Recipes with Ground Beef – Easy & Delicious Meals to Try

recipes with ground beef are some of the most economical and adaptable dishes you can make in your kitchen. Ground beef has many uses, whether you’re preparing a filling family meal or a quick weeknight supper. There is something for everyone, ranging from traditional tacos and burgers to nutritious lettuce wraps and international cuisine.

In this post, we’ll look at some tasty and simple recipes with ground beef, as well as advice on how to make the most of leftovers and pick the best ground beef.

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 Recipes with Ground Beef

Sometimes, you need a satisfying, comforting meal that will keep you full for hours. That’s where recipes with ground beef come in. Ground beef is budget-friendly, protein-rich, and incredibly versatile. Whether it’s a cozy chili or a cheesy pasta bake, these dishes are family favorites for good reason.

Here are two hearty recipes with ground beef that are perfect for dinner or meal prep.

🍲 Classic Beef Chili for Cozy Nights

One of the most comforting recipes with ground beef, beef chili is warm, rich, and perfect for game day or chilly evenings. It’s even better the next day, making it great for leftovers.

📝 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 and cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add remaining ingredients – Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, tomato sauce, broth, and seasonings.

4. Simmer – Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Serve hot – Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips.

🔁 Variations:

• Spicy Chili – Add jalapeños or cayenne for heat.

• Thicker Chili – Mash some beans or stir in cornmeal.

• Slow Cooker Option – Brown beef, then slow cook everything for 6–8 hours on low.

This is one of those easy recipes with ground beef you’ll make over and over again.

🧀 Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole

This creamy, cheesy pasta casserole is a must-try when looking for quick recipes with ground beef. It’s great for leftovers and freezes beautifully.

📝 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 until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the beef – In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess grease.

3. Make the sauce – Stir in tomato sauce, broth, and seasonings. Simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Combine everything – Mix pasta, beef sauce, and sour cream in a baking dish. Top with cheese.

5. Bake – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

🔁 Variations:

• Mexican Style – Add taco seasoning, salsa, and jalapeños.

• Veggie-Packed – Mix in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.

• Creamier Option – Add cream cheese or extra sour cream.

This casserole is one of those family-friendly recipes with ground beef that checks all the boxes: creamy, cheesy, and filling.
Don’t miss our flavorful ground beef and mashed potatoes for another easy dinner idea using ground beef.

Healthy Recipes with Ground Beef

Ground beef doesn’t have to be heavy or greasy. With the right ingredients and cooking methods, you can enjoy recipes with ground beef that are healthy, protein-packed, and full of flavor. These dishes use lean beef, fresh vegetables, and smart cooking techniques to create meals that satisfy without the extra fat.

Below are two healthy recipes with ground beef perfect for anyone looking to eat well while enjoying classic flavors.

🥬 Lean Beef Lettuce Wraps

These light and refreshing lettuce wraps are a perfect low-carb alternative to tacos or sandwiches. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, they’re one of the easiest healthy recipes with ground beef for busy weeknights.

📝 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 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, brown the ground beef. 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.

• Extra Crunch – Top with chopped peanuts or almonds.

• Low-Sodium Option – Use coconut aminos or reduced-sodium soy sauce.

🌶️ Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef

Bell peppers are loaded with nutrients and make the perfect edible vessel for this hearty beef and rice filling. This is one of the most balanced recipes with ground beef, combining protein, fiber, and vitamins into a single colorful dish.

📝 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 tops off the peppers and remove seeds. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the filling – In a skillet, brown ground beef and onion. Add tomatoes, rice, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Stuff the peppers – Fill each pepper with the beef mixture and place in a baking dish.

4. Bake – Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover, top with cheese, and bake 5 more minutes until melted.

🔁 Variations:

• • Low-Carb Option – Use cauliflower rice instead of brown rice.

  • Mexican Style – Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning.

  • Cheesy Version – Stir in cream cheese for a creamy texture.

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

A traditional Mexican dish, enchiladas are made with seasoned ground beef, tortillas, and a mixture of melted cheese and sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of 85/15 ground beef
• One tiny onion, chopped
• Two minced garlic cloves
• One teaspoon of cumin
• One teaspoon of chili powder
• Half a teaspoon of paprika
• One can (15 oz) Enchilada sauce
• Eight tiny corn or flour tortillas
• One cup of cheddar cheese, shredded
• Half a cup of sour cream (to serve)
• Two tablespoons of 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

Looking for quick, flavorful recipes with ground beef that aren’t boring? These Asian-style beef and rice bowls are the perfect solution. Packed with bold flavors, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights and can be served with 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, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

2. Make the sauce – In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes.

3. Combine – Pour the sauce over the beef, mix well, and let simmer for about 3 minutes.

4. Serve – Spoon the beef mixture over rice and garnish with shredded carrots, green onions, and sesame seeds.

🔄 Tasty Variations

• Low-Carb Option – Serve over cauliflower rice for a lighter version of your favorite recipes with ground beef.

• Extra Crunch – Top with chopped peanuts or cashews.

• More Veggies – Add broccoli florets, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra nutrients and color.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

With just one pound, you can make a variety of recipes with ground beef that are perfect for quick dinners or meal prep. Try making tacos, beef stir-fry, classic spaghetti, sloppy joes, or even mini meatloaf muffins. These ground beef recipes are budget-friendly and full of flavor.

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

You can try a ton of delectable recipes with ground beef! Hearty chili, stuffed bell peppers, creamy beef pasta, and cheesy ground beef casseroles are popular choices. recipes with ground beef are full of comforting flavors and ideal for quick weeknight meals.

3. What is the most popular beef dish?

Classic spaghetti with meat sauce, a mainstay in many recipes with ground beef collections, is one of the most well-liked beef dishes in the United States. Burgers, chili, and beef tacos are other favorites. These classic dishes demonstrate the versatility and satisfaction of ground beef recipes.

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

73% ground beef has a higher fat content, making it ideal for juicy burgers, meatloaf, and tacos. Many recipes with ground beef that require browning and draining work perfectly with this blend. It’s flavorful and budget-friendly—just be sure to drain the excess fat for lighter dishes.

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.