Easy Ground Beef Recipes: Quick Dinner Ideas

Ever wonder how to make a tasty meal from a pound of ground beef in minutes? Look no further! Our easy ground beef recipes will change your weeknight dinners. They offer quick, delicious dishes that are perfect for families and won’t empty your wallet or your schedule.

Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that makes many quick and tasty meals. Whether you want a hearty taco soup or a cheesy potato casserole, we have you covered. These recipes are easy to make and full of flavor, becoming family favorites quickly.

Imagine making a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes or less. That’s what these easy beef recipes offer. They’re ideal for busy weeknights when you want a homemade dinner fast. With simple ingredients and quick prep, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Key Takeaways

• Ground beef recipes offer quick and budget-friendly dinner solutions
• Most dishes can be prepared in 30 minutes or less
• Recipes range from one-pan skillet meals to hearty casseroles
• Simple ingredients and minimal prep time are key features
• These easy beef recipes are designed to please the whole family

Stuffed Pepper Skillet: A 30-Minute Meal

Craving a tasty ground beef recipe but in a hurry? This stuffed pepper skillet is your quick fix. It’s ready in 30 minutes and packed with flavor.

Ingredients for Quick Stuffed Pepper Skillet

This dinner idea is simple and uses ingredients you probably have at home. You’ll need:

• 1 pound 90% lean ground beef
• Diced sweet yellow onion and minced garlic
• Tomato paste and fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• Diced red and green bell peppers
• Long-grain white rice and low-sodium beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika
• Shredded pepper Jack and sharp cheddar cheese

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Begin by browning the ground beef in a 12-inch cast iron skillet. Add onions, garlic, and peppers. Mix in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, rice, and broth. Season with Worcestershire sauce and spices.

Simmer for 20 minutes, then top with cheese and broil until melted.

Variations and Substitutions

This dish is versatile and can be customized. Swap ground turkey for a leaner choice. Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. For dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. Coconut aminos can replace Worcestershire sauce for gluten-free meals.

This stuffed pepper skillet has a 4.78 out of 5-star rating. It’s a family favorite that freezes well for up to 4 months. Enjoy this hearty meal anytime!

Taco Soup: A Freezer-Friendly Favorite

Taco soup is a hearty dish that brings together the flavors of tacos in a warm soup. It’s great for cold days and meal prep. With just 8 ingredients and 25 minutes of cooking, you can make a savory Southwestern soup for 6 people.

The main ingredient is 1 pound of lean ground beef. It’s mixed with 5 cans of ingredients like tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, pork and beans, kidney beans, and corn. After mixing, the soup cooks for 15 minutes to blend the flavors.

Taco soup is very versatile. You can cook it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or an Instant Pot. For a lighter version, use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. To thicken it, add tomato paste or cornstarch.

• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Portion size: 1 1/2 cups

Top your taco soup with corn tortilla strips, shredded cheddar, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. For more flavor, add avocado, salsa, jalapeños, onions, or a squeeze of lime juice.

This ground beef chili-like soup is great for the freezer. Store it in a labeled gallon-size freezer bag for up to 6 months. It keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Casserole

Looking for hearty ground beef dinner ideas? This cheesy potato and ground beef casserole is a crowd-pleaser. It’s a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Choosing the Right Cream Soup

The foundation of this ground beef casserole is the cream soup. While cream of mushroom is popular, you can experiment with cream of chicken, celery, or potato for different flavors. The quick version uses canned soup, but there’s also a from-scratch option for those who prefer homemade goodness.

Creating the Perfect Crispy Potato Border

The star of this beef recipe is the crispy potato border. Layer thinly sliced potatoes around the edge of your baking dish. They’ll turn golden and crisp, adding a delightful texture contrast to the creamy interior.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dish pairs well with various sides. Try a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for balance. For cheese lovers, mix in Cheddar or Colby Jack, or spice it up with pepper jack. You can even add extra veggies like peas, broccoli, or corn to boost nutrition.

This ground beef casserole is not just delicious but also budget-friendly and flexible. Make it ahead and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months, perfect for meal prep enthusiasts. With 403 calories per serving, it’s a satisfying meal that’ll keep you full and happy.

One-Skillet Beef and Noodles with Bacon

Looking for easy beef recipes that pack a flavorful punch? This one-skillet beef and noodles dish with bacon is a ground beef dinner idea that’ll become a family favorite. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, satisfying meal.

This hearty skillet combines the rich taste of ground beef with the comforting texture of pasta shells. The addition of crispy bacon takes it to the next level, adding a smoky crunch that complements the savory beef perfectly.

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious ground beef recipe:

• 1 pound lean ground beef (96/4)
• 3 slices center cut bacon
• 2 1/2 cups beef broth
• 8 oz pasta shells
• 6 oz shredded Colby Jack or Cheddar cheese

To prepare this easy beef recipe, start by cooking the bacon in a cold pan over medium-high heat. Once crispy, set it aside. Brown the ground beef and onion in the same pan, then add the broth and cook the pasta until just shy of al dente. Mix in your favorite burger sauce and cheese, top with the cooked bacon and remaining cheese, then broil for 3-5 minutes for a golden, bubbly finish.

This one-skillet wonder serves 6 and packs a nutritional punch. Each serving contains 365 calories, 16g of fat, 25g of carbohydrates, and a whopping 26g of protein. It’s a balanced meal that’ll keep you full and satisfied.

“This skillet beef and noodles dish is my go-to for busy nights. It’s quick, delicious, and my kids always ask for seconds!”

With 419 shares, this recipe has proven to be a hit among home cooks looking for easy ground beef recipes. Give it a try and see why it’s become such a popular choice for quick and tasty weeknight dinners.

Spicy Green Enchilada Burritos

Looking for a zesty twist on classic ground beef recipes? These spicy green enchilada burritos are perfect. They mix Mexican flavors with a quick meal idea.

Preparing the Green Enchilada Sauce

Begin by making a tangy green enchilada sauce. Sauté onions in butter, then add flour and chicken broth. Next, mix in green chiles, garlic, oregano, and cumin for more flavor.

Pro tip: Make double the sauce for extra smothering.

Filling Options and Variations

For the filling, cook 1 lb of ground beef with ½ package of mild taco seasoning. Add diced bell peppers and green chilies for crunch and heat. Then, mix in refried beans and Uncle Ben’s Ready Brown Rice for a filling texture.

This base lets you try different variations on traditional ground beef tacos.

• 1 can green enchilada sauce
• 2 cups pepper jack cheese
• ¼ cup sour cream
• Juice of ½ lime

Wrapping and Serving Tips

Use 8 Mission flour tortillas for wrapping. Cook the burritos on a griddle until they’re golden brown. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.

Top with green chile sauce and shredded cheese. Serve with sour cream and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing touch.

30-Minute Skillet Beef and Macaroni

Looking for quick and easy beef recipes? This 30-Minute Skillet Beef and Macaroni is perfect for busy weeknights. It combines ground beef with pasta for a delicious meal in no time.

This recipe serves 5 people generously. Prep takes 10 minutes and cooking is 20 minutes. It has a 4.80 out of 5 rating from 54 votes, showing its popularity.

Key ingredients include:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 16 oz pasta shells
• 3 cups tomato juice
• 1 tbsp each of Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar
• Seasonings like salt, pepper, and dry mustard powder

Brown the beef, then add the ingredients and simmer for 20 minutes. Top with shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for richness.

This recipe is easy to customize. You can use ground turkey or chicken, or add spinach for nutrition. Remember to save some pasta water for the sauce.

This dish has 593 calories per serving, making it great for filling meals. Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for 3 months. It’s perfect for meal prep.

Cheeseburger Quesadillas: A Fusion Delight

Looking for exciting ground beef recipes? Try cheeseburger quesadillas! This dish combines a classic burger with the ease of a quesadilla. It’s a hit with both kids and adults.

To make this meal, you’ll need 1 pound of ground beef, 10 flour tortillas, and 5 cups of shredded Colby jack cheese. The secret sauce is made with mayo, ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish for that burger taste. Add Montreal steak seasoning to the beef for extra flavor.

This recipe makes 4 servings, great for a family dinner. Each quesadilla has 604 calories, 42g of protein, and 31g of carbs. It’s a filling meal ready in just 30 minutes – 5 for prep and 25 for cooking.

For a quick and tasty ground beef dinner, cheeseburger quesadillas are perfect. They’re easy to make, customizable, and great for busy weeknights. Plus, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days or frozen for 2 months, making meal prep easy.

Recipe with Ground Beef: Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

Craving a tasty ground beef pasta dish? This Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta recipe is perfect. It combines the flavors of a cheeseburger with pasta, ideal for busy weeknights.

Choosing the Right Pasta Shape

For this recipe, you can pick from various pasta shapes. Small shells, elbow macaroni, penne, or bow tie noodles work great. Choose a shape that holds the sauce and meat well. We suggest using 1/2 pound of elbow macaroni.

Adding the Perfect Cheese Blend

The cheese blend is key for that cheeseburger flavor. Use 8 oz cubed Velveeta cheese, 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan, and 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar. This mix makes a creamy, flavorful sauce.

Optional Toppings and Garnishes

Add your favorite toppings to Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta. Try diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, or sour cream. For a tangy twist, add Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce.

This one-pot dish is quick to make, ready in 25 minutes. It serves 8 and has 384 calories per serving. It’s a comforting meal that will quickly become a favorite.

Hearty Ground Beef Stew for Cold Nights

When winter gets cold, a warm bowl of ground beef stew is just what you need. This recipe mixes savory ground beef with veggies in a rich broth. It’s perfect for chilly evenings and is a favorite among ground beef dinner ideas.

It uses 80/20 ground beef for more flavor and tenderness. Russet potatoes make the stew creamy and thicken the gravy. Leaving carrots unpeeled adds nutrition. This stew makes 8 servings, great for family meals or meal prep.

Nutritional Information

This ground beef stew is easy to customize. Try these ideas:

• Swap ground turkey or chicken for a leaner choice
• Add green beans, peas, or corn for more veggies
• Use cauliflower instead of potatoes for a low-carb option

For a hands-off approach, cook this stew in a slow cooker. Brown the beef, add all ingredients, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Leftovers stay good for 3-4 days in the fridge or 2-3 months in the freezer. It’s a great pick for busy people looking for simple ground beef recipes.

Skillet Lasagna: No Oven Required

Craving lasagna but short on time? Try this quick skillet lasagna, a delicious ground beef pasta dish ready in 30 minutes. It brings traditional lasagna flavors to your table without needing an oven.

Layering Techniques for Skillet Lasagna

Begin by browning ½ lb ground beef with ½ cup diced onion and 2 garlic cloves in a 12-inch skillet. Then, add 2 cups marinara sauce and 1 ½ cups water. Break 8-10 dry lasagna noodles into 2-3 inch pieces and layer them in the skillet. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Cheese Selection for Maximum Flavor

For a creamy texture, use 1 cup cottage cheese and 4 oz shredded mozzarella. The cottage cheese adds protein and keeps the dish light. Sprinkle mozzarella on top for that classic lasagna taste. Add some grated Parmesan before serving for extra flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

After cooking, let the skillet lasagna rest for a few minutes. This lets the cheese set, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil for color and flavor. Each serving has 350 calories, 23g protein, and 15g fat, making it a balanced meal.

This skillet lasagna is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying ground beef recipe. Enjoy the rich flavors of lasagna without the long baking time!

Cheeseburger Rice Skillet: A Family Favorite

Looking for quick ground beef dinner ideas? The Cheeseburger Rice Skillet is a hit with everyone. It mixes the taste of a classic cheeseburger with the comfort of rice. This recipe serves 6 and is ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy nights.

This recipe gets a 4.9 out of 5 from 54 reviewers. It uses common items like lean ground beef, rice, cheese, and bacon. For extra taste, try adding tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this hearty dish has:

• 690 calories
• 49g protein
• 26g carbohydrates
• 43g fat

Cooking Tips

You can swap the beef for ground pork or chicken. But avoid using ground turkey or chicken breast as they might make the dish dry. For the best taste, use lean ground beef (93%). This recipe is flexible and can be made gluten-free and dairy-free.

Storage and Leftovers

Leftovers should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with 1-2 tablespoons of milk over medium heat. You can also turn leftovers into stuffed peppers or wraps.

This Cheeseburger Rice Skillet is a versatile ground beef recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its quick preparation time and delicious flavors make it an ideal choice for those seeking easy ground beef dinner ideas.

Mexican Cornbread Casserole with Ground Beef

Craving a delicious ground beef casserole? This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is perfect for you. It combines Tex-Mex flavors with hearty cornbread for a satisfying meal. It’s great for busy weeknights and will quickly become a family favorite.

This casserole has seasoned ground beef, corn, black beans, and zesty salsa. It’s topped with golden cornbread and melted cheese. It’s a comfort food delight that everyone will love.

This Mexican Cornbread Casserole serves 8 and bakes for 45-50 minutes at 350°F. It has 502 calories per serving, making it a filling meal for family dinners or potlucks. It’s easy to make and enjoyable for cooks of all levels.

You can customize this dish with toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or different peppers. Adjust the spice level to your liking. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, perfect for meal prep.

“This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is comfort food at its finest! The blend of flavors and textures is simply irresistible.”

With an average rating of 4.69 out of 5 from 87 votes, this casserole is a hit. Try it out and see why it’s a favorite among home cooks!

Mini Cheeseburger Bites on Biscuits

Want a fun twist on classic ground beef recipes? Try these mini cheeseburger bites on biscuits! They’re perfect for busy families and picky eaters. They mix the taste of a juicy cheeseburger with easy-to-eat sizes.

Preparing the Perfect Biscuit Base

Begin with refrigerated biscuits. Flatten each one to about 1/4 inch thick. Put them in a mini muffin pan for perfect cheeseburger cups. This makes 40 tasty bites, great for parties or family meals.

Creative Topping Ideas

The filling is the highlight of this recipe. Mix 1 lb of lean ground beef with tomato juice, egg, and cooked bacon. Add shredded cheddar cheese for that classic cheeseburger flavor. For more taste, try these toppings:

• Pickle slices
• Diced onions
• Sliced jalapeños
• Crumbled blue cheese

Kid-Friendly Serving Suggestions

Kids love these mini cheeseburger bites! Serve them with dips like ketchup, mustard, or ranch. For a special touch, make homemade pub sauce with mayonnaise, brown sugar, soy sauce, and spices. It’s a great match for these bites.

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta

Craving a hearty ground beef pasta dish? This delicious baked ziti recipe is perfect for you. It’s quick to make, ready in under 90 minutes. It’s great for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

This meal serves eight and combines ziti pasta, seasoned ground beef, and creamy ricotta cheese. You’ll need 2 pounds of ground beef, 24 ounces of ricotta cheese, and 12 ounces of uncooked ziti pasta. Don’t forget the spices like nutmeg and Italian seasoning.

Layer your ingredients in a 9×13 baking dish, starting with sauce to prevent sticking. This ground beef dinner idea is versatile and can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs.

Bake your ziti at 350°F for 30-35 minutes until it’s golden and bubbly. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. It has 34g of protein and 40% of your daily calcium needs per serving.

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days or frozen for future meals. Serve it with a Mediterranean salad or homemade balsamic vinaigrette for a complete dinner.