16 Quick Ground Beef Recipes for Meat Lovers

Love Meat? Try These 16 Quick Ground Beef Recipes

There isn't much you can't do with ground beef. It can be used in a variety of ways and is also really tasty.

Since ground beef is so versatile and so often serves as a quick and inexpensive meal, we thought it would be fun to compile some of our favorite recipes that feature it as the main ingredient. We're positive these are the dishes you'll turn to time and time again, whether you're cooking for one or a large group.

1. Cheeseburger Sliders

The juicy, meaty, and savory Cheeseburger sliders have all the iconic burger flavors we love so much!

They are easy to make, reheat well, and make a great appetizer. But these delicious sliders can easily become more of a meal, if you reach for a second helping—which you inevitably will.

2. Spaghetti Bolognese

Tossed with freshly boiled spaghetti, the meaty tomato sauce known as Bolognese sauce is a classic Italian meal. What makes a great Bolognese sauce, you ask? Sure, whole peeled plum tomatoes packed in their own juice is one.

But a pound of ground beef with an 80:20 lean-to-fat ratio is just as important to give flavor, richness, moisture, and texture to the dish.

3. Beef Nachos Supreme

The nachos supreme recipe is a one-sheet-pan wonder that will satisfy your cravings for flavor.

The best part is you can customize the toppings according to who’s eating. Layer the platter with anything you love—stacks of tortilla chips, ground beef, refried beans, cheese, tomatoes, green onion. This fun and easy meal appeals to people of all ages, regardless of whether you whip it on a busy school night or on a fun game day.

4. Classic Beef Stuffed Peppers

The brightly colored bell peppers are definitely worth the extra work in the kitchen when stuffed with savory ground beef, tomato sauce, cooked rice, and shredded cheddar cheese. They’re so delicious that your entire family would request you make them every other day! Using peppers for an edible bowl is also a fantastic way to encourage children to consume more vegetables.

5. Meatball Soup

For most of us, meatballs are a staple for our weekly supper menu. This hearty soup is the perfect way to warm yourself in the fall, with its flavorful combination of seasonal vegetables and bite-size, tender beef meatballs cooked in a rich tomato broth. The soup's outstanding flavor and aroma are due in large part to the interplay between different food elements. Add a serving of your favorite salad, and you've got yourself a complete meal!

6. Beef Picadillo Enchiladas

Beef Picadillo Enchiladas never disappoint!

Picture this: seasoned ground beef mixed with sweet raisins, briny olives, and a medley of spices, all rolled into soft tortillas. Smothered in rich red enchilada sauce and melted cheese, these enchiladas deliver bold, comforting flavors in every bite.

Perfect for dinner, these beauties are quick to make, versatile, and even tastier the next day. Top them with sour cream, cilantro, or a side of creamy avocado, and you’ve got a dish that’s as satisfying as it is unforgettable. Easy, saucy, and downright irresistible!

7. Meat Pies or Beef Hand Pies (Your Choice,:))

This is comfort food at its best: flaky, golden pastry filled with a savory mix of ground beef, tender potatoes, carrots, and a hint of curry spice.

These handheld delights are perfect for any occasion—whether you're enjoying them fresh out of the oven at home or as a satisfying snack on the go. Baked or fried, they deliver a rich, aromatic filling in every bite. Serve them fresh and hot, or reheat for a next-day indulgence that tastes just as good. One bite, and you're hooked for life!

8. Crock-Pot Lasagna

No need for oven-ready noodles or extra prep—you can set this this slow cooker recipe and forget it.

As it simmers, the savory Italian sausage, diced onion, tomato pasta sauce, lasagna noodles, mozzarella, and melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses blend beautifully with the rich sauce and fill your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. It's hearty, delicious, and perfect for feeding the family, with leftovers to spare for next-day lunches!

9. Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls bring together tender cabbage leaves, seasoned ground beef, and rice, all wrapped up and baked in a rich tomato sauce. You can cook the rolls on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, depending on your preference.

Don't worry. They come out perfectly tender either way. Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a few slices of fresh rye bread to complete the meal. A comforting dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and sure to bring everyone back for seconds.

10. Beef Ramen Stir Fry

This easy, flavorful stir fry features juicy ground beef, crisp veggies, and perfectly cooked ramen noodles all tossed in a tangy sauce. It’s the ideal meal for busy days, and you can tweak it based on what’s in your fridge.

You don’t even need to boil the noodles separately—just toss them right into the pan. They will absorb all the delicious sauce and give you a slurpy bite every time. Add some sesame seeds, spring onions, and a dash of hot sauce for extra zing. Grab your chopsticks and dig in!

11. Beef Taco Salad

Craving something fresh, filling, and packed with flavor? Beef Taco Salad is your answer. It’s quick to make, packed with nutrients, and has that perfect Tex-Mex vibe that everyone loves. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s your go-to weeknight dinner!

Ground beef seasoned with taco spices, crispy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado all come together in one satisfying bowl. Want to make it your own? Throw in some black beans, sweet corn, or your favorite veggies for extra crunch and color. Top it off with a generous handful of tortilla chips and zesty jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime for that perfect bite. And don’t forget the cheese—cheddar or cotija will take it to the next level.

12. Feta Stuffed Greek Meatballs

Tender, juicy meatballs made from ground beef are stuffed with creamy Feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor in every bite. Seasoned with fresh herbs like parsley, mint, and oregano, plus a hint of cinnamon and red pepper flakes, these meatballs are anything but ordinary. You can bake or pan-fry them to perfection, then serve with a side of tzatziki sauce for that extra burst of freshness. You can even enjoy them as a topping for rice, pasta, or on a hearty sandwich.

Bonus Tip: Make a big batch and savor them all week long!

13. Ground Beef Stir Fry Teriyaki

This is another flavorful, healthy dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. The homemade teriyaki sauce adds a sweet and savory kick, whereas a finishing drizzle of creamy sriracha sour cream brings just the right amount of heat.

Stir-frying is super versatile anyways, so feel free to swap out vegetables or protein based on what you have on hand. Keep it simple, though. Avoid overloading the pan for that crispy, flavorful finish. This dish is great for meal prepping early in the week and works well for busy weeknights Serve it over rice or enjoy as is for a warm dinner.

14. Baked Pasta Casserole

Made with simple ingredients like ground beef, marinara sauce, pasta, and mozzarella cheese, it’s both comforting and filling.

The recipe is easy to throw together – just cook the pasta, make the sauce, mix, and bake! In under an hour, you’ll have a cheesy, savory casserole that’s sure to please everyone at the table, especially the kids. You can also customize it with extra veggies or use a different type of pasta if you like. This dish makes plenty, so it’s great for leftovers or meal prep. It’s also freezer-friendly, meaning you can enjoy a home-cooked meal even on the busiest days.

15. Ground Beef Stroganoff

This one-pot recipe brings all the warmth and flavor you crave, with minimal effort. In just 30 minutes, lean ground beef, onions, and mushrooms in a rich beef broth and sour cream sauce come together to create a hearty meal everyone will love. Serve it over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or alongside crusty bread for a well-rounded dish. The best part? It’s simple to make and easy to clean up. You can even double or triple the recipe to feed a crowd without any hassle.

16. Classic Chilli

Classic Chili is the kind of dish that makes any meal feel like home. Simple, hearty, and full of flavor, this recipe combines ground beef, beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a blend of warm spices for a comforting meal in just 40 minutes.

Kidney beans are the traditional choice, but feel free to swap in black beans or whatever you have on hand. And if you're not a fan of beans, a Texas-style chili with just beef will hit the spot. This classic recipe is easily customizable to suit your tastes and makes great leftovers.

FAQs About Ground Beef

1. Is ground beef healthy?
   Ground beef can be part of a healthy diet if eaten in moderation. It's a great source of protein, iron, and B vitamins. However, the fat content varies. Leaner options like 90/10 or ground sirloin have less saturated fat than 80/20 blends. Choosing lean cuts, draining excess fat, and balancing your meals with vegetables and whole grains can make ground beef a nutritious option.

2. How many calories and protein are in a pound of ground beef?
   A pound of 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) contains roughly 1,150–1,200 calories and about 75–80 grams of protein. The exact numbers vary depending on fat content. Leaner beef, like 90/10, will have fewer calories but still provide high protein. Cooking also reduces fat and moisture, which affects the final calorie count.

3. How many carbs and sodium are in ground beef?
   Ground beef has virtually no carbohydrates. It’s a zero-carb food unless you add sauces or fillers. Sodium content depends on whether it's seasoned or plain. Raw, unseasoned ground beef contains about 60–70 mg of sodium per 4-ounce serving. Always check labels for pre-seasoned or processed versions, which may have more sodium.

4. How much ground beef should I use per person for tacos?
   For tacos, plan on about ¼ to ⅓ pound of ground beef per person. If you're serving multiple toppings or sides, a quarter pound per person usually works well. For hungrier groups or fewer side dishes, go closer to ⅓ pound.

5. How many cups make up a pound of ground beef?
   One pound of cooked and crumbled ground beef is roughly 2 to 2½ cups, depending on how finely it’s broken up. Keep in mind that raw ground beef shrinks during cooking due to fat and moisture loss.

6. What temperature should ground beef be cooked to?
   Ground beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This ensures that harmful bacteria like E. coli are killed. Always use a food thermometer to check doneness—color alone isn't reliable.

7. Can you cook frozen ground beef?
   Yes, you can cook frozen ground beef, but it’ll take longer and may cook unevenly. For best results, thaw it first in the fridge, microwave, or under cold water. If cooking from frozen, break it apart as it thaws in the pan and cook thoroughly until no pink remains.

8. How do I defrost ground beef quickly?
   To defrost ground beef fast, place it in a microwave-safe container and use your microwave’s defrost setting. Rotate or flip it halfway through. Another method is to seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.

9. How long does ground beef last in the freezer?
   Ground beef lasts up to 4 months in the freezer if stored properly. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, foil, or a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date for easy tracking.

10. How long is cooked ground beef good for in the fridge?
    Cooked ground beef stays good in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat thoroughly before eating. If it smells off, has a strange texture, or looks gray, throw it out.

11. Can you refreeze ground beef?
    Yes, you can refreeze ground beef, but only if it was thawed in the refrigerator and hasn’t been sitting out for more than two hours. Refreezing may slightly change the texture, but it's still safe to eat.

12. How do you know if ground beef has gone bad?
    Spoiled ground beef usually smells sour or rotten, has a slimy feel, or turns gray or brown throughout (not just on the surface). If you notice any of these signs, it’s safest to throw it out.

13. What’s the difference between ground beef and ground chuck?
    Ground chuck comes from the shoulder and usually has a 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio. It holds its shape well for burgers. Ground beef can come from various cuts and may have more or less fat. Ground sirloin, for example, is leaner and comes from the midsection.

14. What is wagyu ground beef?
    Wagyu ground beef comes from Japanese cattle known for their high-quality marbling. It’s richer and more flavorful than regular ground beef and tends to be more expensive. It’s often used in gourmet burgers and special dishes.

15. What is a chub of ground beef?
    A chub is a tube-shaped package of ground beef, often seen in bulk purchases. It’s sealed in plastic, typically without a tray, and may contain 1 to 10 pounds. It's just a different form of packaging, not a different product.

16. Is ground beef still good if it turns brown?
    A brown color on the inside of ground beef isn’t always a sign it’s gone bad. Meat can turn brown due to lack of oxygen. However, if it smells off, feels slimy, or is brown throughout, it’s best to discard it.

17. Can you eat ground beef medium rare?
    No, it’s not safe to eat ground beef medium rare. Unlike whole cuts of meat, bacteria in ground beef can be spread throughout the mix. Always cook it to 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.

18. Do you season ground beef before or after cooking?
    Salt and seasonings can be added either before or during cooking. If you're forming patties, season the surface just before cooking. For crumbled ground beef, it’s best to cook first, drain excess fat, then season for even flavor.

19. How do I dispose of grease from ground beef?
    Let the grease cool, then pour it into a container like an empty can or jar. Once solid, throw it in the trash. Don’t pour it down the sink—it can clog your pipes.

20. What can I add to ground beef for more flavor?
    For better flavor, try adding diced onions, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, or herbs. Cooking with broth or tomato paste can also enhance taste. Adjust seasonings based on what dish you're making.

21. How much taco seasoning should I use per pound of ground beef?
    Use about 2 to 3 tablespoons of taco seasoning per pound of ground beef. If using a seasoning packet, one packet usually covers one pound. Add it after browning and draining the beef, then mix with a bit of water and simmer.

22. How do I season ground beef for spaghetti?
    Season ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic, and Italian herbs like oregano and basil. Add diced onions and cook until the beef is browned. Then combine with tomato sauce and simmer to let the flavors blend.

23. How do I make ground beef taste like sausage?
    To mimic sausage flavor, mix ground beef with seasonings like fennel seeds, crushed red pepper, paprika, garlic powder, sage, and salt. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking for best flavor.

24. How much salt should I use per pound of ground beef?
    A general rule is about 1 to 1¼ teaspoons of salt per pound of ground beef. If you’re using other salty ingredients, reduce accordingly. Always taste and adjust to your preference.

25. How much is 4 ounces of ground beef?
    Four ounces of ground beef is about the size of a deck of cards or half a cup cooked. It contains roughly 250–300 calories and 20–25 grams of protein, depending on the fat content.

26. Do you weigh ground beef raw or cooked?
    Nutrition labels refer to raw weight. Ground beef loses moisture and fat when cooked, so 4 ounces raw will weigh about 3 ounces cooked. Weigh it raw for accurate portion tracking.

27. Does fat cook out of ground beef?
    Yes, some fat renders out during cooking. You can drain it off to lower the fat content. However, not all fat is removed, and the final amount depends on the beef’s fat ratio and how it’s cooked.

28. Can you cook ground beef in a crockpot?
    Yes, but it's best to brown it first for flavor and food safety. Once browned, add it to the crockpot with your other ingredients. If you're in a rush, some recipes allow for adding raw ground beef directly.

29. Can you air fry or boil ground beef?
    Yes, you can cook ground beef in an air fryer or by boiling it. For the air fryer, cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, breaking it up halfway. To boil, crumble the meat into a pot of water and simmer for 10–15 minutes, then drain.

30. How do I make Rotel dip with ground beef?
    Brown one pound of ground beef, drain the fat, then mix in a can of Rotel tomatoes and a block of Velveeta or another melting cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and smooth. Serve warm with chips.

31. What can I make with ground beef and potatoes (or mashed potatoes)?
    Ground beef and potatoes make a great base for dishes like shepherd’s pie, hash, or casseroles. You can also stuff bell peppers or use them in skillet meals with veggies and cheese.

32. Can you use ground beef for Philly Cheesesteaks?
    Traditional Philly cheesesteaks use thinly sliced beef, but ground beef can be a quick substitute. Sauté with onions and peppers, then pile into a hoagie roll and top with cheese. It won’t be authentic, but it’s still tasty.

33. Can you sous vide or dehydrate ground beef?
    Yes. You can sous vide ground beef at 138–140°F, though it’s not common. For dehydrating, cook and drain the beef first, then dry it in a dehydrator at 160°F until crumbly and dry. Great for hiking meals.

34. What is the best way to store raw ground beef in the fridge?
    Keep raw ground beef in its original packaging if you’ll use it within 1–2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or place it in an airtight container. Store it on the bottom shelf of the fridge to avoid cross-contamination.

35. Can you freeze cooked ground beef?
    Yes, cooked ground beef freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Label it with the date and use within 2 to 3 months for best taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen.