When it comes to quick and delicious meals, few ingredients can rival the versatility of ground beef. Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent on-the-go, having a repertoire of tasty and easy-to-make ground beef recipes up your sleeve can be a game-changer. And what’s better than cooking with an air fryer? By using less oil and producing crispy results, this modern kitchen appliance has revolutionized the way we think about cooking.
In this article, we’ll dive into 18 mouth-watering ground beef air fryer recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From tacos to meatballs, and from sliders to casserole, there’s something for everyone on this list. So let’s get started and explore the incredible possibilities of cooking with ground beef and an air fryer!
Air Fryer Ground Beef Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this simple recipe that yields juicy, flavorful ground beef in just a few minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Mix well.
3. Add taco seasoning and mix until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Place the mixture in the air fryer basket in an even layer.
5. Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway through, until cooked to desired doneness.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos with ground beef mixture and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy ground beef with gooey cheese and crunchy bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, green pepper, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the peppers.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Air Fryer Ground Beef Meatballs
Elevate your mealtime with these tender and flavorful air-fried ground beef meatballs, perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite dishes. With minimal prep time and no need for deep-frying, this recipe is a game-changer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinara sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
5. Flip the meatballs and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Crispy Ground Beef Empanadas
Crispy Ground Beef Empanadas Recipe
Savor the flavors of Latin America with these crispy and savory empanadas, filled with seasoned ground beef and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Vegetable oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Roll out puff pastry to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch squares.
5. Place a spoonful of ground beef mixture in center of each square. Fold dough over filling to form an empanada, pressing edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Arrange empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with vegetable oil.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Air Fryer Ground Beef and Potato Hash
A hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch option, this air fryer hash combines crispy ground beef with tender potatoes and a hint of savory flavor. Perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s packed with protein and complex carbs.
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 bell peppers, mushrooms, or other desired vegetables
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, potatoes, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Load the mixture into the air fryer basket in an even layer.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and cook for 15 minutes.
5. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful twist on traditional wraps, these Spicy Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps combine the savory taste of beef with the freshness of lettuce and a kick of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 lettuce leaves
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Season the beef mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the wraps by spooning the beef mixture onto a lettuce leaf and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Ground Beef Sliders
Get ready to elevate your slider game with this simple recipe that yields tender and flavorful ground beef sliders in just a few minutes. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into small patties, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Place patties in the air fryer basket in batches if necessary. Cook for 4-5 minutes per batch.
5. Flip patties halfway through cooking time.
6. Assemble sliders by placing cooked patties on buns and adding your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (in batches)
Garlic Parmesan Ground Beef Patties
Elevate your burger game with this flavorful twist on classic ground beef patties. Rich garlic and parmesan cheese add a savory depth to each juicy patty.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: breadcrumbs for binding
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape each into a patty.
4. Add olive oil to the preheated skillet or grill and cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through to desired doneness.
5. Serve hot on a bun with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Ground Beef and Veggie Stir-Fry
This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll have a flavorful and nutritious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite stir-fry sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, mixed veggies, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Load the mixture into the Air Fryer basket in an even layer.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until the ground beef is cooked to your liking and the veggies are tender-crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add your favorite stir-fry sauce and toss to coat.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Savory Ground Beef Stuffed Mushrooms
This recipe is a hearty and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed mushrooms, with the added bonus of being incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these savory bites are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
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 as it cooks.
3. Add breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the meat mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Air Fryer Ground Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
A twist on the classic quesadilla, this recipe combines ground beef, cheese, and air-fried goodness for a quick and easy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Cook until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Place a tortilla in the air fryer basket, followed by a spoonful of the beef mixture and some shredded cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half and spray with cooking spray or brush with oil.
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Herbed Ground Beef Meatloaf Bites
These bite-sized meatloaves are packed with flavor and perfect for snacking or as a main course. With the added boost of fresh herbs, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, basil, garlic, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatloaf bites, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
4. Place the meatloaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Ground Beef and Rice Bowls
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious meal with this easy-to-make recipe. Ground beef, fluffy rice, and crunchy vegetables come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef with olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until just combined.
3. Load the air fryer basket with the ground beef mixture and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Cook the mixed vegetables in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
5. Divide cooked rice among bowls. Add a scoop of cooked ground beef on top, followed by the mixed vegetables.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Zesty Ground Beef Taquitos
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these flavorful and crispy Zesty Ground Beef Taquitos! Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these bite-sized treats are packed with bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
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 chopped onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Roll up the taquitos tightly and secure with toothpicks if needed.
6. Fry the taquitos in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Air Fryer Ground Beef and Spinach Rolls
Air Fryer Ground Beef and Spinach Rolls Recipe
Savor the convenience of a quick weeknight dinner with these flavorful rolls, packed with seasoned ground beef, wilted spinach, and crispy air-fried goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Water, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired roll size.
4. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into an oval shape.
5. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Place rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy on the outside.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
BBQ Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavors of BBQ ground beef. This hearty dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheddar, sour cream, diced onions, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the cooked ground beef. Stir to combine.
5. Split cooked sweet potatoes lengthwise and top with the BBQ ground beef mixture. Add optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Air Fryer Ground Beef and Eggplant Casserole
A flavorful and satisfying casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, this Air Fryer recipe combines tender ground beef, crispy eggplant slices, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ground beef in a skillet 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; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Arrange eggplant slices in a single layer on the Air Fryer basket. Cook for 5 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
5. In a separate bowl, combine cooked ground beef mixture with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Assemble the casserole by placing the cooked eggplant slices in a 9×13-inch dish, followed by the ground beef mixture.
7. Top with additional mozzarella cheese (optional). Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes at 375°F (190°C) or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef and Cheddar Air Fryer Nachos
Elevate your snack game with this easy and delicious recipe that combines the flavors of ground beef, cheddar cheese, and crispy tortilla chips. Perfect for a quick appetizer or satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6-8 corn tortilla chips
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Cook the ground beef mixture in the air fryer basket for 5-6 minutes, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Arrange tortilla chips on a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Spoon cooked ground beef over the tortilla chips.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 mouthwatering ground beef air fryer recipes! From tacos to sliders, stuffed peppers to quesadillas, and even meatballs and empanadas, there’s something for everyone. These quick and easy meals are perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. With flavors ranging from cheesy to spicy, savory to zesty, you’ll never get bored with these air fryer ground beef recipes.
