Are you a fan of bold flavors and hearty dishes? Look no further than the world of Filipino cuisine, where spices and aromatics come together to create mouthwatering masterpieces. When it comes to ground beef, Filipinos know how to elevate it from humble beginnings to culinary stardom. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 flavorful recipes that showcase the best of Filipino cooking, from spicy stir-fries to savory pastries.
From classic dishes like picadillo and giniling to creative twists on international favorites, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire your next meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this collection has something for everyone. So grab your apron, get ready to cook up some flavor, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of Filipino ground beef recipes!
Filipino-style ground beef picadillo
A classic Filipino dish made with ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and spices, picadillo is a staple in many households. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup chopped green onions and/or fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef, salt, black pepper, cumin, and paprika. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and/or fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy beef giniling with potatoes and carrots
A flavorful and spicy twist on the classic Filipino dish, this recipe combines tender beef with crunchy potatoes and carrots, all wrapped up in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef giniling (ground beef)
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and garlic, cook until softened.
3. Add beef, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
4. Add potatoes and carrots. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savory beef empanadas with raisins
These sweet and savory empanadas are a perfect blend of Spanish and Latin American flavors. The addition of raisins adds a delightful surprise to the rich beef filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground beef
+ 1 onion, finely chopped
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon olive oil
+ 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
+ 1/4 cup raisins
+ 1 teaspoon cumin
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and shortening. Gradually add warm water, mixing until dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch squares.
4. Prepare filling by cooking ground beef with onion, garlic, and spices. Add mixed vegetables and raisins. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough square. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or circle shape, and press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for golden brown finish.
7. Bake empanadas for 20-25 minutes or until golden.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlicky beef and mushroom stir-fry
A flavorful and savory stir-fry that combines the richness of beef with the earthiness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a garlicky goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the beef is coated with the garlicky goodness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and tangy beef lumpia filling
Elevate your lumpia game with this sweet and tangy beef filling that combines the savory flavors of beef, onions, and bell peppers with a hint of sweetness from pineapple and a tangy kick from soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 medium bell pepper, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, 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 bell pepper to the pan and cook until they are translucent.
3. Add the garlic, pineapple juice, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the filling has thickened slightly.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy beef and potato stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines tender beef, fluffy potatoes, and a rich creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the potatoes, beef broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Beef and bell pepper sisig
Savor the bold flavors of the Philippines with this twist on the classic sisig dish, featuring tender beef and sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (such as sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into rings
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and crispy fried shallots for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
2. In the same pan, add bell peppers and garlic. Cook until peppers are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and sugar. Pour mixture into skillet with bell peppers.
4. Add cooked beef back to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and crispy fried shallots if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crunchy beef and vegetable spring rolls
A delicious and crispy Asian-inspired snack that’s perfect for any occasion. These spring rolls are filled with tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or at an Asian market)
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and scallions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the beef and vegetable mixture in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the spring rolls until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Drain the spring rolls on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Beef and green bean stir-fry with oyster sauce
This Asian-inspired stir-fry combines tender beef, crunchy green beans, and savory oyster sauce for a flavorful and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp oyster sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef strips and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add the cooked green beans and oyster sauce to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are coated with the sauce.
6. Return the beef strips to the pan and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and egg fried rice with peas
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple in many households. With its combination of savory beef, fluffy eggs, and tender peas, it’s no wonder why this recipe remains a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced beef (cooked and seasoned to taste)
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 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 diced beef and cook until heated through, about 1 minute.
3. Push the beef to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through, breaking into small pieces as they set.
4. Mix the eggs with the beef.
5. Add the peas, onion, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for 1-2 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
6. Finally, add the cooked rice to the pan, stirring-frying until it’s well combined with the other ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy beef and coconut milk curry
This rich and flavorful curry combines the bold flavors of beef with the creamy texture of coconut milk, all wrapped up in a spicy and aromatic sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a show-stopping main course.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium, then add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Return beef to pan, season with salt, and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and the beef is tender.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and cabbage stir-fry with soy sauce
Savor the flavors of Asia with this simple and savory beef and cabbage stir-fry, elevated by the rich taste of soy sauce. This quick-cooking dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a busy morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 1 medium cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame 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 garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds.
4. Add cabbage to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Return beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions (if using).
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and sweet potato hash with onions
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines tender beef, sweet potatoes, and caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
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 sweet potatoes and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Transfer the skillet contents to a baking dish and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef and tomato pasta sauce Filipino-style
Experience the bold flavors of the Philippines with this hearty beef and tomato pasta sauce, infused with aromatics and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 8 oz spaghetti
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add beef; cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, fish sauce (if using), cumin, salt, and black pepper.
5. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to desired consistency.
6. Serve sauce over cooked spaghetti; garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and corn empanada filling
Add a flavorful twist to your empanadas with this hearty beef and corn filling. Perfect for a snack or meal, 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 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the thawed corn kernels and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and chayote squash stir-fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines tender beef, sweet chayote squash, and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 medium chayote squash, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok 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 garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the chayote squash and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and tofu sisig with chili peppers
This recipe combines the savory flavor of beef with the creamy texture of tofu, all wrapped up in a spicy kick from chili peppers. Perfect for a flavorful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2-3 chili peppers (depending on desired level of spiciness), seeded and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
5. Add the crumbled tofu to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Add the chopped chili peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
7. Return the beef strips to the skillet and stir to combine with the tofu and chili pepper mixture.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and eggplant adobo stir-fry
Elevate your stir-fry game with this flavorful and savory dish that combines tender beef, eggplant, and a tangy adobo sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions 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 pan and set aside.
3. Add the eggplant and garlic to the pan; cook until the eggplant is tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, and oyster sauce (if using). Pour the adobo sauce over the eggplant mixture and stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and pineapple sweet and sour stir-fry
Get ready for a flavorful fusion of sweet and sour notes, perfectly balanced with the savory taste of beef and crunchy pineapple!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
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 pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add pineapple, soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 2 minutes.
5. Return beef to the pan and stir-fry until combined with the sauce.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until beef is cooked to your liking.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and mushroom stuffed bell peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender beef and sautéed mushrooms with the natural sweetness of bell peppers. A perfect main dish for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. Cook the ground beef, onion, mushrooms, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a skillet until browned, breaking up meat into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, cooked rice, and diced tomatoes.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 delicious Filipino ground beef recipes! From classic dishes like picadillo and empanadas, to innovative stir-fries and stews, there’s something for every palate. Try making savory dishes like beef and mushroom stir-fry or sweet and tangy lumpia filling. Or, go bold with spicy recipes like beef giniling with potatoes and carrots or beef sisig with chili peppers. Whatever your taste, these mouth-watering recipes will transport you to the flavors of the Philippines.