12 Easy Ground Beef Recipes for Dinner

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Ground beef is one of the most versatile ingredients for quick, easy, and satisfying dinners. Whether you’re craving a comforting casserole or a savory noodle dish, there’s something here for everyone.

These ground beef recipes for dinner are simple, packed with flavor, and perfect for weeknight meals.

Let’s dive into these delicious ideas that will make your dinner planning a breeze.

1. Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

This one-pan wonder is a family favorite. The combination of ground beef, rice, and veggies makes for a filling and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Servings and Yield

Serves 4-6 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion, garlic and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the rice, beef broth, and diced tomatoes (taste and adjust seasoning). Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the rice is tender, about 20 minutes.
4. Once the rice is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and serve hot.

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2. Beefaroni

Beefaroni is a nostalgic dish that combines ground beef and pasta in a rich tomato sauce. It’s a comfort food classic that’s both kid-friendly and easy to make.

Servings and Yield

Serves 4-5 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 3 cups elbow macaroni, cooked
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Beefaroni

1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet until browned, then drain the excess fat.
2. Stir in the tomato sauce, garlic powder, italian seasoning and onion powder. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the cooked elbow macaroni and stir until well combined.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and allow it to melt before serving.

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3. Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef

Inspired by Mongolian beef, this noodle dish pairs ground beef with savory, slightly sweet sauce and tender noodles for an easy takeout-style dinner.

Servings and Yield

Serves 4 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz noodles (such as lo mein or spaghetti)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef

1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain any fat.
3. Stir in the garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ground ginger. Simmer for 5 minutes and taste for seasing.
4. Add the noodles to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve.

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4. Ground Beef Stroganoff

Ground beef stroganoff is a quicker, simpler version of the classic Russian dish. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with egg noodles for a comforting meal.

Servings and Yield

Serves 4 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 tbsp flour
• 8 oz egg noodles, cooked
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet, then drain the fat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well.
3. Pour in the beef broth, condensed cream of mushroom soup and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in the sour cream and season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve the sauce over cooked egg noodles.

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5. Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef

This zucchini casserole is loaded with ground beef, cheese, and tender zucchini, making it a hearty and low-carb dinner option.

Servings and Yield

Serves 6-8 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 pounds zucchini sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet with olive oil, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
3. Brown Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until no pink remains.
4. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine sliced zucchini, the beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream, all-purpose flour, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
5. Layer Casserole: In a greased casserole dish, spread half the mixture. Sprinkle half the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers.
6. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
7. Serve: Allow to cool slightly, then slice and enjoy!

6. Hamburger Potato Casserole

This cheesy, hearty casserole combines ground beef, potatoes, and cheese for a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.

Servings and Yield

Serves 6 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk (or broth)
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme (optional)

How to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is soft and translucent. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine the cream of mushroom soup with 1/2 cup of milk (or broth) in a bowl and mix well.
4. In a baking dish, layer half of the potatoes on the bottom. Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes, followed by half of the soup mixture. If using bacon bits, sprinkle a layer on top. Repeat the layers.
5. Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly. If desired, add panko breadcrumbs mixed with butter in the last 10 minutes for a crispy topping.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme, if using.

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7. Ground Beef and Pasta Skillet

This skillet meal is perfect for busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast. It’s loaded with beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce.

Servings and Yield

Serves 4-6 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional for added flavor)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Ground Beef and Pasta Skillet

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain the excess fat. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using).
3. Stir in the tomato sauce and simmer the beef mixture for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well until everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
5. Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 3-5 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

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8. Korean Ground Beef Bowl

This Korean-inspired dish is quick, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s made with savory ground beef and served over rice.

Servings and Yield

Serves 4 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Cooked white rice, for serving
• Green onions, sliced thin, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice (optional for tang)
• 1/2 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional, for added depth)

How to Make Korean Beef Bowl

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat, leaving a small amount for flavor.
2. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the beef and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the beef.
4. Optional: For a touch of acidity, add 1 tbsp of rice vinegar or lime juice at the end of cooking to brighten the dish.
5. Serve the beef over bowls of hot, cooked white rice.
6. Garnish with sliced green onions, kimchi and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. For added flavor, top with a pinch of toasted sesame seeds.

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9. Ground Beef Taco Casserole

A family-friendly favorite, this taco casserole is loaded with layers of ground beef, cheese, and crispy tortilla chips, making it the perfect meal for taco night.

Servings and Yield

Serves 6-8 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend: 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend)
• 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional, for more flavor)
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 4 cups tortilla chips (slightly crushed)
• Sour cream, for serving
• Salsa, for serving
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Ground Beef Taco Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add chopped onions (if using) and cook until soft. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Simmer for 3-5 minutes to combine the flavors.
4. In a baking dish, layer half of the slightly crushed tortilla chips on the bottom. Spread the ground beef mixture evenly over the chips. Add sliced black olives if using. Top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve the casserole hot, topped with sour cream, salsa, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, if desired.

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10. Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas

Quesadillas are always a hit, and these cheesy ground beef quesadillas are no exception. With gooey melted cheese and seasoned beef, these are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Servings and Yield

Serves 4 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (or a mix of Oaxaca and cheddar)
• 8 flour tortillas
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Salsa, sour cream, and guacamole, for serving

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until softened (about 3 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Season the Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for an additional 2 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed to evenly coat the beef.
3. Prepare the Quesadillas: Heat a tortilla in a skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle one half with shredded cheese, followed by a spoonful of the seasoned beef mixture. Fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling.
4. Cook: Cook each side of the quesadilla for 2-3 minutes until the tortilla is golden and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted.
5. Serve: Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and lime wedges. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

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11. Ground Beef Enchiladas

These enchiladas are bursting with flavor from the seasoned ground beef, cheese, and spicy enchilada sauce. Perfect for a hearty weeknight meal, these are sure to be a family favorite.

Servings and Yield

Serves 6 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 8 flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for a more authentic option)
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (or cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
• Sour cream, for serving
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Assemble the Enchiladas: Lay out the tortillas, and place a spoonful of the seasoned beef and some shredded cheese in each one. Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
4. Add the Sauce: Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve the enchiladas hot, topped with sour cream and garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

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12. Ground Beef Lasagna

This ground beef lasagna is a layered masterpiece of beef, cheese, and sauce. It’s a comforting and filling meal that’s trending for its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing results.

Servings and Yield

Serves 8 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 9 lasagna noodles
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional for more flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Ground Beef Lasagna

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the shredded mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a greased baking dish. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture, followed by a layer of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers (noodles, ricotta, sauce) two more times, ending with a final layer of sauce.
5. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
7. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

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Ground beef offers an endless array of easy and delicious dinner options.

Make planning weeknight dinners stress-free.

Whether you’re looking for a hearty casserole, a quick skillet meal, or a takeout-style bowl, these recipes offer delicious options to make your dinner time easier and more enjoyable.

Other Dinner Recipes to Try!

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