Are you tired of the same old ground beef dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering and easy-to-make ground beef recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends. From classic tacos to comforting casseroles, and from international-inspired dishes to quick weeknight meals, these recipes showcase the versatility of ground beef in the kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner looking for inspiration, our collection of ground beef recipes has something for everyone. With ingredients like fresh salsa, cheese, rice, beans, bell peppers, potatoes, and more, you’ll be amazed at how easily you can transform plain old ground beef into a culinary masterpiece.
Classic Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa
A flavorful and satisfying Mexican-inspired dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. This recipe combines tender beef, crispy tacos shells, and a zesty fresh 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:
+ 2 ripe tomatoes, diced
+ 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 1 tablespoon lime juice
+ Salt to taste
+ Cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and taco seasoning to the skillet and cook until the mixture is well combined.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with beef mixture, topped with your favorite toppings (e.g., shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream).
6. Prepare fresh salsa by combining ingredients in a bowl and mixing well.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
Savor the flavors of a hearty and satisfying dish with this recipe for Cheesy Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers. This comforting meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned; drain excess fat.
4. Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper; mix well.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with meat mixture and top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Beef and Rice Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of beef with the warmth of spices, served atop a bed of creamy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using chicken broth.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
6. Combine cooked rice, ground beef mixture, and diced tomatoes in a large mixing bowl.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Homestyle Beef Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a cold winter’s night, this homestyle beef shepherd’s pie is a classic recipe that’s easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, flour, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Juicy Beef Burger Sliders with Special Sauce
Take your burger game to the next level with these mouthwatering sliders packed with flavor and topped with a tangy special sauce. Perfect for any occasion, these mini burgers are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Special Sauce (see below)
– Lettuce, tomato, and cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into 8-10 small patties.
4. Grill burgers for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Assemble sliders on buns with special sauce, lettuce, tomato, and cheese (if using).
Special Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon relish
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Bean Chili with Cornbread
A hearty and comforting meal perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender beef, flavorful beans, and spices with a crispy cornbread to create a satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
For the Chili:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cornbread:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Prepare the cornbread by whisking together flour, cornmeal, sugar, eggs, milk, and melted butter in a bowl.
7. Pour into an 8-inch square baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time:
– Chili: 10 minutes
– Cornbread: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for any meal, packed with flavorful beef, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a satisfying dinner on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound 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 strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, broccoli, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and stir to combine with the broccoli mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Loaded Beef Nachos with Guacamole
Get ready for a flavor-packed snack that’s perfect for game day or any gathering! This recipe combines tender beef, crispy tortilla chips, and creamy guacamole for a deliciously loaded treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Guacamole recipe (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add taco seasoning and cook according to package instructions.
4. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
5. Spoon cooked beef mixture over the chips.
6. Top with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Guacamole Recipe:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Mash all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve alongside loaded nachos!
Beef and Potato Hash Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the potatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until they’re tender and lightly browned.
5. Return the beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the potatoes and onion mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
This classic recipe combines tender beef strips with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and a rich sour cream sauce, served over egg noodles. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces egg noodles, cooked
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add beef strips; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet; set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add onions and mushrooms to skillet. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper to skillet. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in beef broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in sour cream; cook until heated through.
7. Return beef strips to skillet; stir to combine with sauce.
8. Serve over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes.
Beef and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
A twist on the classic lasagna, these beef and spinach lasagna rolls are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup lasagna noodles
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in spinach and marinara sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Roll cooked lasagna noodles with the beef and spinach mixture, placing them seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Top each roll with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This quick and savory stir-fry is a great way to cook up a delicious meal with minimal fuss. With tender beef, crunchy cabbage, and aromatic spices, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame 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 and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and sesame oil to the pan and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the cabbage to the pan and stir-fry until it starts to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Cheese Empanadas
These savory empanadas are a twist on traditional Latin American pastries, filled with tender beef and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick snack or as part of a meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a pan over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Roll out the empanada dough to desired thickness.
5. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges together with a fork to seal.
7. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Zucchini Boats
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and healthy recipe that combines tender beef and crispy zucchini boats. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
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 and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with cooked beef mixture and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Place boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Sweet Potato Curry
This hearty curry combines tender beef with sweet potatoes and a blend of aromatic spices, perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as chuck or round), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
5. Add sweet potatoes, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return beef to pot and stir to coat with curry mixture.
7. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 2-3 hours or until sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Beef and Eggplant Moussaka
Moussaka is a classic Greek dish that combines rich flavors of beef, eggplant, and creamy bechamel sauce. This recipe adds an extra layer of depth with the addition of tender beef and roasted eggplant.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Grease eggplant slices with olive oil and roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
5. In a separate baking dish, create layers of beef mixture, roasted eggplant, and bechamel sauce, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Pasta Bolognese
This classic Italian dish is a hearty and flavorful combination of tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. With its comforting aroma and satisfying taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 500g ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 250g spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer while pasta cooks, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti and bolognese sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines savory beef and quinoa with fresh herbs for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, hollowed out
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 cooked quinoa, parsley, and cheese to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each tomato with the beef-quinoa mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Lentil Soup with Herbs
This classic soup recipe combines the tender flavors of beef and lentils with a blend of aromatic herbs, creating a comforting and nourishing meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Caramelized Onion Flatbread
Savory beef and sweet caramelized onions come together on a crispy flatbread, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 store-bought or homemade flatbread (about 12 inches in diameter)
– Optional: crumbled blue cheese, chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil, garlic, and onions. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Spread beef mixture on flatbread, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Garnish with blue cheese and parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of ground beef with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic tacos and shepherd’s pie to stuffed peppers and lasagna rolls, there’s something for everyone. Spice up your meals with dishes like beef and rice casserole or beef and broccoli stir-fry. Treat yourself to comforting casseroles like beef and potato hash skillet or beef and mushroom stroganoff. And don’t forget the sweet treats – try beef and cheese empanadas or beef and zucchini boats! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to please.
