Ground beef is a staple ingredient in many kitchens, and for good reason – it’s affordable, versatile, and packed with flavor. But sometimes it can be hard to come up with new and exciting ways to use it. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 delicious ground beef recipes that are quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
From classic tacos to hearty stews, we’ve got you covered with these mouthwatering ground beef recipes. Whether you’re looking for something simple and straightforward or a little more adventurous, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your ground beef and get ready to cook up some amazing meals!
Classic Beef Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this simple and flavorful recipe for classic beef tacos. This iconic dish is a staple of Mexican cuisine, featuring tender ground beef, crunchy lettuce, creamy cheese, and tangy tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Sprinkle taco seasoning and stir to combine.
4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until flavors meld together.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning beef mixture onto tortillas, followed by desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Beef Pasta
This recipe is a comforting and flavorful take on classic pasta dishes, featuring tender beef, sautéed vegetables, and al dente noodles all cooked in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes or until al dente.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
Easy Beef and Cheese Quesadillas Recipe
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this simple and delicious recipe! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook in the skillet until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add cheese to the cooked beef mixture and stir until melted and well combined.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the beef and cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Beef Stir-Fry
Quickly cook up a flavorful and nutritious beef stir-fry with this simple recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, it’s ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 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 beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add sliced onion and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add mixed bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Return beef to skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Quick Beef Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that’s ready in no time! This quick beef chili is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth; stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Rice Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender beef, fluffy rice, and savory vegetables in a quick and easy skillet dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the mixed frozen vegetables, cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the rice mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the beef is coated in the rice mixture and heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Beef Enchiladas
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe for Cheesy Beef Enchiladas. Tender beef, wrapped in tortillas and smothered in a rich cheese sauce, makes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°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 and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning beef mixture onto a tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Beef and Potato Hash
Satisfy your cravings with this comforting beef and potato hash recipe, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
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
Instructions:
1. Preheat 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 onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced potatoes and stir to combine with the beef mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the skillet contents to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Sloppy Joes
Get ready for a crowd-pleasing favorite with this simple recipe for Easy Sloppy Joes! This classic comfort food is perfect for casual gatherings, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: bun or crackers for serving
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, 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 ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and cumin.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve on buns or crackers (optional).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Bean Burritos
A classic Mexican-inspired dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe combines tender beef, creamy beans, and crunchy veggies all wrapped up in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 tortillas
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa (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 onion, minced garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the black beans, peas and carrots, salt, and pepper.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by spooning the beef and bean mixture onto a tortilla and adding shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Simple Beef Meatballs
A classic comfort food, beef meatballs are a staple of many cuisines. This recipe yields tender and flavorful meatballs that are perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinara sauce and pasta for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each meatball.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Quick Beef Stroganoff
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a delicious and easy-to-make beef stroganoff that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 can (10.5 oz) beef broth
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef strips in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside. Add the oil, onion, garlic, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the beef broth, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine, then add the browned beef back into the skillet.
4. Simmer the mixture for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve the stroganoff over cooked noodles (such as egg noodles) and top with sour cream and parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired stir-fry that combines tender beef with crisp cabbage, garlic, and ginger. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups chopped cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add chopped cabbage to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until slightly wilted.
5. Return cooked beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Beef Nachos
Satisfy your cravings with this simple recipe that combines the flavors of beef, cheese, and tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salsa and sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and taco seasoning to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the tortilla chips.
6. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with cilantro (if using).
8. Serve hot with salsa and sour cream (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and savory beef and mushroom gravy recipe. Perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Add butter to the same skillet and sauté mushrooms and garlic until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over mushrooms and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in beef broth and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Return beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer gravy for an additional 2-3 minutes or until thickened to desired consistency.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Simple Beef Shepherd’s Pie
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch. This simple shepherd’s pie is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°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 onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quick Beef and Broccoli
A speedy and satisfying stir-fry that combines the flavors of beef, broccoli, and soy sauce for a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 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 garlic and broccoli to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and 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: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Cornbread Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this beef and cornbread casserole is a satisfying combination of tender beef, creamy sauce, and crumbly cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef and onion in a skillet until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
3. Mix in garlic, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions.
6. Spread cornbread over beef mixture.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped scallions (if using).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Easy Beef Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe fills bell peppers with a savory beef mixture that’s easy to prepare and cooks quickly.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
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 chopped onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
5. Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese on top (if using). Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beef and Tomato Macaroni
A classic comfort food dish that combines tender beef, juicy tomatoes, and creamy pasta – a perfect meal for any day of the week. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup macaroni
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. 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 chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. In a large saucepan, combine cooked macaroni, beef mixture, and grated cheese. Stir in milk until smooth.
6. Cook over low heat until cheese is melted and the sauce is heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the ease and flavor of ground beef recipes with these 20 quick and delicious dishes. From classic tacos to comforting casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making one-pot pasta, cheesy quesadillas, or a hearty chili. Get creative with beef and rice skillet, beef and potato hash, or sloppy joes. This article is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a tasty meal in no time. With these recipes, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time!
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