Photo credit: Chocolates & Chai.
When dinner needs to be quick, easy, and satisfying, ground beef is always a go-to. These 30 recipes will help you turn a simple pound of beef into a meal the whole family will love—without spending hours in the kitchen. From hearty pastas to comforting casseroles and flavor-packed skillet meals, there’s something for every craving. Many of these dishes use pantry staples, making them perfect for nights when you don’t have time for a grocery run. Get ready to simplify dinner while still keeping it delicious!
Zucchini Lasagna
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
This lasagna swaps traditional noodles for zucchini, making it a lighter option for busy nights. The layers of ground beef, sauce, and cheese come together for a filling meal. It bakes in one dish, keeping prep and cleanup simple. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread. Whether for a weeknight meal or meal prep, this dish makes dinner easy.
Get the Recipe Here: Zucchini Lasagna
Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
This casserole brings the flavors of stuffed peppers without the extra prep work. The ground beef, rice, and bell peppers cook together in one dish, making it a practical choice for busy evenings. The combination of ingredients makes it a hearty and balanced meal. It reheats well, making leftovers just as good the next day. Whether for a quick dinner or a make-ahead meal, this casserole keeps things simple.
Get the Recipe Here: Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
Using the Instant Pot speeds up the cooking time while keeping the peppers tender and flavorful. The ground beef and rice filling makes this a well-rounded meal. Everything cooks together, reducing hands-on time in the kitchen. Serve them as-is or with a side of steamed vegetables. Whether for a last-minute dinner or an easy prep meal, these stuffed peppers are a great option.
Get the Recipe Here: Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers
Spaghetti and Meatball Biscuit Pies
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
These mini pies bring together classic spaghetti and meatballs in a fun, handheld form. The biscuit base makes them easy to serve, making them great for family meals. They bake quickly, cutting down on time spent in the kitchen. Serve them with a side of marinara or a fresh salad. Whether for a casual dinner or a meal prep idea, these pies are a simple way to switch up a classic dish.
Get the Recipe Here: Spaghetti and Meatball Biscuit Pies
Spinach and Asiago Beef Burgers
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
These burgers mix ground beef with spinach and asiago cheese for a flavorful twist. They cook up quickly, making them a good option for nights when time is limited. The cheese adds richness while the spinach keeps them balanced. Serve them with a bun or on their own with a side of roasted vegetables. Whether for a weeknight meal or a backyard cookout, these burgers keep things easy.
Get the Recipe Here: Spinach and Asiago Beef Burgers
Cuban Picadillo
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
This dish combines ground beef with tomatoes, olives, and spices for a well-seasoned meal. It cooks in one pan, making it convenient for busy nights. The flavors blend together as it simmers, creating a hearty and comforting dish. Serve it over rice or with warm tortillas. Whether for a quick dinner or a make-ahead meal, this dish is a great choice.
Get the Recipe Here: Cuban Picadillo
Weight Watchers Shipwreck Casserole
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
This layered casserole brings together beef, potatoes, and vegetables in one dish. Everything bakes together, making it a convenient dinner option. The mix of ingredients makes it a filling meal with little effort. It’s easy to customize with different seasonings or toppings. Whether for a weeknight dinner or leftovers the next day, this casserole keeps things simple.
Get the Recipe Here: Weight Watchers Shipwreck Casserole
Frito Taco Casserole
Photo credit: Well Fed Baker.
This casserole layers ground beef, cheese, and crispy Fritos for a fun take on taco night. It bakes in one dish, keeping preparation and cleanup easy. The crunchy topping adds texture while the beef and cheese make it a hearty meal. Serve it with sour cream or fresh salsa on the side. Whether for a family dinner or a casual meal, this dish brings great flavors with little effort.
Get the Recipe Here: Frito Taco Casserole
Gluten Free Swedish Meatballs
Photo credit: Well Fed Baker.
These meatballs cook up tender in a rich, creamy sauce that pairs well with rice or mashed potatoes. The dish comes together quickly, making it a practical option for busy evenings. The smooth sauce balances the hearty beef for a comforting meal. Serve them with a side of vegetables or a simple salad. Whether for a quick dinner or a special meal, these meatballs are a great addition to the table.
Get the Recipe Here: Gluten Free Swedish Meatballs
Old-Fashioned American Goulash
Photo credit: Jennifer Cooks.
This one-pot meal combines ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce for a warm and filling dinner. It’s an easy option when time is limited, as everything cooks together. The flavors blend well, making it a comforting and familiar dish. Serve it with a sprinkle of cheese or a side of bread. Whether for a quick meal or leftovers the next day, this dish keeps dinner stress-free.
Get the Recipe Here: Old-Fashioned American Goulash
Classic Stuffed Peppers
Photo credit: Jennifer Cooks.
These peppers are filled with seasoned ground beef and rice, making them a hearty and balanced meal. They bake in the oven, keeping hands-on time minimal. The peppers soften as they cook, absorbing the flavors of the filling. Serve them with a side of vegetables or a light salad. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, these stuffed peppers are an easy choice.
Get the Recipe Here: Classic Stuffed Peppers
Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
Photo credit: The Cookin Chicks.
This casserole combines seasoned ground beef with a cornbread topping for a warm and filling meal. It bakes in one dish, keeping things simple for busy nights. The cornbread adds a slight sweetness that balances the savory beef. Serve it with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a meal to share, this dish is a practical choice.
Get the Recipe Here: Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Photo credit: The Cookin Chicks.
This casserole blends beef, rice, and cheese in a warm and comforting dish. Everything cooks together in one pan, making it a great choice when time is limited. The cheese adds a creamy texture, while the beef makes it hearty. Serve it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. Whether for a busy night or a meal prep idea, this dish keeps things easy.
Get the Recipe Here: Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ground Beef and Potatoes
Photo credit: The Forked Spoon.
This skillet meal brings together beef and potatoes for a simple and filling dinner. It cooks quickly in one pan, making it a great option for weeknights. The potatoes soak up the flavors, making every bite hearty and balanced. Serve it with a side of vegetables or a fried egg on top. Whether for a last-minute dinner or a meal prep idea, this dish keeps things simple.
Get the Recipe Here: Ground Beef and Potatoes
Italian Creamy Beef Ragu
Photo credit: The Pasta Project.
This ragu simmers ground beef in a creamy tomato sauce, making it rich and flavorful. It pairs well with pasta or polenta for a comforting meal. The sauce thickens as it cooks, creating a hearty dish with minimal effort. Serve it with grated cheese and a side of garlic bread. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this ragu brings great flavors with little work.
Get the Recipe Here: Italian Creamy Beef Ragu
Tagliatelle Bolognese
Photo credit: The Pasta Project.
This classic pasta dish brings together ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatics in a rich, slow-simmered sauce. The thick tagliatelle noodles hold the sauce well, making every bite hearty. It’s a great option for nights when you want a comforting meal without too much effort. Serve it with grated cheese and crusty bread. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a meal to prep ahead, this dish is always a good choice.
Get the Recipe Here: Tagliatelle Bolognese
Crockpot Mexican Casserole
Photo credit: Haute & Healthy Living.
This slow-cooked casserole combines ground beef, beans, and spices for a hands-off dinner option. The crockpot does the work, making it ideal for busy nights. The flavors blend together as it cooks, creating a hearty and well-seasoned meal. Serve it with sour cream, salsa, or a side of tortilla chips. Whether for a family meal or leftovers the next day, this dish keeps dinner easy.
Get the Recipe Here: Crockpot Mexican Casserole
Ground Beef Bulgogi
Photo credit: The Peasant's Daughter.
This dish turns ground beef into a flavorful meal with a mix of sweet and savory seasonings. It cooks quickly, making it a great choice for nights when time is limited. Serve it over rice or in lettuce wraps for a simple and balanced dinner. The beef soaks up the sauce, keeping it rich without extra work. Whether for a weeknight meal or something different from the usual routine, this dish keeps things interesting.
Get the Recipe Here: Ground Beef Bulgogi
Creamy One-Pot Ravioli Soup
Photo credit: Ground Beef Recipes.
This soup blends ground beef, cheese-filled ravioli, and a creamy broth for a warm and filling meal. Everything cooks in one pot, cutting down on dishes and making dinner easier. The ravioli adds heartiness while the beef keeps it balanced. Serve it with a sprinkle of cheese and a side of bread. Whether for a quick dinner or a cozy meal, this soup is a great choice.
Get the Recipe Here: Creamy One-Pot Ravioli Soup
Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet
Photo credit: Cook Dinner Tonight.
This one-pan meal combines ground beef, rice, and bold spices for a quick and easy dinner. Everything cooks together, keeping cleanup simple. The rice absorbs the flavors, making every bite well-seasoned and hearty. Serve it with avocado, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime. Whether for a fast meal or a way to use pantry staples, this skillet dish is a smart option.
Get the Recipe Here: Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Photo credit: I Heart Eating.
This soup combines ground beef, beans, and pasta in a warm, comforting broth. It’s a great way to get a filling meal with minimal prep. The ingredients cook together, creating a well-balanced dish that works for any night of the week. Serve it with grated cheese and a side of crusty bread. Whether for a quick meal or something to reheat later, this soup makes dinner simple.
Get the Recipe Here: Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Beef Zucchini Enchiladas
Photo credit: Ramona's Cuisine.
These enchiladas use zucchini in place of traditional tortillas, making them a lighter choice for busy nights. The ground beef filling is well-seasoned and pairs well with the melted cheese and sauce. Everything bakes together in one dish, keeping prep and cleanup easy. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream or fresh salsa. Whether for a simple dinner or a meal to make ahead, these enchiladas bring great flavor with little effort.
Get the Recipe Here: Beef Zucchini Enchiladas
Cabbage Casserole
Photo credit: Ramona's Cuisine.
This layered casserole combines ground beef, cabbage, and a flavorful tomato sauce for a hearty meal. Everything bakes together, making it a practical choice for weeknights. The cabbage softens as it cooks, blending well with the beef and sauce. Serve it on its own or with a side of bread. Whether for a comforting meal or something easy to reheat, this casserole is a great pick.
Get the Recipe Here: Cabbage Casserole
Hamburger Stew
Photo credit: Kelly Neil.
This stew brings together ground beef, vegetables, and a rich broth for a warm and filling dinner. Everything simmers in one pot, making it easy to prepare. The flavors blend as it cooks, creating a well-balanced meal with minimal effort. Serve it with crackers or bread for a complete dish. Whether for a cozy dinner or something to meal prep, this stew keeps things simple.
Get the Recipe Here: Hamburger Stew
Lebanese Meat-Stuffed Pitas
Photo credit: Chocolates & Chai.
These pitas are filled with seasoned ground beef and baked until warm and crisp. The beef is well-spiced, making each bite flavorful without extra effort. They’re easy to prepare and great for serving with yogurt or a fresh salad. The handheld size makes them a practical choice for busy nights. Whether for a quick dinner or something different from the usual routine, these pitas are a great option.
Get the Recipe Here: Lebanese Meat-Stuffed Pitas
Turkish Pide with Beef
Photo credit: Chocolates & Chai.
This dish features a thick, boat-shaped flatbread filled with seasoned ground beef. The bread bakes until golden, holding the filling in place for an easy-to-eat meal. It’s great for sharing or serving alongside a fresh salad. The beef is well-seasoned, making each slice full of flavor. Whether for a casual dinner or a meal to switch things up, this dish is a good choice.
Get the Recipe Here: Turkish Pide with Beef
Juicy Gourmet Burgers
Photo credit: My Chef's Apron.
These burgers use high-quality ground beef and simple seasonings to create a rich, flavorful meal. They cook quickly, making them a great option for busy nights. The meat stays juicy while forming a good sear on the outside. Serve them with your favorite toppings and a side of fries or salad. Whether for a weeknight meal or a weekend cookout, these burgers keep things simple and satisfying.
Get the Recipe Here: Juicy Gourmet Burgers
Beef Bulgogi Bowl
Photo credit: Cooked & Loved.
This dish brings together marinated ground beef, rice, and fresh toppings for a well-balanced meal. The beef cooks quickly, making it a great choice when time is limited. The mix of flavors pairs well with simple sides like steamed vegetables or kimchi. Serve it with a drizzle of sauce for extra flavor. Whether for a quick meal or something easy to customize, this bowl is a great option.
Get the Recipe Here: Beef Bulgogi Bowl
Dutch Oven Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Photo credit: Simple And Fraiche.
These meatballs simmer in a rich tomato sauce, making them tender and flavorful. Everything cooks in one pot, keeping cleanup simple. The sauce thickens as it simmers, creating a well-balanced dish that pairs well with pasta or bread. Serve them with a sprinkle of cheese and a side of vegetables. Whether for a cozy meal or something to make ahead, this dish keeps things easy.
Get the Recipe Here: Dutch Oven Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Cheesy Baked Meatballs
Photo credit: Sheri Silver.
These meatballs bake in a cheesy tomato sauce, making them a warm and comforting meal. The cheese melts into the sauce, adding extra richness without extra effort. They cook in one dish, keeping preparation and cleanup simple. Serve them with pasta, bread, or a side salad. Whether for a weeknight dinner or something to reheat later, these meatballs are a great option.
Get the Recipe Here: Cheesy Baked Meatballs
