When it comes to a quick and easy lunch, few ingredients are as versatile as ground beef. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, cheesy, or simply satisfying, there’s a ground beef recipe out there that’s sure to hit the spot. In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 favorite quick ground beef lunch recipes that are perfect for busy days.
From classic tacos and quesadillas to innovative twists like stuffed bell peppers and mac ‘n cheese skillets, these recipes prove that with a few simple ingredients and some creative cooking, you can have a delicious and satisfying lunch on the table in no time. So go ahead, get cooking, and see what’s at the top of our list!
Classic Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe that combines tender beef, crunchy taco shells, and a burst of fresh flavor from homemade salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Fresh Salsa ingredients (see below)
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream
Fresh Salsa:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add chopped onion and taco seasoning; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning beef mixture onto tortillas and topping with desired toppings.
5. Prepare Fresh Salsa by combining all ingredients in a bowl; season to taste.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas
Satisfy your cravings with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the flavors of juicy ground beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 large tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Spoon the cooked ground beef mixture onto half of the tortilla.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
9. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Beef and Bean Burrito Bowls
Get ready to fill your bowl with the flavors of a classic burrito! This easy recipe combines tender beef, creamy beans, and crunchy toppings for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, for serving (optional)
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble bowls by filling tortillas with beef mixture, black beans, and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on a classic recipe, these Spicy Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers are perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of juicy beef, crunchy peppers, and spicy kick will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chili flakes, and cumin to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Beef and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
Enjoy a flavorful and nutritious main course with this simple recipe that combines juicy beef, savory rice, and sweet tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Stuff each tomato with the beef and rice mixture, filling to the top.
7. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry made with ground beef, crisp cabbage, and savory soy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped cabbage, garlic, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or enjoy on its own.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beefy Mac and Cheese Skillet
This hearty skillet recipe combines tender beef, creamy macaroni and cheese, and a hint of smoky flavor for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine the cooked macaroni, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese in the skillet. Stir until the cheese melts and the mixture is creamy.
6. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Beef Nachos with Guacamole
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this mouthwatering loaded beef nacho recipe, topped with creamy guacamole and a sprinkle of magic.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 can (16 oz) of refried beans
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 ripe avocados
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat and add taco seasoning.
3. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Spread refried beans over the chips, followed by browned beef mixture.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. While nachos are baking, mash avocados with lime juice, salt, and pepper to make guacamole.
8. Remove nachos from oven and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top.
9. Serve warm with a dollop of fresh guacamole.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Korean Beef Bulgogi Lettuce Wraps
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Korean beef bulgogi with the freshness of crisp lettuce leaves, making for a unique and delicious wrap.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (thinly sliced), such as ribeye or sirloin
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 4-6 lettuce leaves (iceberg or romaine work well)
– Optional: kimchi, pickled ginger, and/or toasted sesame seeds for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper.
2. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the beef for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing the cooked beef onto a lettuce leaf, adding any desired toppings (kimchi, pickled ginger, toasted sesame seeds).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes to an hour (marinating time), plus 2-3 minutes per side for cooking.
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
This classic recipe combines tender beef strips with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and a rich sauce, served over egg noodles. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
– Sour cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the same skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Return beef strips to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Serve over cooked egg noodles, topped with sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This recipe is a classic Chinese-inspired dish that can be prepared in no time. With a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal ready to devour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. Return the beef to the skillet and add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños
Add some heat to your party with these flavorful and spicy beef and cheese stuffed jalapeños!
Ingredients:
– 12 large jalapeño peppers
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the jalapeños and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chili powder, salt, and pepper to the beef; stir to combine.
5. Stuff each jalapeño with the beef mixture, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top.
6. Top each jalapeño with shredded cheese and chopped onion.
7. Dip the tops of the jalapeños in beaten egg and then coat with breadcrumbs.
8. Place stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef Gyros with Tzatziki
Looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal? This recipe combines juicy ground beef gyros with a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (see below)
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together ground beef, onion, parsley, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into small patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble gyros by placing a few beef patties onto each pita, followed by tzatziki sauce and any desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Potato Hash with Fried Eggs
A classic breakfast dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this Beef and Potato Hash with Fried Eggs is a great way to start the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or thyme)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add diced potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they start to brown.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, fry eggs in a separate skillet over medium heat.
8. Serve the Beef and Potato Hash with Fried Eggs hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Pitas
Savor the flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with these tender beef and spinach stuffed pita pockets.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
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 the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the chopped spinach, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spinach has wilted.
5. Warm the pita breads by wrapping them in foil and baking for 5 minutes.
6. Stuff each pita with the beef and spinach mixture, topping with feta cheese crumbles if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Savory Beef and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering. This recipe combines tender beef, creamy cornbread, and savory vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons 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, garlic, and paprika; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in corn kernels, milk, flour, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, mix cornbread mix with melted butter.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer beef mixture, then cornbread mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Black Bean Tostadas
Elevate your taco Tuesday with these flavorful beef and black bean tostadas! A twist on the classic, this recipe combines tender beef, creamy beans, and crunchy toppings for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil, for brushing
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
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 and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in chili powder and cumin; season with salt and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble tostadas by spooning beef mixture onto tortillas, followed by black beans and desired toppings.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef Sloppy Joes
A classic comfort food favorite, Ground Beef Sloppy Joes are a simple and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and dried oregano.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the Sloppy Joe mixture on hamburger buns.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
Beef and Zucchini Noodle Skillet
This recipe combines tender beef strips with sautéed zucchini noodles, onions, and garlic for a flavorful and nutritious meal. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef strips in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodle-like strands and add to the skillet with the beef and onions.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese and cook until melted.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Beef and Avocado Salad Wraps
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and healthy wrap recipe, featuring tender beef, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound grilled flank steak, sliced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 large tortilla wraps
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine sliced beef, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).
2. In a separate bowl, mash avocado with lime juice and salt to taste.
3. Warm tortilla wraps according to package instructions.
4. Assemble the wraps by spreading mashed avocado on each wrap, followed by the beef mixture.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your lunch routine with these delicious ground beef recipes! From classic tacos to Korean-inspired wraps, and from comfort food casseroles to healthy stir-fries, this collection of 20 quick and easy recipes has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal to take on-the-go or a hearty option to fuel up for the rest of the day, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
