When it comes to quick and easy dinner ideas, ground beef is often a go-to ingredient. It’s affordable, versatile, and can be cooked in no time – making it perfect for busy nights when you’re short on time. Whether you’re looking for a flavorful stir-fry, a comforting casserole, or something as simple as tacos, there are countless ways to use ground beef in a recipe. In this article, we’ll share 20 quick and delicious ground beef recipes that can be prepared in just 30 minutes or less. From classic comfort foods to international twists, these dishes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Classic Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa
Experience the flavors of Mexico with this classic recipe for tender beef tacos served with a fresh and zesty salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Fresh Salsa ingredients (see below)
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add chopped onion and taco seasoning to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent and the flavors are combined.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning beef mixture onto tortillas, followed by your desired toppings.
Fresh Salsa:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl; stir well. Serve with tacos.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Ground Beef and Veggie Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal without the hassle of multiple dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and snap peas)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp.
5. Season with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Beef Quesadillas with Avocado
Elevate your quesadilla game with this simple recipe that combines tender beef, melted cheese, and creamy avocado. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add shredded cheese to the beef and stir until melted.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with the beef-cheese mixture.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the filling is heated through.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
9. Serve hot with diced avocado, cilantro (if using), and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
This classic Russian dish is a hearty and flavorful combination of tender beef, sautéed mushrooms, and creamy sauce, served over egg noodles. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add beef; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Return beef to skillet; stir to combine.
7. Serve over cooked egg noodles. Garnish with parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Beef and Rice Skillet
This one-pot wonder combines savory beef, flavorful rice, and a kick of heat for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and water to the skillet; stir well.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors meld together and liquid is absorbed.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Beef and Bean Chili
A hearty and comforting chili that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe is simple to make and packed with flavor, using ground beef, canned beans, and tomatoes as the base.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, beans, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory taste of ground beef with the sweetness of bell peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
7. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 45 minutes.
8. Remove foil, sprinkle with shredded cheese (if using), and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Noodle Bowl
A quick and satisfying meal that combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and chewy noodles in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add broccoli florets and stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Return beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the beef and broccoli mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Loaded Beef Nachos with Cheese Sauce
Elevate your snack game with this hearty recipe that combines tender beef, gooey cheese sauce, and crunchy nacho toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and taco seasoning; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Spoon refried beans, cooked beef mixture, and shredded cheese over the chips.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with cilantro; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Beef and Potato Hash with Fried Eggs
Savor a hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch with this classic Beef and Potato Hash recipe, topped with crispy fried eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck, diced into small pieces
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add potato cubes to the skillet and continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Crack eggs into a separate pan coated with butter or oil over medium heat. Cook until whites are set and yolks are cooked to desired doneness.
6. Serve beef and potato mixture topped with fried eggs and garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for any meal. With just a few ingredients and simple cooking steps, you can have a delicious and nutritious stir-fry on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook beef strips in a hot skillet with vegetable oil until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add shredded cabbage to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return beef strips to the skillet and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook for an additional minute until everything is well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells
This hearty recipe combines the flavors of beef, spinach, and cheese with the comforting warmth of stuffed pasta shells. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef mixture and place in a baking dish.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Korean-Style Beef Lettuce Wraps
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with these tender beef lettuce wraps, marinated in a sweet and savory mixture.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 head of lettuce (bibb or buttercrunch), leaves separated
• 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped (optional)
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and water.
2. Add the beef strips to the marinade, coating evenly. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing a few slices of beef onto a lettuce leaf, adding kimchi if using, and garnishing with sesame seeds and green onions.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Cornbread Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender beef, savory vegetables, and moist cornbread for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cornbread mix
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic, and corn kernels to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together cornbread mix, egg, and water.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with vegetable oil.
6. Layer cooked beef mixture, shredded cheese, and cornbread batter in the prepared dish.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Beef and Zucchini Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines tender beef, crisp zucchini, and savory garlic butter for a flavorful one-pan meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
5. Return the beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the zucchini and garlic butter.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Black Bean Burritos
This recipe combines tender beef, flavorful black beans, and creamy cheese wrapped in a warm flour tortilla, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add black beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by spooning beef and bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese.
7. Fold burrito in half and serve with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Tomato Pasta Bake
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the flavors of tender beef, juicy tomatoes, and al dente pasta, all wrapped up in a golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 500g minced beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 250g pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 25g olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large baking dish, combine cooked pasta, beef mixture, and olive oil. Mix well.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty, comforting twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, this recipe combines tender beef with sweet potatoes and rich gravy for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 cup frozen peas
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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 onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and peas to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, boil diced sweet potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer beef mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed sweet potatoes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Cheese Stuffed Pita Pockets
A flavorful twist on classic sandwiches, these Beef and Cheese Stuffed Pita Pockets are perfect for a quick snack or lunch. Moist beef and melted cheese fill crispy pita bread, creating a satisfying bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4-6 pita breads
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic, and olive oil; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stuff each pita bread with the beef mixture and top with shredded cheese.
5. Place stuffed pitas on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Beef and Pea Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines savory beef, sweet peas, and fluffy rice. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed frozen peas
– 1/2 cup diced cooked beef (e.g., flank steak or roast beef)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked beef, peas, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix well to combine with the rice, breaking up any clumps.
6. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes