Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than ground beef crock pot recipes! Ground beef is a staple ingredient in many households, and when combined with a slow cooker, it can be transformed into a variety of flavorful and nutritious meals. In this article, we’ll share 18 mouth-watering and healthy ground beef crock pot recipes that are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
From hearty stews to savory casseroles, these recipes showcase the versatility of ground beef and the ease of using a slow cooker. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like beef and vegetable stew or something more adventurous like ground beef and sweet potato hash, we’ve got you covered.
Slow Cooker Ground Beef and Vegetable Stew
Perfect for a busy day, this slow cooker stew is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare. With ground beef, tender vegetables, and rich broth, it’s a satisfying option for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and red bell pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in the browned ground beef, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and thyme.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Crock Pot Beef and Quinoa Casserole
This hearty casserole is a nutritious twist on traditional comfort food, packed with tender beef, nutty quinoa, and a medley of colorful vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe is easy to make and customize to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini)
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a pan with olive oil; drain excess fat.
2. Add quinoa, mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano to the crock pot.
3. Place browned ground beef on top of the quinoa mixture.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Low-Carb Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet
A delicious and nutritious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the flavors of ground beef, cauliflower rice, and savory spices for a satisfying and low-carb option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cauliflower rice and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crock Pot Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a busy day. This recipe combines tender ground beef with sweet potatoes, onions, and spices, resulting in a flavorful and nutritious hash.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the cooked ground beef, sweet potatoes, onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, and paprika to the Crock Pot.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Slow Cooker Beef and Lentil Chili
This hearty and nutritious chili recipe is perfect for a cozy night in. With the rich flavors of beef, lentils, and vegetables, you’ll be warm and satisfied without sacrificing nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker with the lentils, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in the beef broth and stir well to combine.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Ground Beef and Zucchini Noodle Bolognese
This classic Italian-inspired dish gets a healthy twist with the addition of zucchini noodles, reducing carbs and calories while keeping the flavor intact. This hearty meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the zucchini noodles, crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly day or a weeknight dinner. With tender beef, nutty barley, and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the beef, barley, beef broth, onion, garlic, and thyme to a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
Healthy Crock Pot Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
Healthy Crock Pot Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff: A flavorful and nutritious twist on a classic comfort food dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean beef strips (such as sirloin or round)
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake)
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the crock pot, combine beef strips, mushrooms, onion, garlic, olive oil, beef broth, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in chopped parsley (if using).
4. Serve hot over cooked noodles, such as egg noodles or brown rice.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Ground Beef and Spinach Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform ordinary bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal by filling them with a savory mix of ground beef, spinach, and spices. This easy-to-make recipe is 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 fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in spinach, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spinach has wilted.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and top with cooked white rice.
7. Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef and Black Bean Enchiladas
Savor the rich flavors of Mexico with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering. Tender beef and black beans are wrapped in tortillas, smothered in a savory enchilada sauce, and cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet enchilada sauce mix
– 8-10 tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
3. In the slow cooker, combine cooked beef mixture, black beans, enchilada sauce mix, and 1 cup of water. Stir to combine.
4. Wrap tortillas around small portions of the meat mixture and place in the slow cooker. Top with shredded cheese.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, topped with your favorite optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Ground Beef and Kale Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of protein-packed ground beef and nutrient-dense kale, cooked to perfection in a flavorful broth. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed and discarded
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chopped kale, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the kale is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crock Pot Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Elevate your weeknight meal with this easy and flavorful Crock Pot beef and cabbage stir-fry, perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of 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. Place beef strips in the Crock Pot.
2. Add sliced cabbage, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil on top of the beef.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve over cooked white rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Ground Beef and Butternut Squash Curry
This hearty and flavorful curry combines the richness of ground beef with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, all wrapped up in a warm and aromatic spice blend. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash with 1 tablespoon oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30 minutes.
3. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add onions, garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Cook until onions are translucent.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add roasted squash and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef and Chickpea Tagine
Experience the rich flavors of Morocco with this hearty slow cooker tagine recipe, perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day. This comforting dish combines tender beef, creamy chickpeas, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Add the beef, chickpeas, salt, and black pepper on top of the onion mixture.
3. Pour in the beef broth and honey.
4. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot over couscous or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Healthy Ground Beef and Eggplant Lasagna
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional lasagna, featuring ground beef and eggplant for a satisfying and balanced meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pan, sauté eggplant slices with salt and pepper until tender.
5. Assemble lasagna by layering cooked lasagna noodles, ground beef mixture, eggplant slices, marinara sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crock Pot Beef and Brown Rice Pilaf
This comforting pilaf recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The slow cooker does all the work, tenderizing the beef and cooking the rice to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In the crock pot, combine beef, brown rice, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the olive oil.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Ground Beef and Carrot Ginger Soup
This hearty soup combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the sweet and spicy warmth of carrots and ginger, perfect for a cozy meal or a comforting pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 inches fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped carrots, grated ginger, chicken broth, and milk to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the flavors of a traditional stir-fry with the convenience of a slow cooker. With minimal prep work, you can come home to a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add beef, broccoli, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce and olive oil. Pour over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
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