Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? You’re not alone! Many families struggle with what to whip up for dinner on busy weeknights. That’s why I created this post focused on ground beef dinner recipes that are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. Ground beef is a fantastic ingredient to have on hand. It’s affordable, versatile, and can be transformed into countless delicious meals in no time.
If you’re a busy parent, a student, or anyone juggling a hectic schedule, this collection is for you. You care about serving hearty meals that your family will love, without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you want to impress the kids or need a cozy meal after a long day, you’ll find something here to satisfy everyone at the table.
Get ready to explore 17 fantastic recipes! Each one is designed to be family-friendly, easy to prepare, and perfect for those nights when you need to whip up dinner in a hurry. From one-pot wonders to classic favorites, you’ll discover ground beef meals that fit your lifestyle. Let’s dig in and make weeknight dinners fun again!
Key Takeaways
– This collection features 17 ground beef dinner recipes perfect for busy weeknights, ensuring you can get dinner on the table quickly.
– Each recipe is designed to be family-friendly, catering to picky eaters while still being nutritious and satisfying.
– Many of these meals are one-pot recipes, making cleanup a breeze and saving you valuable time.
– These recipes are also budget-friendly, helping you to save money on groceries while still enjoying delicious food.
– Get ready for a variety of options, from classic chili to cheesy taco pasta, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
1. Classic One-Pot Chili
Craving something warm and comforting to beat the evening chill? A hearty bowl of chili can be just the ticket. This one-pot chili made with ground beef is rich in flavor and nutrition, bringing together beans, tomatoes, and spices in a delightful mix that warms both the body and soul.
Not only is it easy to prepare, but you can also adjust the spice level to fit your family’s taste. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a meal that truly satisfies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
– 1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained
– 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
2. Add onions and garlic; sauté until soft.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Adjust seasonings if necessary and serve hot.
FAQs:
– Can I use turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey works well too.
– How can I make it vegetarian? Omit the meat and add extra beans or veggies instead.
2. Cheesy Taco Pasta
Are you in the mood for something that combines the best of both worlds? This cheesy taco pasta perfectly merges the fun of tacos with the comfort of pasta, making it a hit for family dinners. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in just one pot, which means less mess and more time for relaxation.
The delightful flavors of taco seasoning and creamy cheese create a comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 8 oz pasta (any short variety)
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
– Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
2. Drain excess fat, then add taco seasoning, pasta, beef broth, and corn.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the pasta is tender, remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted.
5. Serve with your favorite toppings.
FAQs:
– Can I use gluten-free pasta? Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
3. Ground Beef Stroganoff
Looking for a quick and easy dinner that feels like a warm hug? This ground beef stroganoff is the answer. It’s creamy, rich, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet simple to prepare.
Served over egg noodles or rice, the tender beef in a creamy sauce with mushrooms and onions makes for a satisfying family meal that will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tbsp flour
– 2 cups egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In the same pot, brown the ground beef with onion and mushrooms.
3. Stir in flour; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add beef broth, bring to a simmer, and cook until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in sour cream; season to taste.
6. Serve over noodles.
FAQs:
– Can I freeze it? Yes, but add the sour cream after reheating for best results.
4. One-Pot Beef and Rice Skillet
Need a simple yet delicious dinner idea? This one-pot beef and rice skillet is an ideal choice for those hectic nights. You can whip it up in just one pan, meaning less fuss and more time to unwind with your family.
The seasoned ground beef combined with fluffy rice and colorful veggies creates a nutritious meal that’s filling and versatile—perfect for using up any leftover vegetables you have lying around.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup rice
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
2. Add rice, broth, bell pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover, simmering for about 18 minutes.
4. Add peas and carrots, cook for another 5 minutes until everything is cooked through.
5. Fluff with a fork and serve.
FAQs:
– Can I make it vegetarian? Yes, replace beef with beans or lentils and adjust cooking times.
5. Ground Beef Casserole
Craving comfort food? This ground beef casserole is just the ticket. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for serving a crowd. Layered with pasta, cheese, and a creamy sauce, it’s an effortless meal that brings all the flavors everyone loves together.
Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option; prepare it the night before and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. The bubbling cheese on top is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow or penne)
– 1 can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then drain excess fat.
3. In a large bowl, combine beef, cooked pasta, soup, corn, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour into a greased baking dish, top with cheese.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
FAQs:
– Can I freeze it? Yes, it freezes well before baking.
6. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Want a taste of takeout without leaving home? This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a quick and healthy option that you can whip up in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy families. Tender beef combined with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce makes not only a delicious meal but also a visually appealing dish that’s sure to impress.
Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that your family will love.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup beef broth
– 3 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp cornstarch
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
2. Add garlic and broccoli; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, mix broth, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
4. Pour sauce into the skillet, cook until thickened.
5. Serve over rice or noodles.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, just add it directly to the pan; cook a bit longer if needed.
7. Beef Enchiladas
Ready to spice up your dinner routine? These delightful beef enchiladas are packed with flavor and can be made quickly thanks to the use of ground beef. The tortillas are filled with a savory mixture and topped with your favorite sauce and cheese, creating a fun, tasty meal.
On those busy nights when you want something delicious and satisfying, these enchiladas are a great choice. Plus, you can customize the toppings to suit your family’s tastes, making it an interactive meal to prepare together.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can enchilada sauce
– 6 tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup black beans (cooked)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown the ground beef with onion in a skillet; drain excess fat.
3. Stir in black beans and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roll beef mixture in tortillas, place in a baking dish, and cover with enchilada sauce and cheese.
5. Bake for 20 minutes until heated through.
FAQs:
– Can I use leftover beef? Absolutely, just heat it up with the sauce before filling the tortillas.
8. Ground Beef Tacos
Taco night is always a hit, and this ground beef tacos recipe will please everyone at the table. Ground beef makes the meal quick and satisfying, delivering the classic taste we all love in just minutes.
Load your tacos with toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and salsa for a personalized touch. It’s a great chance for kids to help assemble their own tacos, too!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 taco seasoning packet
– 8 taco shells
– 1 cup shredded lettuce
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– Salsa for serving
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef and add taco seasoning according to package instructions.
2. Warm taco shells as directed on the package.
3. Fill each shell with seasoned beef, then top with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and salsa.
4. Serve immediately.
FAQs:
– Can I make them ahead of time? You can prep the beef and toppings in advance, but assemble right before serving.
9. Spaghetti Bolognese
Looking for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare? The classic spaghetti bolognese is your answer. This recipe uses ground beef for a rich, meaty sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta, making it a family favorite.
It’s a hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners, and leftovers taste even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 oz)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 8 oz spaghetti
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer, then stir in spaghetti, cover, and cook until pasta is tender.
5. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
FAQs:
– Can I use whole wheat spaghetti? Yes, just adjust cooking times accordingly.
10. Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
Want to make dinner fun and colorful? These ground beef stuffed peppers are a wholesome meal that both kids and adults will enjoy. Each pepper is filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices, then baked until perfection.
Not only are they delicious, but they also look great on the plate! You can prepare them in advance, making them a fantastic option for meal prep when you have a busy week ahead.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut tops off the peppers and remove seeds.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
4. Mix beef with rice, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pepper with the mixture, place in a baking dish, and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.
FAQs:
– Can I use other veggies? Yes, zucchini or mushrooms can be used in the filling.
11. Sloppy Joes
Craving a fun meal that’s a little messy? Sloppy Joes are just the ticket! This ground beef version is quick and easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, sure to satisfy everyone’s hunger.
The savory mixture of beef, onions, and sauce served on soft buns creates a flavorful experience that feels like a treat! Kids can even help assemble their sandwiches, adding to the fun.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
2. Add onion and sauté until clear.
3. Stir in ketchup and Worcestershire sauce; heat through.
4. Serve the mixture on hamburger buns.
FAQs:
– Can I make it ahead? Yes, prepare the mixture and store in the fridge until ready to use.
12. Beef and Vegetable Soup
When the weather gets chilly, a warm bowl of beef and vegetable soup can feel like a hug in a bowl. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover vegetables and is loaded with nutrients and flavor.
The hearty beef broth combined with tender veggies makes for a wonderful meal that you can enjoy any night of the week. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, ideal for busy families.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, corn, green beans)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
– 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme, parsley)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
2. Add broth, mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Adjust seasonings and serve hot.
FAQs:
– Can I freeze this soup? Yes, it freezes well for future meals.
13. Beef Goulash
Looking for a comforting, filling dish? This beef goulash recipe is perfect for busy nights. Packed with flavor from paprika and tomatoes, it’s a great way to use up pasta and ground beef in one delicious meal.
Goulash is satisfying and can stretch to feed a crowd or provide tasty leftovers, making it a fantastic choice for families.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tbsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
2. Add onions and sauté until soft.
3. Stir in macaroni, diced tomatoes, broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until macaroni is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I use other pasta shapes? Yes, any short pasta works great.
14. Beef Fajitas
Want to add some sizzle to your dinner table? These beef fajitas are quick to make and bursting with flavor thanks to the marinated beef and colorful bell peppers. This one-pot recipe is not only delicious but also fun to prepare.
Serve these sizzling fajitas with tortillas and your choice of toppings for a customizable meal that everyone will enjoy. It’s a great way to make dinner interactive for your family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp fajita seasoning
– 8 small tortillas
– Optional toppings: guacamole, salsa, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
2. Add bell peppers, onion, and fajita seasoning; sauté until veggies are tender.
3. Warm tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
4. Serve beef mixture in tortillas with toppings.
FAQs:
– Can I use ground turkey? Yes, it’s a great alternative.
15. Ground Beef Meatballs
Looking for a quick weeknight dinner idea? These ground beef meatballs are ideal, whether you serve them with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or on their own as a snack. They’re simple to make and always a hit with the family.
With their juicy texture and flavor, these meatballs can be seasoned to suit your family’s tastes, and you can make a big batch to freeze for future busy nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix all ingredients until combined.
3. Shape into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
5. Serve with your choice of sauce or on a sub sandwich.
FAQs:
– Can I make them ahead? Yes, they freeze well before or after cooking.
16. Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
In need of a quick and satisfying meal? These beef and cheese quesadillas are perfect for dinner or snack time. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone!
Using ground beef makes preparation a breeze, and you can customize the fillings with your favorite ingredients. Pair them with salsa or guacamole for a fun twist on your meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
– 1 tsp taco seasoning
– Salsa and sour cream for dipping
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning.
2. Heat a separate skillet over medium heat.
3. Layer cheese and beef on half of each tortilla, fold, and cook until golden brown on both sides.
4. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa and sour cream.
FAQs:
– Can I make these ahead? Yes, assemble and store in the fridge until ready to cook.
17. Ground Beef and Potato Hash
Ready for a hearty and rustic dish? This ground beef and potato hash is perfect for a satisfying dinner or even breakfast for dinner! The blend of crispy potatoes with seasoned ground beef creates a wonderfully flavorful meal.
It’s versatile, allowing you to add any vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to reduce waste. Serve with a fried egg on top for a breakfast twist or enjoy it as is for dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups diced potatoes
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
2. Add potatoes, onion, and bell pepper; season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook until potatoes are tender and crisp.
4. Serve hot, topped with a fried egg if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen potatoes? Yes, just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Conclusion
These 17 ground beef dinner recipes are sure to make your weeknights easier and more enjoyable. With delicious flavors and simple one-pot preparations, you can have hearty meals on the table in no time. Whether it’s a classic chili or zesty fajitas, there’s a recipe here for everyone in the family.
So, why not give some of these a try this week? You’ll not only save time but also create wonderful memories around the dinner table.
