When it comes to cooking with ground beef, there are countless possibilities. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, this versatile ingredient can be used in a multitude of ways. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious ground beef recipes that are easy to make and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From tacos and quesadillas to pasta and stir-fries, we’ve got you covered with a variety of flavorful and satisfying meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these recipes are perfect for busy home cooks. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the many wonders of ground beef!
Classic Beef Tacos
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe for classic beef tacos. Ground beef, seasoned with a blend of spices and simmered to perfection, is served in a crispy taco shell with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, sour cream, salsa
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, cooking for 1-2 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
3. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.
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 and adding your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
Easy Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
Satisfy your cravings with these simple and flavorful quesadillas packed with seasoned beef and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a separate pan, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine.
3. Place a tortilla in the preheated skillet and sprinkle one-fourth of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture on top of the cheese.
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 an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired. Enjoy!
One-Pot Ground Beef Pasta
A hearty and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines the flavors of ground beef, pasta, and tomato sauce for a comforting dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the sauce and stir to combine.
6. Combine the cooked pasta and tomato sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes.
Simple Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
In this classic Chinese-inspired dish, tender beef and crisp broccoli are quickly stir-fried together with savory soy sauce for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a busy day when you need a flavorful fix.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons 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 for 3-4 minutes, until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, broccoli, and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to skillet with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional minute, until beef is coated with sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Beef and Potato Skillet
In just 20 minutes, you can have a hearty and satisfying meal with this easy-to-make skillet recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 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 for 3-4 minutes, or until browned, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
5. Add the potatoes to the skillet; cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until tender.
6. Return the beef to the skillet and stir in paprika.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Homestyle Beef Meatloaf
A classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to please! This homestyle beef meatloaf is made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a hint of ketchup for a rich and savory flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Add chopped onion and grated cheddar cheese (if using) to the meat mixture and mix until just combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers
A classic comfort food that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor, using simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
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. Stir until combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Gravy over Rice
A hearty and comforting dish that combines tender beef, savory mushrooms, and rich gravy served over fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the beef strips and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), and flour. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Serve the beef and mushroom gravy over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Beef Enchiladas
These enchiladas are a perfect blend of tender beef, creamy cheese, and spicy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sour cream, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat and add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
4. Assemble the enchiladas by spooning the beef mixture onto a tortilla, then rolling it up and placing it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
5. Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This hearty stir-fry combines the comfort of ground beef with the crunch of fresh cabbage, all in a quick and easy 20-minute meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in shredded cabbage, soy sauce, and olive oil. Cook until cabbage is tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Beefy Mac and Cheese
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this creamy, cheesy, and beefy macaroni dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. 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 butter, flour, and milk to the skillet. Whisk until smooth, then bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Beef Chili
Warm up with a hearty and comforting bowl of beef chili that’s ready in no time! This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground 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. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika; cook 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors meld together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Bean Burritos
This hearty burrito recipe combines tender beef, flavorful beans, and creamy cheese with crispy tortillas, making for a satisfying meal or snack. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
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 onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the 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 spooning the beef and bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Beef Stroganoff
A classic Russian dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! This recipe yields a deliciously savory beef stroganoff that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces sour cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook 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 butter, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked beef back into the skillet and stir in sour cream. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A hearty twist on the classic stuffed shell recipe, this dish combines ground beef, spinach, and ricotta cheese with jumbo pasta shells for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 package jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions; 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 spinach, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg to the skillet; stir until well combined.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef mixture, placing them in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top stuffed shells with ricotta cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Quick Beef Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, this beef fried rice recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced beef (cooked and cooled)
– 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
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cooked beef; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Beef Empanadas
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these savory, flaky pastry pockets filled with tender beef and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
– Water for sealing
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 with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Spoon the beef mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Brush the edges with beaten egg and fold the other half of the pastry over the filling. Press edges to seal.
7. Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush tops with egg wash.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of slow-cooked beef, sweet corn, and crumbly cornbread. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup milk
– 2 cups cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in corn kernels and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and cornbread mix. Pour mixture into the skillet with beef and corn mixture. Stir until combined.
6. Transfer the casserole to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with melted butter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Beef Nachos
Elevate your snack game with this spicy beef nacho recipe, perfect for game day or a quick weeknight dinner. A flavorful combination of tender beef, crispy tortilla chips, and melted cheese will satisfy any craving.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, jalapeño, garlic, chili powder, and cumin; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet; top with cooked beef mixture and shredded cheese.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with cilantro (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Zucchini Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This skillet combines tender beef, crunchy zucchini, and savory spices for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the beef strips to the skillet and add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with these 20 delicious ground beef recipes that are easy to make! From classic tacos and quesadillas to hearty pasta dishes, stir-fries, and casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Impress your family and friends with simple yet flavorful meals like Beefy Mac and Cheese, Easy Beef Chili, or Spicy Beef Nachos. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a new culinary adventure, these ground beef recipes are sure to please.