Ground beef is a staple in many kitchens due to its versatility, ease of cooking, and ability to work with countless flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a family, prepping for a busy week, or hosting friends for dinner, ground beef can be the base of a delicious meal. In this article, we’ve compiled 30 mouthwatering ground beef recipes that you absolutely need to try. From classic comfort food to creative twists on international dishes, these recipes are sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
1. Classic Beef Tacos
Tacos are a go-to dinner for many, and they’re especially easy to make with ground beef. Brown the beef with taco seasoning, and top with your favorite fresh ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and salsa. Serve in soft or hard taco shells for a fun and customizable meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 12 taco shells
- Lettuce, cheese, salsa, and sour cream
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Drain excess fat and add taco seasoning, following package directions.
- Serve in taco shells and top with your favorite fillings.
2. Beef Stroganoff
Ground beef makes a great alternative to traditional beef stroganoff, offering the same rich, creamy texture. This comforting dish features tender beef in a creamy mushroom sauce served over egg noodles.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Egg noodles
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and add mushrooms.
- Stir in the soup and sour cream, simmering until heated through.
- Serve over cooked egg noodles.
3. Spaghetti Bolognese
This classic Italian dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner. The ground beef is simmered in a rich tomato sauce with garlic, onions, and Italian herbs, served over a bowl of spaghetti.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- Garlic, basil, and oregano
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic.
- Add crushed tomatoes, herbs, and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Serve over spaghetti
4. Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
A comforting casserole with ground beef, rice, and cheese, all baked together for a satisfying meal. This is an easy, one-pan dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 can diced tomatoes
Instructions:
- Cook the rice and ground beef together in a skillet.
- Stir in the tomatoes and cheese, then transfer to a casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
5. Beef Enchiladas
Ground beef is a perfect filling for enchiladas, providing a savory and hearty dish. Wrapped in corn tortillas, then smothered in red sauce and cheese, these enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 can enchilada sauce
- Shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef and season with chili powder and cumin.
- Fill tortillas with beef, roll up, and place in a baking dish.
- Pour enchilada sauce over the top, sprinkle with cheese, and bo
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a healthy and filling meal that’s easy to make. Ground beef, rice, and spices are stuffed into bell peppers and baked in marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 jar marinara sauce
Instructions:
- Cook the ground beef and rice together.
- Hollow out the bell peppers and stuff them with the beef and rice mixture.
- Pour marinara sauce over the peppers and bake for 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
7. Beef and Vegetable Soup
A hearty and healthy soup made with ground beef and a variety of vegetables. It’s perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot.
- Add vegetables, broth, and tomatoes, then simmer for 30 minutes.
8. Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are a messy but delicious sandwich that’s made with ground beef in a tangy tomato sauce. Perfect for casual dinners or game day.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
Instructions:
- Brown the beef and onions in a skillet.
- Add ketchup and mustard, simmer for 15 minutes.
- Serve on buns.
9. Beef Meatballs
Ground beef makes the perfect meatball base, offering great flavor and texture. These meatballs can be served with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or enjoyed on their own.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup parmesan
Instructions:
- Mix ground beef with egg, breadcrumbs, and parmesan.
- Form into meatballs and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
10. Ground Beef Chili
Chili is a comforting and hearty dish, and when made with ground beef, it becomes even more flavorful. With a spicy kick, this chili is perfect for a cold day or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 can kidney beans
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- Chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic.
- Add beans, tomatoes, and spices, then simmer for 30 minutes.
11. Beef Empanadas
These savory pastries are filled with seasoned ground beef and baked until golden and crispy. A perfect appetizer or main dish that’s sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 package empanada dough
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 tbsp cumin
Instructions:
- Cook the ground beef with onions and spices.
- Fill the empanada dough with the beef mixture, fold, and seal.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
12. Beef and Potato Skillet
This one-pan meal features ground beef, diced potatoes, and seasonings, all cooked together for a quick and hearty dish. It’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 large potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef and onions in a skillet.
- Add the diced potatoes and seasonings, then cook until potatoes are tender.
13. Beef Quesadillas
Ground beef makes a great filling for quesadillas, offering a savory option with melted cheese in every bite. Perfect for a quick meal or snack!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 4 flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup salsa
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef and season with taco seasoning.
- Place beef and cheese in tortillas, then cook on a skillet until golden brown.
- Serve with salsa.
14. Beef and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
These bite-sized appetizers are made by stuffing mushroom caps with seasoned ground beef and cheese. A delightful snack or party dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 large mushroom caps
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef and season with garlic powder.
- Stuff the mushroom caps with the beef mixture, then top with cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
15. Beef Tater Tot Casserole
A comforting casserole with seasoned ground beef, creamy soup, and crispy tater tots on top. This one-pan meal is easy to prepare and a crowd favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 bag tater tots
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Cook the ground beef and layer in a casserole dish.
- Top with soup, cheese, and tater tots, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
16. Beef Tacos Salad
A light and healthy option that combines the flavors of a taco with the freshness of a salad. Ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite taco toppings make for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 head lettuce, chopped
- 1 tomato, diced
- Shredded cheese, salsa, and sour cream
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef and season with taco seasoning.
- Combine beef with lettuce, tomatoes, and toppings in a bowl.
17. Ground Beef Tacos with Cilantro Lime Rice
Enhance your tacos with a flavorful cilantro lime rice as a side dish. The perfect pairing for seasoned ground beef in soft taco shells.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup rice
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
- Cook rice and stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
- Prepare tacos with seasoned ground beef and serve with cilantro lime rice.
18. Ground Beef and Vegetable Stir Fry
This quick and healthy stir fry is made with ground beef and a variety of fresh vegetables. It’s a great low-carb option and packs a punch of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add vegetables and stir-fry until tender.
- Stir in soy sauce and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
19. Ground Beef Pizza
Who says pizza can’t be made with ground beef? This pizza is loaded with savory beef and topped with all your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 pizza crust
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Cook the ground beef and spread it over the pizza crust.
- Top with sauce, cheese, and any other toppings you desire.
- Bake according to pizza crust instructions.
20. Beef Wellington Bites
Mini versions of the classic Beef Wellington, these savory bites are filled with ground beef, mushrooms, and wrapped in puff pastry.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 package puff pastry
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef and mushrooms together.
- Wrap the beef mixture in puff pastry and bake until golden brown.
Ready to Get Cooking?
Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, these ground beef recipes have something for everyone. Start experimenting with these delicious dishes tonight and elevate your cooking game!
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