Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many tasty meals. It’s affordable and easy to cook, making it a go-to choice for quick dinners.

From classic comfort foods to new twists on old favorites, there are lots of ways to use ground beef in your cooking.

You can make delicious meals with ground beef that your whole family will enjoy. This list of recipes has something for everyone.

Whether you want a hearty casserole, a simple skillet dish, or a crowd-pleasing pasta, you’ll find ideas to try. These recipes are great for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

1. Classic Beef Tacos

Ground beef tacos are a family favorite. They’re quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights.

Start by browning ground beef in a pan. Add taco seasoning for flavor.

Fill crispy taco shells with the seasoned beef. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheese. You can also add sour cream or salsa.

For extra crunch, bake the filled taco shells for a few minutes. This melts the cheese and warms everything up. Serve with your choice of sides like rice or beans.

These tacos are customizable. Let everyone add their own toppings for a fun, interactive meal. They’re sure to be a hit at your next taco night.

2. Cheesy Beef Enchiladas

Cheesy beef enchiladas are a tasty and filling meal you can make easily at home. Start by cooking ground beef with onions and garlic in a skillet. Add taco seasoning for extra flavor.

Wrap the seasoned beef in soft tortillas and place them in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the top. Sprinkle lots of cheese on the enchiladas.

Bake the dish in a 375°F oven until the cheese melts and gets bubbly. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.

You can add toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, or sour cream when serving. These cheesy beef enchiladas are sure to become a family favorite.

3. Ground Beef Stroganoff

Ground beef stroganoff is a tasty twist on the classic dish. To make it, brown ground beef in a pan with onions and garlic. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until soft.

Stir in flour to create a roux, then slowly add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Let the mixture simmer to thicken.

Cook egg noodles separately until tender. Combine the beef mixture with the noodles and stir in sour cream for a creamy finish.

This comforting meal comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the seasonings to your taste.

4. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

You can make a tasty beef and broccoli stir-fry using ground beef instead of sliced beef. This swap makes the dish quicker and more affordable.

The key ingredients are lean ground beef, fresh broccoli florets, and a savory sauce. Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger for the sauce.

Cook the beef in a hot pan until browned. Add the broccoli and stir-fry until tender-crisp. Pour in the sauce and let it simmer briefly.

You can have this meal ready in about 30 minutes. Serve it over rice or your favorite grain for a fast, filling dinner.

5. Beef Chili with Beans

Beef chili with beans is a hearty dish perfect for cold days. Start by browning ground beef with onions and garlic in a large pot. Add kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce.

Stir in chili powder, cumin, and other spices to taste. Let the chili simmer for about an hour to blend the flavors. You can adjust the thickness by adding water or cooking longer.

Serve your chili hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped onions. It’s great with cornbread or over rice.

This recipe is easy to customize based on your preferences.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a tasty and colorful way to use ground beef. You start by cutting the tops off bell peppers and removing the seeds.

Next, brown the ground beef in a pan. Mix it with cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and spices like basil and oregano.

Fill the peppers with this mixture. Place them in a baking dish with some tomato sauce. Bake until the peppers are soft, about 15-20 minutes.

For extra flavor, top the peppers with cheese and return to the oven briefly. The melted cheese adds a delicious finishing touch.

This dish is easy to customize. Try different colors of bell peppers or add corn and mushrooms to the filling for variety.

7. Beef Lasagna

Beef lasagna is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners. You can make it with layers of pasta, ground beef, and cheese.

Start by cooking the beef with onions and garlic. Add tomato sauce and seasonings for flavor.

Layer the meat sauce with lasagna noodles and a mixture of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of your baking dish. Finish with a layer of cheese on top.

Bake the lasagna until it’s hot and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later.

8. Italian Meatballs

Italian meatballs are a tasty way to use ground beef. Mix beef with breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, cheese, and spices. Shape the mixture into small balls.

You can cook meatballs in different ways. Bake them in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. Or fry them in a pan with olive oil until brown.

Serve your meatballs with tomato sauce and pasta. They’re great on their own too. For extra flavor, add garlic, onion, or herbs to the meat mix.

Italian meatballs are perfect for family dinners or parties. They’re easy to make and always popular.

9. Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is a comforting dish that combines ground beef and vegetables topped with mashed potatoes. It’s a great way to use leftover mashed potatoes.

To make it, brown ground beef with onions and garlic. Add mixed vegetables like peas and carrots. Season with salt and pepper.

Spread the beef mixture in a baking dish. Top with a layer of mashed potatoes. You can add shredded cheese on top for extra flavor.

Bake the shepherd’s pie in a 350°F oven for about 25-30 minutes. The top should turn golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

10. Beef Sloppy Joes

Beef sloppy joes are a tasty, messy sandwich that’s quick to make. You’ll need ground beef, onions, and bell peppers as the base.

Brown the beef in a skillet, then add the chopped veggies. Cook until the veggies soften.

Mix in ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar for a sweet and tangy sauce. Let it simmer until it thickens.

Spoon the meat mixture onto hamburger buns. You can also serve it over bread or baked potatoes for variety.

This classic comfort food is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the flavors and fun of eating sloppy joes.

11. Hamburger Casserole

Hamburger casserole is a comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying meal.

Start by browning ground beef with onions in a skillet. Add your favorite seasonings like garlic powder and salt. Mix in cooked pasta, such as elbow macaroni or egg noodles.

Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Top with cheese and bake until bubbly. Some recipes include vegetables like corn or green beans for extra nutrition.

You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

It’s a great option for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for lunch.

12. Taco Salad

Taco salad is a tasty and easy meal you can whip up with ground beef. Brown the beef in a skillet and add taco seasoning for flavor.

Combine the cooked beef with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese in a large bowl. Add your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, or salsa.

For extra crunch, crush some tortilla chips and sprinkle them on top. You can also use the chips to scoop up the salad.

This dish is perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. It’s customizable, so you can adjust ingredients based on what you like or have on hand.

13. Beef and Bean Burritos

Beef and bean burritos are a tasty and filling meal you can make at home. Start by browning ground beef with onions and taco seasoning.

Add refried beans to the meat mixture for extra protein and flavor. Warm up some flour tortillas in the microwave.

Spoon the beef and bean filling onto each tortilla. Top with shredded cheese and roll up tightly.

You can eat these burritos right away or freeze them for later. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for a quick meal.

Try adding toppings like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for extra flavor. These burritos are great for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.

14. Beef Stuffed Zucchini

Beef stuffed zucchini is a tasty and healthy meal option. To make it, cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.

Brown ground beef in a skillet with onions and garlic. Mix in some of the chopped zucchini flesh, marinara sauce, and seasonings.

Spoon the beef mixture into the zucchini boats. Top with shredded cheese if you like.

Bake the stuffed zucchini in the oven until tender. For extra cheese goodness, broil for a few minutes at the end to get a golden, bubbly top.

This dish is great for using up extra zucchini from your garden. You can customize the filling with different spices or veggies to suit your taste.

15. Baked Ziti with Beef

Baked ziti with beef is a comforting Italian-American dish you’ll love. Cook ziti pasta until al dente, then set it aside.

Brown ground beef in a skillet and mix in your favorite pasta sauce.

In a baking dish, layer the cooked pasta, meat sauce, and a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan. Don’t forget to add dollops of creamy ricotta or sour cream.

Bake the ziti in a preheated oven until the cheese melts and turns golden. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

You can easily customize it with your preferred seasonings or extra veggies.

16. Beef Quesadillas

Beef quesadillas are a tasty and easy meal you can whip up quickly. Start by cooking lean ground beef with onions and spices like chili powder and garlic powder.

Once the beef is ready, spread it on half of a flour tortilla. Add shredded cheese on top of the meat. Fold the tortilla in half and cook it in a pan until golden and crispy.

For extra flavor, try adding diced tomatoes or bell peppers to your quesadillas. You can also serve them with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side.

Beef quesadillas are perfect for lunch or dinner. They’re filling and can be customized to your liking.

17. Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

You can make a tasty meal with ground beef and rice in one skillet. Start by browning the beef in a large pan over medium heat. Drain any excess grease.

Add chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the meat. Stir in some salt and pepper for flavor. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Pour in beef broth and uncooked rice. Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for extra zest. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.

Your rice should be tender when done. For a cheesy version, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before serving.

18. Beef Nachos

Beef nachos are a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for game day or casual gatherings. To make them, start by cooking ground beef with onions in a skillet until browned. Drain excess fat and add taco seasoning.

Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Top with the seasoned beef, refried beans, and shredded cheese. For extra flavor, add jalapeños or other toppings you enjoy.

Bake the nachos in a preheated 400°F oven until the cheese melts. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes. Serve hot with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole on the side.

You can customize your nachos by adding different toppings or using various types of cheese. Experiment to find your favorite combination.

19. Beef Shepherd’s Casserole

Beef Shepherd’s Casserole is a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. You’ll love this hearty meal made with ground beef and vegetables.

Start by browning the beef in a skillet. Add onions, carrots, and peas for a nutritious mix. Stir in some broth and seasonings to create a savory base.

Top the beef mixture with creamy mashed potatoes. Sprinkle cheese on top for extra flavor. Bake until golden brown and bubbly.

This casserole is easy to make and feeds a crowd. You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.

It’s a great way to use leftover mashed potatoes too.

20. Mushroom and Beef Risotto

Mushroom and beef risotto is a hearty dish that combines savory flavors. You’ll need ground beef, mushrooms, arborio rice, and beef broth as the main ingredients.

Start by cooking the beef in a large pan. Add chopped onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Stir in the rice and cook for a minute.

Slowly add hot beef broth, stirring constantly. This process takes about 20-25 minutes. The rice will become creamy as it absorbs the liquid.

Finish the dish with grated cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This risotto is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

21. Korean Beef Bowls

Korean beef bowls are a quick and tasty meal you can make in about 20 minutes. They use ground beef flavored with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.

You can add sesame oil and red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Cook the beef with chopped onions and green onions.

Serve the beef over rice and top with cucumber salad for crunch. This dish is both sweet and spicy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fast but flavorful.

22. Beef Taco Salad

Beef taco salad is a tasty and filling meal you can whip up quickly. Start by browning ground beef in a skillet. Add taco seasoning and water, then simmer until thickened.

Let the meat cool a bit while you prep the other ingredients.

Chop lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. Shred some cheddar cheese.

In a large bowl, combine the seasoned beef, veggies, and cheese. Add some crushed tortilla chips for crunch. Top with sour cream and salsa if you like.

This versatile dish works great for lunch or dinner. You can easily customize it with your favorite taco toppings.

23. Swedish Meatballs

Swedish meatballs are a tasty twist on regular meatballs. You mix ground beef with spices like allspice and nutmeg for a unique flavor.

To make them, combine the beef with breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices. Shape the mixture into small balls. Cook them in a pan until browned on all sides.

The creamy sauce is what makes these meatballs special. You make it by whisking flour, butter, beef broth, and cream in the same pan. Add the meatballs back in to simmer.

Serve your Swedish meatballs over egg noodles or mashed potatoes. They’re perfect for a cozy dinner or as a party appetizer.

24. Beef and Spinach Cannelloni

Beef and spinach cannelloni is a tasty Italian dish that combines ground beef, spinach, and cheese in pasta tubes. To make it, cook ground beef with onions and garlic until browned. Mix in chopped spinach and seasonings like Italian herbs and Worcestershire sauce.

Fill large pasta tubes with the beef and spinach mixture. Place them in a baking dish and cover with tomato sauce and cheese. Bake until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests. You can prepare it ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve. Add a side salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired feast.

25. Asian Beef Lettuce Wraps

These wraps offer a tasty, low-carb meal option. You’ll brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Break it up as it cooks.

Add garlic, ginger, and sauces like hoisin and soy for flavor. Mix in water chestnuts and green onions for crunch.

Spoon the beef mixture into lettuce leaves. Top with cucumber, carrot, and mint for freshness. The crisp lettuce contrasts nicely with the warm, savory filling.

This dish comes together quickly, making it great for busy weeknights. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Nutritional Benefits of Ground Beef

Ground beef offers many important nutrients your body needs. It packs protein for building muscle and minerals to keep you healthy.

Protein Content

Ground beef is high in protein. A 3-ounce serving gives you about 22 grams of protein. This helps you build and fix muscles. It also keeps you feeling full longer.

Protein from beef is complete. This means it has all the amino acids your body can’t make on its own. Your body uses these to make new proteins it needs.

Eating ground beef can help you meet your daily protein needs. The amount you need depends on your weight and activity level.

Vitamins and Minerals

Ground beef is rich in many vitamins and minerals. It’s a great source of iron, which your body needs to make red blood cells. These cells carry oxygen all over your body.

You’ll also get zinc from ground beef. Zinc helps your immune system work well. It also helps wounds heal faster.

Ground beef has B vitamins too. These help your body turn food into energy. Vitamin B12 is only found in animal foods, making beef a key source for many people.

Here are some key nutrients in a 3-ounce serving of cooked ground beef (85% lean):

• Iron: 2.2 mg
• Zinc: 5.4 mg
• Vitamin B12: 2.4 mcg
• Niacin: 5.2 mg

Selecting the Right Ground Beef

Picking the best ground beef can make or break your recipes. The right choice depends on what you’re cooking and your taste preferences.

Lean vs. Fatty Cuts

Ground beef comes in different fat-to-meat ratios. The numbers tell you how much lean meat is in the mix. For example, 80/20 means 80% lean meat and 20% fat.

For juicy burgers, go for 80/20 or 70/30. These have enough fat to keep the meat moist and tasty when grilled.

If you’re making a dish where you’ll drain the fat, like tacos or pasta sauce, 85/15 or 90/10 work well. They’re leaner but still have flavor.

For health-conscious meals, 93/7 or 96/4 are good choices. These are best for recipes that add moisture, like meatloaf or stuffed peppers.

Organic and Grass-Fed Options

Organic ground beef comes from cows raised without antibiotics or hormones. It may have a richer flavor and different nutrient profile.

Grass-fed beef is from cattle that eat mainly grass. It often has less fat and more omega-3 fatty acids than grain-fed beef.

These options can cost more but may appeal if you prefer natural farming methods. They can add a unique taste to your dishes.

When buying, look for bright red meat. Avoid packages with too much liquid or brown spots. Keep raw beef away from other foods to prevent cross-contamination.