked beef and corn mixture to the prepared dish.
8. Pour cornbread batter over the top.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Lentil Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender beef, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, and paprika (if using) and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the lentils, broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Eggplant Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the richness of ground beef with the tender sweetness of eggplant, all in a quick and easy skillet meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the sliced eggplant in a single layer, without overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste. If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle on top and cook until melted.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Macaroni Skillet Dinner
Beef and Macaroni Skillet Dinner Recipe
Summary:
This hearty skillet dinner combines ground beef, macaroni, and vegetables for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and corn)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
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 diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in frozen vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, and dried basil. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir to combine with the meat and vegetable mixture.
6. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
20-25 minutes
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Transform classic stuffed shells into a hearty, satisfying meal by adding savory beef and wilted spinach to the mix. This twist on the Italian favorite is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound 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
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked beef mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef-spinach filling.
7. Place shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, 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 Zucchini Lasagna
A classic Italian-inspired dish with a twist, this beef and zucchini lasagna combines tender ground beef, sautéed zucchini, and creamy ricotta cheese layered between fresh pasta sheets.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 lasagna noodles
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add sliced zucchini, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Combine cooked beef mixture with ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Assemble lasagna by spreading meat sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by noodles, then topping with remaining cheese mixture. Repeat layers two more times.
7. Top with shredded mozzarella and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Black Bean Burritos
A flavorful and filling meal that combines the savory taste of beef with the rich flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa, sour cream, and cilantro for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cooked black beans, chili powder, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by spooning the beef and bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese (if using).
6. Roll up the burrito tightly and serve with your choice of toppings.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie
This classic shepherd’s pie recipe gets a flavorful twist with the addition of sweet potatoes, creating a deliciously comforting dish 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
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups mashed potatoes (see below for recipe)
Mashed Potato Recipe:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, sweet potato, beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Spread mashed potatoes over the top of the meat mixture.
6. Dot with butter and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these delicious and budget-friendly ground beef recipes! With 20 mouth-watering options, you’ll never have to sacrifice flavor for affordability again. From classic comfort foods like Beef and Bean Chili and Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, to international-inspired dishes like Homemade Beef Tacos and Cheesy Beef Quesadillas, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? These recipes won’t break the bank! With ingredients you likely already have on hand, you can whip up a tasty meal that will please even the pickiest eaters.
