15 Easy Ground Beef Dinner Recipes for Busy Weeknights
Ground beef is a go-to for quick, tasty meals, and these 15 no-fuss dinners make weeknight cooking a breeze. With simple ingredients and easy prep, you can whip up satisfying dishes that are sure to please everyone at the table. Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hello to delicious ground beef dinners that fit seamlessly into your busy schedule!
Classic Beef and Vegetable Soup
This Classic Beef and Vegetable Soup is the perfect comfort food for any day of the week. Packed with tender beef and vibrant vegetables, it offers a hearty and satisfying bowl that warms you from the inside out. It’s simple to make, allowing you to focus on enjoying a delicious meal without the fuss.
The rich flavors of the beef meld beautifully with fresh carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers, creating a dish that’s both nutritious and filling. It’s the kind of soup that fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma and brings everyone to the table. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover veggies you have on hand!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, draining any excess fat.
- Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and thyme. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot. Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup!
Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake
Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake is a fantastic weeknight dinner that combines the comforting qualities of pasta with the bold flavors of taco seasoning. This dish is not only delicious but also super simple to prepare, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike. Imagine a hearty casserole filled with tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and gooey melted cheese that brings everything together!
The zesty flavors of taco seasoning paired with cheese create a delightful fusion that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with family. Get ready for a flavorful feast that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 3 cups cooked pasta (elbow or rigatoni work well)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup salsa
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the taco seasoning to the beef, along with the diced tomatoes, corn, and salsa. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Fold in 1 cup of cheese, mixing well.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading evenly. Top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake!
Quick Beef Chili with Beans
Quick Beef Chili with Beans is a hearty dish that brings a cozy warmth to any meal. Packed with ground beef, beans, and a mix of spices, it delivers a delightful blend of flavors that are both comforting and satisfying. This recipe is simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family.
The chili’s rich taste comes from simmering the beef with tomatoes, peppers, and spices, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. Top it off with your favorite garnishes like cheese and green onions for an extra touch. It pairs wonderfully with some crusty bread, perfect for dipping!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot and garnish with shredded cheese and green onions if desired.
Easy Beef Stroganoff with Noodles
This Easy Beef Stroganoff with Noodles is a comforting dish that brings together tender beef, savory mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, all served over a bed of warm noodles. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something hearty but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. The flavors meld beautifully, making each bite satisfying and delicious.
What makes this recipe so appealing is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a meal that feels special without the fuss. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—great for families or gatherings!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Add the Mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes, until they are tender.
- Mix in the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Finish with Sour Cream: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked noodles into the beef mixture until well combined. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
One-Pan Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This One-Pan Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a delightful blend of tender beef and crunchy broccoli, all tossed together in a savory sauce. It’s a quick and easy dish that offers a burst of flavor without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this stir-fry is not only simple to make, but it also packs a nutritious punch. The combination of protein from the beef and vitamins from the vegetables makes it a well-rounded meal that the whole family will love. Serve it over rice for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper.
- Once the beef is browned, add the garlic and ginger. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and water. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir until everything is well-coated and the sauce thickens.
- Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice and enjoy!
One-Skillet Beef and Rice Casserole
This one-skillet beef and rice casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together tender beef, flavorful rice, and colorful veggies in one easy meal. It’s great for busy weeknights since everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
The dish is savory and slightly sweet from the sautéed carrots, balanced by the earthiness of peas. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is not only quick to make but also customizable, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned.
- Add Rice and Broth: Stir in rice, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Add Vegetables: Once simmering, stir in the diced carrots and frozen peas. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Fluff and Serve: Once done, fluff the rice with a fork, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot!
Savory Beef and Mushroom Quesadillas
These Savory Beef and Mushroom Quesadillas are a delightful and easy meal that’s packed with flavor. With tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and melted cheese all sandwiched between crispy tortillas, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Making these quesadillas is simple, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Just sauté the grounding beef with mushrooms, fill the tortillas, and grill until golden brown. They pair wonderfully with salsa or sour cream for dipping!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream and salsa for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in sliced mushrooms, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until mushrooms are tender.
- Assemble the Quesadillas: Take a tortilla and sprinkle half with cheese, then add the beef and mushroom mixture. Top with more cheese and fold the tortilla in half.
- Cook the Quesadillas: In the same skillet, add the folded quesadilla and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crisp, adding more oil if needed. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- Serve: Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve hot with sour cream and salsa on the side.
Simple Beef Tacos with Fresh Toppings
Simple beef tacos are a delightful solution for a quick dinner. They pack a punch of flavor with seasoned ground beef and a variety of fresh toppings. You can customize them to suit your taste, making them a family favorite.
This recipe is easy to prepare, allowing you to whip up dinner in no time. The combination of tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and creamy toppings creates a delicious balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Sour cream and hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- While the beef is simmering, warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
- Assemble the tacos by placing a generous amount of the beef mixture on each tortilla.
- Top with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, onions, cheese, and cilantro. Add sour cream and hot sauce if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and easy tacos!
Beefy Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes
Beefy Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. With a rich ground beef filling, seasoned vegetables, and a creamy layer of mashed potatoes on top, this dish packs a punch of flavor and texture. It’s an easy recipe that makes for a perfect weeknight dinner, filling your home with delicious aromas that will have everyone gathered around the table.
The beauty of Shepherd’s Pie lies in its simplicity. You can whip it together in no time, making it great for busy evenings. The combination of savory meat and fluffy potatoes creates a dish that’s not only tasty but also comforting, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots, cooking until soft.
- Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish and spread the prepared mashed potatoes on top. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ground beef stuffed bell peppers are a delicious, colorful, and nutritious meal that’s easy to whip up any night of the week. These vibrant peppers not only look great on the plate, but they are also packed with flavor and can be customized to fit your taste. The savory filling of seasoned beef, rice, and spices creates a hearty dish that the whole family will enjoy.
This recipe is perfect for those busy evenings when you want something satisfying without the fuss. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a wholesome dinner on the table in no time. Stuffed peppers are not only comforting but also an excellent way to sneak in some veggies!
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until heated through.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, pressing down gently. Top with shredded cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your flavorful ground beef stuffed bell peppers!
Zesty Beef and Bean Burritos
Zesty Beef and Bean Burritos are a delightful way to enjoy a quick and satisfying meal. With seasoned ground beef, hearty beans, and a sprinkle of spices, these burritos are packed with flavor. The combination of textures and tastes makes each bite a tasty experience.
This recipe is simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. You can customize it to your liking by adding your favorite toppings, like salsa or guacamole, making it a versatile choice for everyone.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Optional: sour cream or guacamole for serving
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in the taco seasoning, beans, and salsa. Cook for about 5 minutes until heated through.
- Fill the Tortillas: Lay out each tortilla and fill with the beef and bean mixture. Top with shredded cheese.
- Roll Them Up: Fold in the sides of each tortilla and roll tightly. Place seam-side down on a plate.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream or guacamole if desired.
Creamy Beef and Spinach Pasta
This creamy beef and spinach pasta is a winner for busy weeknights. It combines hearty ground beef, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, flavorful sauce that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The creamy texture makes it feel indulgent, while still being quick and easy to prepare.
You’ll love how simple it is to throw together. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some greens into your dinner!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (any type)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Spinach and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens.
- Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef and sauce. Mix well until everything is combined and heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and enjoy!
Beef and Potato Hash Skillet
This Beef and Potato Hash Skillet is a simple and satisfying dish that brings hearty flavors to your dinner table. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a perfectly fried egg on top creates a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan meal is easy to prepare and packed with taste. With a few basic ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s a great option for a no-fuss dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 eggs
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Stir in the diced potatoes and season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the skillet and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.
- Make four wells in the hash and crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the eggs are done to your liking.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Beef and Potato Hash Skillet!
Beefy Sloppy Joes on Brioche Buns
Beefy Sloppy Joes are a classic comfort food that blends ground beef with a deliciously tangy sauce, all piled high on soft brioche buns. This dish is hearty and satisfying, making it a perfect weeknight meal. With a mix of savory flavors and a touch of sweetness, these Sloppy Joes are sure to please everyone at the table.
Best of all, they’re incredibly easy to make! You can whip them up in under 30 minutes, making them a fantastic option for busy days. Serve them with a side of fries or a simple salad for a complete dinner that doesn’t require a lot of fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 brioche buns
- Pickles for topping
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
- Toast the brioche buns lightly on a skillet or in a toaster.
- Assemble the Sloppy Joes by spooning the beef mixture onto the buns and topping with pickles. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Ground Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This Ground Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry is a quick and easy dinner option that packs a punch of flavor. The combination of tender ground beef and vibrant veggies creates a delicious, hearty meal that everyone will love. Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
The stir-fry features a colorful mix of bell peppers, onions, and your choice of seasonal vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce that brings everything together. Not only is it tasty, but it’s also a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (like snap peas, carrots, or broccoli)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Stir in the sliced onion and bell peppers, cooking until they soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add mixed vegetables and soy sauce, stirring well. If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water and add for thickness.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.