When it comes to cooking on a budget, one of the most versatile and affordable ingredients to work with is ground beef. With just a few simple recipes, you can create a variety of tasty and satisfying meals that won’t break the bank. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, there’s no shortage of creative ways to use ground beef in your cooking.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering cheap ground beef recipes that are perfect for families, busy professionals, or anyone looking to stretch their grocery budget without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these easy-to-make and affordable meals are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Classic Beef and Bean Chili
This hearty, comforting chili recipe is a staple of American cuisine, perfect for a cozy evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Beef Tacos
Get ready to spice up your taco game with this simple recipe that yields juicy and flavorful beef tacos. With a few easy steps, you’ll be enjoying delicious homemade tacos in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
– Salsa and sour cream for serving (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 diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and 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 the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese and chopped cilantro (if using).
6. Serve with salsa, sour cream, and any other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Beef and Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation, making it a great option for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the ground beef in a skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the cooked ground beef to the rice mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spaghetti with Hearty Meat Sauce
A classic comfort food dish that’s sure to satisfy your appetite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 ounces spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine the cooked spaghetti and meat sauce. If too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines tender beef, crispy potatoes, and savory seasonings. Perfect for a quick morning meal or weekend gathering with friends!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef, diced (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine beef, potatoes, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until the ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet in an even layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the beef is cooked through and the potatoes are crispy.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef
This classic recipe combines flavorful ground beef with aromatic spices and colorsfully filled bell peppers for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
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 onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and place in a baking dish.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
Elevate your Mexican-inspired meal with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe for Beef and Cheese Quesadillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 6 large tortillas
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Brush one side of each tortilla with vegetable oil.
4. Place one tortilla, oiled side down, in the skillet. Sprinkle shredded cheese over half of the tortilla, then top with cooked beef mixture and chopped cilantro.
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 or until the other side is also crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Simple Beef Stroganoff
A classic Russian dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces sour cream
– 1 cup cooked egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in broth, tomato paste, mustard, and paprika. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Return beef to skillet; stir to coat with sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until beef is cooked through.
6. Stir in sour cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve beef and sauce over egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Quickly cook up a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell pepper slices
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 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. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and snow peas; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Return beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Beef and Pasta Skillet
A hearty and satisfying one-pot meal that combines tender beef, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta with beef and cheese mixture; season with oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Shepherd’s Pie
This classic comfort food dish is a staple of British cuisine, featuring tender beef, sautéed mushrooms, and mashed potatoes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup beef broth
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.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened. Then, add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Sprinkle flour, thyme, salt, and pepper over the mixture; stir to combine.
5. Transfer the beef mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the beef mixture.
7. Dot the potatoes with butter and pour in the beef broth.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Beef and Cabbage Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food solution when you need something nourishing and delicious on the table quickly. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this flavorful bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head cabbage, shredded
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cabbage, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty casserole that combines the flavors of tender beef, crispy cornbread, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in frozen corn kernels, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions. Fold in melted butter.
6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the beef mixture, followed by the cornbread mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
One-Pot Beef and Macaroni
This classic recipe is a staple for any family gathering or cozy night in. With its rich beef broth, tender pasta, and savory seasonings, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup macaroni
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the macaroni, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
5. If using cheese, stir it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Onion Stuffed Baked Potatoes
A hearty and flavorful twist on classic baked potatoes, these stuffed spuds are filled with tender beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese. Perfect for a comforting meal or satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
5. While the potatoes are baking, cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
6. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is caramelized.
7. Split the baked potatoes open and top each with the beef and onion mixture, followed by shredded cheddar cheese.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes for the potatoes, plus an additional 10-15 minutes for cooking the beef and onion mixture.
Beef and Lentil Stew
Warm up with a hearty and flavorful Beef and Lentil Stew, perfect for a cozy night in. This comforting dish is packed with tender beef, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (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 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add the lentils, garlic, bell pepper, thyme, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until the lentils are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty recipe, featuring tender beef and wilted spinach nestled within jumbo pasta shells. A rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese complete this satisfying casserole.
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
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells al dente; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook beef, onion, and garlic until browned; drain excess fat.
4. Add spinach and cook until wilted; stir in ricotta cheese.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef-spinach mixture and place in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Pour tomato sauce over shells and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef and Tomato Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf combines the comfort of beef and tomatoes with the simplicity of a one-pot meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven 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 diced onion to the pan and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, cherry tomatoes, and browned beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Zucchini Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender beef, crunchy zucchini, and savory spices for a delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the zucchini to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the skillet and stir in paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Black Bean Burritos
These flavorful burritos are packed with tender beef, black beans, and cheese, wrapped up in a warm tortilla. A perfect combination of Mexican-inspired flavors and comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes
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 onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in black beans, taco seasoning, and 1/2 cup water. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until flavors meld.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by filling with beef mixture, cheese, and desired toppings.
7. Cook in oven for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals without breaking the bank! This article features 20 delicious and budget-friendly recipes using ground beef as the main ingredient. From classic comfort foods like chili and tacos, to hearty casseroles and skillet dishes, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with prices starting at just $1.50 per serving, these recipes won’t put a dent in your wallet. Whether you’re a busy parent or a college student on a tight budget, these tasty and easy-to-make meals are sure to become new favorites.