15 Delicious Ground Beef Recipes You Need to Try

Ground beef is a weeknight hero, offering quick and delicious meals that everyone loves. Whether you’re craving classic comfort dishes or something with a twist, these 15 recipes are sure to spark some culinary inspiration. Get ready to whip up some tasty beefy goodness that will satisfy your hunger without breaking a sweat!

Beef and Cheese Quesadillas with Salsa Verde

Beef and cheese quesadillas are a fun and delicious way to enjoy ground beef. These simple, cheesy delights are perfect for a quick meal or snack and come together in no time. The combination of seasoned beef and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla, creates a satisfying bite that everyone will love.

Pair these quesadillas with a zesty salsa verde for a fresh kick. The bright flavors from the salsa complement the rich filling perfectly, making every bite a little fiesta. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
4 large flour tortillas
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Salsa verde for dipping

Instructions

Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat. Stir in chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
Assemble Quesadillas: Place a tortilla in a clean skillet. On one half, layer cooked beef, cheese, and cilantro (if using). Fold the tortilla over to cover the filling.
Cook Quesadillas: Cook on medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
Serve: Cut quesadillas into wedges and serve with salsa verde on the side for dipping.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Rice

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish that brings together the savory flavors of ground beef, rice, and spices, all wrapped in the delicious crunch of fresh bell peppers. This recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of flavors makes each bite satisfying, and the pop of color from the peppers makes the dish visually appealing too!

The filling is customizable, allowing you to add your favorite herbs, spices, or even different vegetables to suit your taste. This meal not only tastes great but also provides a balanced mix of protein and carbs, making it a wholesome choice for the whole family.

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Halve the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish.
In a skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture. Top with shredded cheese.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Crispy Beef Empanadas with Dipping Sauce

Crispy beef empanadas are a delightful dish that brings a satisfying crunch and savory flavor to your table. With a flaky golden crust and a flavorful ground beef filling, these empanadas make for a perfect snack or meal. They are easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite spices and ingredients, making them a hit at any gathering.

The combination of the tender beef and crispy pastry creates a wonderful contrast in texture, and when paired with a zesty dipping sauce, they become simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a tasty treat, these empanadas are sure to please.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 package of pre-made empanada dough
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Vegetable oil for frying
Your favorite dipping sauce (like salsa or chimichurri)

Instructions

Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the ground beef, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through. Let it cool slightly.
Prepare the Empanadas: Roll out the empanada dough and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges with a fork.
Fry the Empanadas: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the empanadas in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Serve: Enjoy your crispy beef empanadas warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

Savory Beef Stroganoff over Egg Noodles

Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort food that’s both hearty and rich in flavor. The tender pieces of beef, combined with creamy mushroom sauce, create a delicious dish that’s perfect over a bed of soft egg noodles. This meal is not only satisfying but also simple to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

The balance of savory beef and creamy sauce, along with a hint of tang from the sour cream, makes each bite delightful. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this recipe is easy to follow and promises to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
12 oz egg noodles
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Noodles: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until soft. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add Mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until they soften.
Make the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
Stir in Sour Cream: Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked egg noodles in the sauce until well coated. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Classic Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa

Classic beef tacos are a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of Mexico right to your table. With perfectly seasoned ground beef and fresh toppings, these tacos create a wonderful combination of textures and tastes. They’re simple to make, making them a favorite for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

The rich flavor of the beef pairs perfectly with the crunch of fresh veggies and zesty salsa. Serve them with warm tortillas and a squeeze of lime for a burst of freshness. Everyone can customize their tacos just the way they like, making them a fun and interactive meal!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
8 small corn tortillas
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup fresh salsa
Cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and onion. Sauté until the onion is softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
Season: Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until spices are well blended.
Warm the Tortillas: In a separate pan, warm the corn tortillas one by one until they are soft and pliable.
Assemble Tacos: Place a generous amount of the beef mixture onto each tortilla. Top with avocado slices, fresh salsa, and cilantro.
Serve: Enjoy with lime wedges on the side to add a zesty kick!

Savory Beef Burgers with Homemade Toppings

Nothing beats a juicy beef burger, especially when you can customize it with your favorite toppings. These burgers are packed with flavor and are incredibly easy to make at home. The combination of grilled beef patties and fresh toppings makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving a delicious burger, this recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Plus, with homemade toppings, you can personalize each burger to suit your taste. From crisp lettuce to ripe tomatoes and tangy pickles, the possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (80/20 for optimal juiciness)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
4 hamburger buns
4 slices of cheese (optional)
Leafy lettuce
Tomato slices
Sliced red onion
Pickles

Instructions

Prepare the Patties: In a bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and form into four equal-sized patties.
Grill the Burgers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium, or longer to reach your desired doneness. If using cheese, add a slice on top of each patty in the last minute of cooking to melt.
Toast the Buns: While the burgers are cooking, place the buns on the grill for about a minute until lightly toasted.
Assemble the Burgers: Place a beef patty on the bottom half of each bun. Top with lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, and pickles. Add any additional sauces or toppings you prefer.
Serve: Place the top half of the bun on the assembled burger and enjoy your homemade creation!

Hearty Beef and Vegetable Chili

Hearty Beef and Vegetable Chili is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with ground beef, colorful veggies, and aromatic spices, this chili offers a rich and satisfying flavor that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

This chili is not just delicious; it’s versatile too! You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice, and top it off with your favorite garnishes like cheese or sour cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
Add the minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve hot, garnished with cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Ground Beef and Spinach Lasagna

Ground Beef and Spinach Lasagna is a hearty dish filled with layers of rich flavors. The combination of seasoned ground beef, sautéed spinach, and creamy cheese creates a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

This recipe is simple to make, requiring just a bit of prep and layering before it goes into the oven. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

9 lasagna noodles
1 pound ground beef
2 cups fresh spinach
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
15 ounces ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
To assemble, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Layer 3 noodles, half the ricotta mixture, half the beef and spinach, and one-third of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers, ending with noodles topped with remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Savory Beef and Mushroom Stir-Fry

This savory beef and mushroom stir-fry is a delicious blend of flavors that come together in no time. The combination of tender ground beef and juicy mushrooms creates a satisfying dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s easy to whip up using simple ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for any home cook.

With a medley of colorful bell peppers and a hint of green onion, each bite bursts with flavor. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s get started with the recipe!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
3 green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cooked rice

Instructions

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Add mushrooms and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, mixing well to coat all the ingredients.
Stir in green onions and cook for an additional minute. Serve the stir-fry over hot cooked rice.

Ground Beef Stroganoff Skillet

Ground Beef Stroganoff Skillet is a delicious and comforting dish that combines rich flavors with a simple preparation. The savory beef pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce, creating a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. This recipe is not only quick to make, but it also brings a hearty touch to your dinner table.

What makes this dish even better is that it comes together in a single skillet, making clean-up a breeze. The combination of tender egg noodles coated in a luscious sauce makes every bite a delight. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces egg noodles
1 cup beef broth
1 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Noodles: In a large pot, boil water and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add the Sauce: Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
Finish with Sour Cream: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream until well combined. Add the cooked noodles back into the skillet and toss until everything is coated.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious and easy Ground Beef Stroganoff!

Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet

This Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and simple to make. It pairs the hearty, savory flavor of ground beef with the fresh, light taste of zucchini, making it a balanced dish for any night of the week.

In just a short time, you can have a warm and delicious meal ready to share. The combination of spices adds a kick, while the zucchini provides great texture and nutrition. Plus, clean-up is a breeze!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the sliced zucchini, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Flavorful Beef and Potato Casserole

This beef and potato casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. With savory ground beef layered beneath tender potatoes and topped with a crispy crust, it’s a meal that everyone will love. It’s easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.

The combination of juicy beef, creamy potatoes, and a crunchy topping creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Plus, it can be prepared ahead of time, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups diced potatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
In a large bowl, mix the browned beef with diced potatoes, beef broth, salt, and pepper.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the beef and potato mixture.
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter and mix well. Spread this mixture evenly over the cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious beef and potato casserole!

Beef Bolognese Sauce for Pasta

Beef Bolognese sauce is a classic Italian dish that brings rich flavors and a comforting touch to any pasta night. This sauce combines ground beef with tomatoes, herbs, and vegetables, resulting in a hearty mixture that’s perfect for coating your favorite pasta. It’s simple to make, taking just a bit of time to simmer and develop those delicious flavors.

The taste is both savory and slightly sweet, thanks to the tomatoes and vegetables. It pairs wonderfully with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even a good old-fashioned lasagna. Making Bolognese sauce at home not only fills your kitchen with enticing aromas but also gives you the confidence that comes from cooking a timeless dish.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup red wine (optional)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup whole milk
Pasta of your choice, cooked according to package instructions
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and wine (if using). Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, simmer longer if you have the time.
Finally, stir in the milk and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Serve the sauce over the cooked pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Beef and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

Beef and cheese stuffed mushrooms are a delightful treat that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. The earthy taste of the mushrooms combined with savory ground beef and melted cheese creates a satisfying dish perfect for appetizers or snacks. This recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare, making it ideal for both casual gatherings and cozy family dinners.

The juicy beef filling enhances the mushrooms’ natural umami taste, while the gooey cheese adds a rich, comforting element. Plus, these stuffed mushrooms are easy to customize, allowing you to add your favorite herbs and spices for an extra kick!

Ingredients

12 large mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed
1 pound ground beef
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, cooking until the beef is browned.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the cheese until melted.
Stuff each mushroom cap generously with the beef mixture and place them on a baking sheet.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of each stuffed mushroom.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious beef and cheese stuffed mushrooms!

Spicy Beef Kofta with Yogurt Sauce

Spicy beef kofta is a delightful dish that packs a punch of flavor. These juicy meat skewers are seasoned with aromatic spices, making them irresistible. Paired with a refreshing yogurt sauce, they create a perfect balance of heat and coolness. This dish is not just tasty; it’s also easy to prepare, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.

Whether you grill them on a skewer or pan-fry, these kofta are sure to impress. With a mix of spices like cumin and coriander, each bite is bursting with flavor. Serve them alongside warm pita bread, fresh veggies, and the yogurt sauce for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Wooden skewers, soaked in water
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
Divide the meat mixture into equal portions and shape each into an elongated patty around the soaked skewers.
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the kofta for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and browned.
While the kofta cooks, mix yogurt, lemon juice, and mint in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the kofta hot, drizzled with yogurt sauce, and accompanied by pita bread and fresh vegetables.