Recipes with Ground Beef – Easy & Delicious Meals to Try

Recipes with Ground Beef are among the most versatile and affordable meals you can prepare in your kitchen. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal for the family, ground beef can be used in countless ways. From classic burgers and tacos to healthy lettuce wraps and international dishes, there’s something for everyone.

In this article, we’ll explore delicious and easy recipes with ground beef, along with tips on choosing the best type of ground beef and how to use leftovers efficiently.

Recipes with Ground Beef – Why It’s a Versatile Ingredient

Recipes with Ground Beef: A Kitchen Staple

Ground beef is one of the most popular and versatile ingredients in home cooking. Whether you’re making quick weeknight meals, hearty casseroles, or budget-friendly dishes, ground beef can be used in countless ways. It’s affordable, easy to cook, and packed with protein, making it a staple in kitchens worldwide.

The Benefits of Cooking with Ground Beef

Recipes with ground beef are loved because they are:

• Affordable & Budget-Friendly – Ground beef is a cost-effective protein source, perfect for feeding families without breaking the bank.
• Quick & Easy to Cook – It browns in minutes, making it ideal for fast meals on busy days.
• Works in Many Dishes – Whether it’s tacos, burgers, chili, or casseroles, ground beef can be seasoned and adapted to different flavors.
• High in Protein & Nutrients – A great source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, helping to build muscle and keep you energized.

Different Types of Ground Beef and Their Best Uses

Not all ground beef is the same! Depending on its fat content, some types are better for certain recipes.

The higher the fat content, the juicier the meat, but it also means more grease. Lean ground beef (90/10 or 85/15) is best for healthier recipes, while fattier beef (80/20 or 73/27) adds flavor to comfort foods like burgers and chili.

How to Choose the Best Ground Beef

To make the best recipes with ground beef, follow these tips when buying:

• Check the Color – Fresh ground beef should be bright red. Avoid packages that look gray or brown all over.
• Look at the Fat Percentage – More fat = more flavor. For burgers, go with 80/20. For healthy meals, choose 90/10.
• Buy in Bulk and Freeze – Ground beef can be frozen for up to 4 months, so stock up when it’s on sale!
• Check the Packaging Date – Always choose the freshest package by checking the sell-by date.

Classic Recipes with Ground Beef You Must Try

Ground beef is the star of many classic recipes that have been loved for generations. Whether you want a juicy burger, a comforting meatloaf, or a hearty casserole, these dishes are easy to make and full of flavor.

Juicy Burgers: A Family Favorite

Nothing beats a homemade burger fresh off the grill! Making your own allows you to control the ingredients and seasonings for the perfect taste.

How to Make the Best Ground Beef Burgers

1. Choose the Right Ground Beef – Use 80/20 ground chuck for the best balance of flavor and juiciness.
2. Season Simply – A mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce enhances the beef’s natural taste.
3. Form Patties Gently – Overworking the meat can make burgers tough. Shape them lightly and make a small dent in the center to prevent puffing up.
4. Cook Properly – Grill or pan-fry for 3-4 minutes per side over medium-high heat for a juicy, medium burger.
5. Toast the Buns – A buttered, toasted bun adds texture and helps hold in the juices.

Tasty Variations to Try

• Cheese-Stuffed Burgers – Add a slice of cheese in the center before forming the patty.
• BBQ Bacon Burgers – Top with crispy bacon and barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
• Spicy Jalapeño Burgers – Mix in chopped jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a kick.

Traditional Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Staple

Meatloaf is a classic, hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners. It’s easy to make and can be customized with different flavors.

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix all ingredients until combined (don’t overmix).
3. Shape into a loaf and place on a greased baking sheet.
4. Spread extra ketchup or barbecue sauce on top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until cooked through. Let it rest before slicing.

Meatloaf Variations

• Italian-Style Meatloaf – Add Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
• Spicy Meatloaf – Mix in chopped jalapeños and cayenne pepper.
• BBQ Glazed Meatloaf – Brush with barbecue sauce instead of ketchup.

Quick and Easy Recipes with Ground Beef for Busy Days

When you’re short on time but still want a delicious and satisfying meal, ground beef is the perfect ingredient. It cooks quickly, is easy to season, and pairs well with a variety of flavors. Here are two quick and easy ground beef recipes that you can make in under 30 minutes!

15-Minute Beef Tacos

Tacos are a go-to meal when you need something fast, tasty, and kid-friendly. This recipe takes just 15 minutes and is perfect for a quick dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade: chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt)
• 1/2 cup water
• 8 small taco shells
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• Sour cream and salsa (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the beef – Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart until browned.
2. Season the meat – Drain excess grease, then stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
3. Assemble the tacos – Fill taco shells with seasoned beef and top with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Quick Taco Variations:

• Soft Tacos – Use flour tortillas instead of crispy shells.
• Low-Carb Option – Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
• Spicy Beef Tacos – Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef.

One-Pan Ground Beef Stir-Fry

If you’re craving something savory and filling, this one-pan stir-fry is packed with flavor and comes together in 20 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (90/10 for less grease)
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Brown the beef – Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the beef, and cook for 5-6 minutes until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté the vegetables – Add garlic, bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli. Stir-fry for 5 minutes until tender.
3. Make the sauce – In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and red pepper flakes.
4. Combine and cook – Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot over cooked rice and enjoy!

Stir-Fry Variations:

• Low-Carb Option – Serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
• Extra Protein – Add a scrambled egg or top with a fried egg.
• Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped peanuts.

Hearty and Filling Ground Beef Recipes

Sometimes, you need a satisfying, comforting meal that will keep you full for hours. Ground beef is perfect for making rich, hearty dishes that the whole family will love. Here are two filling ground beef recipes that are perfect for dinner.

Classic Beef Chili for Cozy Nights

Beef chili is warm, flavorful, and packed with protein. It’s perfect for a cold night or game day and tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the beef – In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic – Add chopped onion and garlic to the beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the remaining ingredients – Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato sauce, beef broth, and all seasonings.
4. Simmer – Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot – Enjoy with shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips.

Variations:

• Spicy Chili – Add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Thicker Chili – Mash some of the beans or add a bit of cornmeal to thicken.
• Slow Cooker Option – Brown the beef, then cook everything in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.

Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole

This easy beef casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for meal prep and freezes well for later.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 8 oz pasta (penne or elbow)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta – Boil pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the beef – In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until fully browned. Drain excess grease.
3. Make the sauce – Add tomato sauce, beef broth, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to the beef. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Mix everything – In a baking dish, combine cooked pasta, beef mixture, and sour cream. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
5. Bake – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations:

• Mexican Style – Add taco seasoning and top with salsa and jalapeños.
• Veggie-Packed – Stir in chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
• Make it Creamier – Mix in cream cheese or extra sour cream for a richer texture.

Healthy Recipes with Ground Beef

Ground beef doesn’t have to be heavy or greasy. With the right ingredients and cooking methods, you can make healthy, protein-packed meals that are low in fat and high in nutrients. Here are two delicious and healthy recipes using ground beef.

Lean Beef Lettuce Wraps

These lettuce wraps are light, fresh, and full of flavor. They’re a great alternative to traditional tacos or sandwiches and make for a low-carb meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (90/10 or leaner)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (or teriyaki sauce for sweetness)
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 8 large lettuce leaves (romaine or butter lettuce)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the beef – In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
2. Add vegetables and sauce – Stir in onion, garlic, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and ginger. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
3. Assemble the wraps – Spoon the beef mixture into lettuce leaves and top with shredded carrots and bell peppers.
4. Garnish and serve – Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve immediately.

Variations:

• Spicy Version – Add sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat.
• Extra Crunch – Top with chopped peanuts or almonds.
• Low-Sodium – Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef

This healthy dish is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. Bell peppers make a nutritious and colorful base for a flavorful ground beef filling.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb ground beef (85/15 or leaner)
• 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 small onion, chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the peppers – Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the filling – In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Add diced tomatoes, rice, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Stuff the peppers – Fill each bell pepper with the beef mixture and place in a baking dish.
4. Bake – Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for another 5 minutes until melted.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations:

• Low-Carb Option – Use cauliflower rice instead of brown rice.
• Mexican Style – Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning.
• Cheesy Version – Mix in cream cheese for extra creaminess.

International Recipes Using Ground Beef

Ground beef is used in many cuisines around the world, creating flavorful and unique dishes. From spicy Mexican enchiladas to savory Asian rice bowls, here are two delicious international recipes you can make at home!

Mexican-Inspired Beef Enchiladas

Enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish filled with seasoned ground beef, wrapped in tortillas, and topped with a rich sauce and melted cheese.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the beef – In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease. Add onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Cook for 3 minutes.
2. Assemble the enchiladas – Spoon beef into each tortilla, roll them up, and place in a baking dish.
3. Add sauce and cheese – Pour enchilada sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle cheese on top.
4. Bake – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve hot – Garnish with sour cream and chopped cilantro.

Variations:

• Extra Spicy – Add chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture.
• Low-Carb Option – Use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps.
• Vegetable-Packed – Stir in black beans or diced bell peppers.

Asian-Style Beef and Rice Bowls

This quick and flavorful Asian dish is perfect for a weeknight meal and pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (90/10)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp ginger, grated
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the beef – In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Make the sauce – In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
3. Combine everything – Pour sauce over the beef, stir well, and cook for 3 more minutes.
4. Serve – Spoon beef over rice and top with carrots, green onions, and sesame seeds.

Variations:

• Low-Carb Option – Serve over cauliflower rice.
• Extra Crunch – Add chopped peanuts or cashews.
• More Veggies – Stir in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What can I make with a pound of ground beef?

A pound of ground beef is enough to make a variety of meals, including:

• Tacos – Quick and easy, just add taco seasoning and serve in tortillas.
• Spaghetti Bolognese – Brown the beef, add tomato sauce, and serve over pasta.
• Sloppy Joes – Mix with ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and serve on buns.
• Meatballs – Combine with breadcrumbs and spices, then bake or pan-fry.
• Burgers – Form into patties and grill or cook on the stovetop.

2. What delicious meal can I make with ground beef?

Some of the most flavorful and popular ground beef meals include:

• Classic Beef Chili – Slow-simmered with beans, tomatoes, and spices.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers – Baked with rice, cheese, and seasonings.
• Shepherd’s Pie – Ground beef topped with mashed potatoes and baked.
• Beef Enchiladas – Wrapped in tortillas and topped with sauce and cheese.
• Korean Beef Bowls – Cooked with soy sauce, honey, and ginger over rice.

3. What is the most popular beef dish?

The most popular ground beef dishes vary by country, but some favorites include:

• Burgers (USA) – Juicy, grilled patties served in buns with toppings.
• Lasagna (Italy) – Layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese.
• Tacos (Mexico) – Seasoned ground beef wrapped in corn or flour tortillas.
• Meatballs (Sweden & Italy) – Served with pasta or gravy.
• Beef Stir-Fry (Asia) – Cooked with vegetables and soy-based sauces.

4. What do you use 73% ground beef for?

Ground beef with 73% lean meat and 27% fat is best for:

• Juicy Burgers – The higher fat content keeps them moist and flavorful.
• Chili or Meat Sauces – The fat enhances richness, but it should be drained.
• Meatloaf or Meatballs – Fat keeps them tender, but mixing with breadcrumbs helps absorb excess grease.
• Sloppy Joes – The moisture from the fat helps create a rich and flavorful sauce.

Conclusion: Enjoy Cooking with Ground Beef!

Recipes with Ground Beef are some of the most versatile, budget-friendly, and delicious meals you can make. you can use in your kitchen. Whether you’re making quick weeknight meals, hearty casseroles, or international dishes, ground beef is an essential staple.