Title: 20 Delicious Easiest Ground Beef Recipes Perfect for Weeknights
When it comes to quick and easy dinner ideas, few ingredients are as versatile and reliable as ground beef. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a solution to your family’s weeknight woes or just someone who appreciates the convenience of a meal that can be on the table in no time, these 20 delicious ground beef recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen. From classic tacos to hearty casseroles and everything in between, we’ve rounded up our favorite ways to use ground beef to create tasty meals that won’t break the bank or test your culinary skills.
In this article, you’ll find a wide range of mouthwatering dishes that are perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican-inspired flavors, classic comfort food, or international twists, there’s something here for everyone. So go ahead and get ready to beef up your meal routine with these 20 easiest ground beef recipes!
Classic Beef Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this simple recipe for classic beef tacos. Ground beef, taco seasoning, and a hint of cumin come together to create a delicious filling that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Once the beef is fully cooked, add the taco seasoning and cumin. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla and topping with cheese and cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Beef Pasta
Get ready for a hearty and satisfying meal with this One-Pot Beef Pasta recipe. Tender beef, al dente pasta, and rich tomato sauce come together in one easy-to-make pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, cook the beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and dried oregano. Stir to combine.
5. Return the cooked pasta to the pot and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
In just a few minutes, you can whip up a tasty and nutritious stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This quick recipe combines tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and broccoli to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour into the pan and stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Beef Quesadillas
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this simple and flavorful recipe. These beef quesadillas are a perfect combination of tender beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef in the skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and taco seasoning to the beef; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Brush one side of each tortilla with a little vegetable oil.
5. Place a portion of the beef mixture onto half of each tortilla, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the beef.
7. Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the filling.
8. Cook the quesadillas for 2-3 minutes or until they’re crispy and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Beef Chili
Get cozy with this comforting beef chili recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a chilly weekend gathering. This classic dish is easy to make and packed with flavor, featuring tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and a rich tomato-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, and paprika; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and beef broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Speedy Beef Sliders
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these speedy beef sliders! These bite-sized burgers are packed with flavor and can be prepared in just a few minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 small hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble the sliders by placing a cooked patty on each bun, followed by your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Ground Beef Stroganoff
This hearty recipe combines tender ground beef with a rich and creamy sauce, served over egg noodles for a comforting meal that’s sure to please. With its simple preparation and flavorful result, it’s a great option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
– Sour cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in mushrooms, beef broth, tomato paste, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken for 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve ground beef mixture over cooked egg noodles. Top with sour cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Rice Skillet
This classic recipe is a staple of comfort food, combining tender beef, flavorful rice, and sautéed vegetables in one easy-to-make skillet. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cooked rice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Return the beef strips to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Beef Enchiladas
Elevate your dinner game with this comforting, cheesy, and flavorful recipe that combines tender beef with soft tortillas and a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10.5 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro, or crushed red peppers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning beef mixture onto tortilla, rolling, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over rolled tortillas and top with cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Bean Burritos
Get ready to wrap up a flavorful meal with this classic burrito recipe! This hearty dish combines tender beef, creamy beans, and crunchy veggies all wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the black beans, corn kernels, and red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the burritos by spooning the beef and bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by any desired toppings (shredded cheese, salsa).
7. Roll up the burrito and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Easy Meatloaf
This classic comfort food recipe yields a deliciously moist meatloaf with a flavorful ketchup-based glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this easy-to-make dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix ketchup and brown sugar. Spoon the glaze over the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch, this Beef and Potato Hash combines tender beef, crispy potatoes, and savory aromatics.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they start to brown.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Beef Nachos
A deliciously simple snack or meal that combines the flavors of tender beef, crispy tortilla chips, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are soft.
4. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture and stir to combine.
5. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. Spoon the beef mixture over the tortilla chips.
7. Top with shredded cheese and return to the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and add any desired toppings. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A classic combination of savory beef and crisp cabbage, this stir-fry is a simple and flavorful meal that’s ready in no time. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced cabbage and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the cooked beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Beef Empanadas
This recipe yields deliciously flaky and savory empanadas filled with tender beef and spices. Perfect as a snack or meal, these empanadas are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground beef
+ 1 onion, finely chopped
+ 1 clove garlic, minced
+ 1 egg
+ 1 tablespoon paprika
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and shortening. Gradually add warm water until dough forms.
3. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles or squares, depending on desired shape.
4. Place beef filling in center of each circle/square. Fold pastry in half and press edges together with a fork.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with paprika.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Gravy
This hearty beef and mushroom gravy recipe is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or as a topping for your favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef strips to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Easy Beef Shepherd’s Pie
This classic comfort food dish is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and filling beef shepherd’s pie that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Cornbread Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that combines tender beef, creamy cornbread, and savory seasonings for a satisfying dinner or brunch. This casserole is perfect for a chilly evening or a busy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cornbread mix, milk, egg, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked beef mixture with cornbread mixture; stir in corn kernels.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Quick Beef Gyros
Quick Beef Gyros Recipe
A flavorful and convenient twist on traditional gyros, this recipe uses thinly sliced beef cooked with Mediterranean spices and wrapped in a warm pita bread. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced beef (such as top round or rump), cut into strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for 5-10 minutes.
4. Grill the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
6. Assemble gyros by placing a few slices of grilled beef onto each pita bread and topping with tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the flavors of beef, spinach, and ricotta cheese with the classic comfort food, stuffed shells. The result is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg.
6. Stuff cooked pasta shells with the beef mixture.
7. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
8. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious ground beef recipes perfect for weeknights? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering dishes that are easy to make and packed with flavor. From classic tacos to hearty casseroles, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or comforting, there’s a recipe here for everyone. So why wait? Try one of these tasty ground beef recipes tonight!
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