Are you looking for some delicious and straightforward beef recipes to add to your repertoire? Look no further! Beef can be a staple protein in many cuisines, but it’s often associated with long cooking times or complicated techniques. But what if you could have tender, flavorful beef dishes on the table in no time? In this article, we’ll explore 20 quick and easy beef recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic comfort food to international flavors, these recipes prove that you don’t need a lot of time or expertise to create mouthwatering meals. So whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or simply someone who loves a good meal, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 quick and easy beef recipes.
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe combines tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 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 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 skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the broccoli and garlic; cook until broccoli is tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return the beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Beef Tacos
Get ready for a flavorful and satisfying meal with this simple recipe for Easy Beef Tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Your favorite toppings (e.g., lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, sour cream)
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 taco seasoning to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Beef Pasta
This recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day when you want a satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. With just a few ingredients, this one-pot wonder comes together quickly and serves a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pasta (such as penne or bow tie)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the pot and stir until well coated with the sauce.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
A hearty and flavorful Russian-inspired dish, Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef strips in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms, butter, onion, garlic, and paprika to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in sour cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Beef Chili
A hearty and comforting bowl of chili that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red 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, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Vegetable Skewers
A flavorful and colorful recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering. This dish is sure to please both kids and adults!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread beef, bell peppers, onion, garlic, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and soy sauce.
4. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until beef reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Beef Fried Rice
Quick Beef Fried Rice Recipe
Summary: This recipe is a classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the flavors of beef, vegetables, and rice for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced beef (cooked and shredded)
– 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 to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cooked beef; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Push the beef and vegetable mixture to one side of the pan.
6. Pour in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Stir-fry the rice for about 2 minutes, until it is heated through and starting to brown.
8. Mix the rice with the beef and vegetables; season with soy sauce and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
A classic Mexican-inspired dish that combines tender beef with melted cheese inside a crispy tortilla. These quesadillas are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the beef, onion, bell pepper, and garlic until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add cumin and chili powder; cook for 1 minute.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet; sprinkle one-quarter of the beef mixture onto half of the tortilla.
5. Top with one-quarter of the cheese; fold tortilla in half.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy and melted; flip and cook another 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Beef Burgers
A classic favorite that’s quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser! These juicy beef burgers are perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, ketchup
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4 equal-sized patties.
4. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Serve on hamburger buns with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Beef and Potato Hash
A hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch option, this Beef and Potato Hash is a twist on the classic dish. With tender beef and crispy potatoes, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon 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 onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Beef Curry
This recipe makes a flavorful and comforting beef curry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and aromatic dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (such as chuck or round), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 30 minutes or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry
This classic stir-fry recipe is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy beef and bell peppers. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
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 bell pepper strips to the pan and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return the beef strips to the pan and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Quick Beef Noodle Soup
In just 20 minutes, you can have a warm and satisfying bowl of soup to brighten up your day. This recipe combines the flavors of beef, noodles, and vegetables in a quick and easy-to-make soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large pot or wok, cook the beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the beef broth and soy sauce, stirring to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Add the cooked noodles to the pot and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Beef and Spinach Lasagna
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines tender beef, wilted spinach, and layers of pasta, cheese, and rich sauce. This hearty lasagna is perfect for a comforting meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 12 lasagna noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned; drain excess fat. Add onion, garlic, and spinach; cook until wilted.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading meat sauce on bottom layer of noodles, followed by cheese and repeat process two more times.
6. Top with remaining cheese and cover with aluminum foil for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Beef Meatballs
A classic comfort food that’s quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. These meatballs 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: chopped onion, bell pepper, or mushrooms for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each meatball.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll them to coat evenly.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Rice Casserole
A comforting, one-dish wonder that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. 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 chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, beef mixture, and grated cheddar cheese.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish; cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the casserole is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Simple Beef Stew
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cold winter evening. This hearty stew is made with tender beef, vegetables, and rich broth that’s easy to prepare and satisfies the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot 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, carrots, potatoes, broth, water, tomato paste, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Beef and Onion Pie
This hearty beef and onion pie is a comforting classic that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Made with tender beef, sweet caramelized onions, and flaky puff pastry, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up meat with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add garlic, peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook until onions are caramelized.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to fit top of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spoon beef mixture into the dish, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
6. Brush pastry with beaten egg and place over filling.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quick Beef Fajitas
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this quick and delicious recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup sliced onions
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
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 the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and chili powder to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Return the beef strips to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
6. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the fajitas by placing some of the beef and vegetable mixture onto each tortilla.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Lentil Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender beef, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices. A warm bowl will fill your home with the cozy scent of simmering goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the beef in a little oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add lentils, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and thyme. Pour in broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of delicious beef recipes! This collection of 20 quick and easy dishes will satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends. From classic stir-fries and tacos to hearty casseroles and soups, these mouth-watering recipes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a new twist on an old favorite, this article has something for everyone. So why wait? Start cooking and get ready to savor the flavors of beef!
