Are you looking for delicious ground beef recipe ideas to spice up your mealtime routine? Look no further! With its rich flavor and versatility, ground beef is a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered with our list of 20 mouthwatering ground beef recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
From tacos to casseroles, meatballs to stir-fries, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the globe, highlighting some of the most popular and flavorful ways to cook with ground beef. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these easy-to-make recipes are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll share our top 20 ground beef recipe ideas that are perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to special occasions like holidays and family gatherings.
Classic Beef Tacos
Bring the flavors of Mexico into your kitchen with this classic beef taco recipe. Tender, juicy beef is seasoned with a blend of spices and simmered to perfection, then served in crispy tacos shells with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
– 8-10 taco shells
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat mixture and stir to combine.
4. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture into the shells, then topping with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and any other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Beef Burgers
Homemade Beef Burgers Recipe
Savor the classic flavor of a homemade beef burger with this simple recipe. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create juicy and flavorful burgers that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 70/30 lean to fat ratio)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Buns and toppings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, onion, and garlic. Mix with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired burger size. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a patty.
4. Brush the patties with egg and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Serve immediately on buns with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Spaghetti Bolognese
This timeless Italian dish is a staple for a reason – rich flavors and tender meat make it a crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 500g minced beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 250g spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large saucepan, cook the beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot to the saucepan and cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer the sauce for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld together.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with the bolognese sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Transform ordinary bell peppers into a flavorful and satisfying meal by filling them with a savory mixture of ground beef, cheese, and spices.
Ingredients:
• 4 large bell peppers, any color
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, followed by shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and sprinkle paprika on top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Savory Beef Meatloaf
A classic comfort food dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. This savory beef meatloaf is a hearty and flavorful twist on the traditional recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; mix until evenly distributed.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quick and Easy Beef Chili
Quick and Easy Beef Chili
A hearty and comforting meal that’s ready in under an hour! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are soft and the meat is fully cooked.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
A classic Russian dish that’s quick and flavorful, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Sautéed beef strips and mushrooms are simmered in a savory sauce with egg noodles, served hot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add beef broth, tomato paste, mustard, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef strips to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Stir in sour cream; season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve over cooked egg noodles. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Beef Enchiladas
A flavorful twist on traditional enchiladas, this recipe combines tender beef with melted cheese and wrapped tortillas for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon until browned.
3. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
4. Stir in enchilada sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush both sides of tortillas with vegetable oil and wrap with filling.
6. Place wrapped tortillas seam-side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack) and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Potato Hash
A hearty and comforting dish that combines tender beef with crispy potatoes, onions, and bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 1 large bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil, onion, and bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cooked beef back into the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Arrange diced potatoes on top of the beef mixture in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Korean Beef Bulgogi Bowls
Korean Beef Bulgogi Bowls: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 8 oz rice noodles or udon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.
4. Grill or pan-fry the beef until cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per side.
5. Divide the noodles among bowls. Top with grilled beef, green onions, and sesame seeds.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours (marinating time)
Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! This Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a perfect weeknight dinner solution.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of 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 skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry until it starts to soften, about 2 minutes.
5. Return the cooked beef strips to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Shepherd’s Pie
A classic comfort food dish, this beef shepherd’s pie is a satisfying and filling meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the meat mixture.
7. Dot the potatoes with butter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Bean Burritos
This recipe combines tender beef, flavorful beans, and melted cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can (15.5 oz) red kidney 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. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and cook according to package instructions.
4. Add red kidney beans to the skillet; 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. Add optional toppings as desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Style Beef Moussaka
A classic Greek dish that combines tender beef, rich eggplant, and a creamy bechamel sauce, all layered together for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (see below)
– 8 oz grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the beef in a skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Layer the eggplant slices, cooked beef, and tomato puree in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top with bechamel sauce and Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Bechamel Sauce:
– Melt 2 tbsp butter in a saucepan over medium heat
– Whisk in 2 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute
– Gradually add 1 cup milk, whisking constantly
– Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Spinach Lasagna
This hearty lasagna recipe combines tender beef, fresh spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese, wrapped in layers of pasta and melted mozzarella. A perfect comfort food dish for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned; drain excess fat.
3. In a separate bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, egg, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble lasagna by spreading marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 noodles on top, followed by half the beef mixture, half the spinach-ricotta mixture, and half the mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers.
5. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines savory beef and rice with fresh tomato goodness.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, hollowed out
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, and oregano to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Stuff each tomato with the beef and rice mixture, mounding slightly in the center.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Cornbread Casserole
A comforting casserole perfect for a chilly evening or a weeknight dinner, this recipe combines the flavors of slow-cooked beef with sweet cornbread crumbles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup whole kernel corn
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 1/2 cups cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the frozen corn kernels and whole kernel corn. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour over the beef mixture and stir to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with cornbread mix and melted butter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe combines tender beef strips with crisp broccoli florets 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)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add broccoli to skillet and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return beef strips to skillet and stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over cooked white rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Lentil Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the richness of beef with the nutty flavor of lentils, all wrapped up in a warm and inviting broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onions, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the lentils, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
A flavorful twist on the classic Mexican dish, this recipe combines tender beef with melted cheese inside a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Brush one side of a tortilla with vegetable oil.
5. Place the beef mixture onto half of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beef.
7. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
8. Cook the quesadillas in a large skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 mouthwatering ground beef recipes! From classic tacos and burgers to hearty stews and casseroles, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Try adding a twist with dishes like Korean Beef Bulgogi Bowls or Greek-Style Beef Moussaka. Satisfy your comfort food cravings with Beef Shepherd’s Pie or Beef and Cheese Quesadillas. And don’t forget about the international flavors – Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff, anyone? Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
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