Ground beef is a staple in many kitchens. It’s cheap, filling, and easy to cook with.

You can use it to make all kinds of meals, from simple to fancy.

These 26+ ground beef recipes give you lots of ideas for dinner. You’ll find classic dishes like meatloaf and burgers. There are also new takes on old favorites.

Whether you want a quick weeknight meal or something special for guests, you’ll find options here.

1. Classic Beef Stroganoff

Classic Beef Stroganoff is a tasty dish you can make with ground beef. It’s creamy and flavorful, perfect for a comforting meal.

To make it, you’ll cook ground beef with onions and mushrooms. Then add beef broth, sour cream, and spices to create a rich sauce.

Serve your Beef Stroganoff over egg noodles or rice.

It’s quick to prepare, usually taking less than an hour from start to finish.

This recipe is great for busy weeknights. You can easily adjust the flavors to suit your taste by adding more garlic or different herbs.

2. Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers

Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers are a tasty twist on classic tacos. You’ll need bell peppers, ground beef, taco seasoning, and your favorite taco toppings.

Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds. Brown the ground beef in a pan and drain the grease.

Add taco seasoning to the beef.

Fill the peppers with the seasoned beef. You can also add rice, beans, or corn for extra flavor. Top with cheese if you like.

Bake the stuffed peppers in the oven until they’re soft and the cheese is melted.

This meal is easy to make and packs a lot of flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy taco night with fewer carbs.

3. Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is a tasty ground beef dish topped with mashed potatoes. It’s perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes.

To make it, brown ground beef with onions and carrots. Add flour to thicken the mixture.

Stir in some ketchup for flavor.

Spread the beef in a baking dish and top with mashed potatoes. Sprinkle cheese on top if you like.

Bake until the potatoes are golden and the filling is bubbly.

You can customize shepherd’s pie by adding different vegetables or seasonings to the beef mixture. It’s an easy way to use what you have on hand.

4. Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

This quick and easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes using ground beef instead of sliced beef for convenience.

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add pre-cut broccoli florets to save time.

Stir-fry the ingredients together with a flavorful sauce.

This dish packs a protein punch and gives you a serving of veggies too. It’s both tasty and nutritious.

Serve it over rice for a complete meal the whole family will enjoy.

You can easily adjust the flavors to suit your taste. Try adding garlic, ginger, or your favorite stir-fry sauce for extra zing.

5. Beef Enchiladas

Beef enchiladas are a tasty Mexican dish you can easily make at home.

Start by cooking ground beef with onions and spices like cumin and chili powder.

Roll the seasoned beef in corn tortillas and place them in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.

Bake until the cheese melts and gets bubbly.

You can add toppings like sour cream, cilantro, or diced tomatoes before serving.

These enchiladas are filling and flavorful. They’re perfect for a family dinner or when you want to impress guests with your cooking skills.

6. Meatloaf with Gravy

Meatloaf with gravy is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make. You’ll need ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings for the meatloaf.

Mix these ingredients together and shape into a loaf. Bake it in the oven at 350°F for about an hour.

While it cooks, prepare a simple brown gravy. Combine beef broth, flour, and seasonings in a pan. Stir until it thickens.

When the meatloaf is done, let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with the warm gravy poured over top.

This hearty meal pairs well with mashed potatoes and green vegetables.

7. Beef and Bean Chili

Beef and bean chili is a hearty dish perfect for cold days. You start by browning ground beef in a large pot. Next, add diced onions and garlic for flavor.

Stir in tomato sauce, paste, and diced tomatoes. Season with chili powder, cumin, and oregano.

Let it simmer for about an hour to develop rich flavors.

Add kidney beans near the end of cooking. The beans make the chili more filling.

You can top your chili with cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

This recipe is easy to customize. Try different bean types or add veggies like bell peppers.

Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.

8. Hamburger Soup

Hamburger soup is a tasty and filling meal you can make with ground beef. It’s perfect for cold days when you want something warm and comforting.

To make it, brown the ground beef with onions, celery, and garlic in a large pot. Drain the fat, then add beef broth, tomatoes, and your choice of vegetables.

Popular veggie options include carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like Italian seasoning.

Let the soup simmer until the vegetables are tender.

You can cook it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker for convenience.

Serve your hamburger soup with fresh bread for a complete meal. It’s an easy way to use ground beef and get lots of veggies in one dish.

9. Spaghetti Bolognese

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. You’ll start by browning lean ground beef in a large skillet.

Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until soft. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings like oregano and salt.

Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes to thicken. Meanwhile, cook your spaghetti in a separate pot.

Once the pasta is al dente, toss it with the rich meat sauce. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

This hearty meal is sure to satisfy your whole family. It’s easy to make and packed with protein and carbs to fuel your day.

10. Salisbury Steak

Salisbury steak is a classic ground beef dish that’s easy to make at home. You’ll mix ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings to form patties.

Brown the patties in a skillet, then simmer them in a rich gravy. The gravy often includes beef broth, onions, and mushrooms for extra flavor.

This hearty meal is perfect for a cozy dinner.

Serve your Salisbury steak with mashed potatoes or egg noodles to soak up the tasty gravy. Add a side of steamed veggies for a complete meal.

11. Swedish Meatballs

Swedish meatballs are a tasty way to use ground beef. You’ll mix the beef with spices like allspice and nutmeg for a unique flavor.

Add breadcrumbs and egg to help bind the meat. Shape the mixture into small balls and fry them until browned.

The creamy sauce is what makes these meatballs special. Make a roux with butter and flour, then whisk in beef broth. Add a splash of cream for richness.

Serve your Swedish meatballs over egg noodles or mashed potatoes.

For a traditional touch, offer lingonberry jam on the side.

12. Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a tasty way to use ground beef. You’ll need cabbage leaves, rice, and ground beef for the filling.

Mix the beef with cooked rice, chopped onions, and an egg. This helps bind everything together.

Wrap the meat mixture in softened cabbage leaves. Place the rolls in a baking dish.

Pour tomato soup over the cabbage rolls before baking. This creates a flavorful sauce as they cook.

Bake the rolls until the cabbage is tender and the meat is cooked through.

The result is a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for cold days.

13. Beef Quesadillas

Beef quesadillas are a tasty and easy meal you can whip up quickly. Start by cooking ground beef with onions and spices like chili powder, oregano, and garlic powder.

Drain any excess grease from the meat.

Spread the seasoned beef on one half of a tortilla. Add shredded cheese on top of the meat.

Fold the tortilla in half and cook it in a skillet until golden brown on both sides. The cheese will melt and hold everything together.

You can customize your quesadillas with extra toppings like refried beans or green chiles.

Serve them hot, cut into wedges, with salsa or sour cream on the side.

14. Goulash

Goulash is a hearty one-pot meal perfect for cold nights. You’ll love this comforting dish made with ground beef, pasta, and a savory tomato sauce.

To make goulash, start by browning ground beef with onions and garlic. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth for a rich base.

Season the mixture with paprika, Italian herbs, and a splash of soy sauce for extra flavor.

Simmer everything together, then stir in elbow macaroni to cook until tender.

This easy recipe comes together quickly and feeds a crowd. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.

15. Beef Tacos

Beef tacos are a tasty and simple meal you can make in about 30 minutes. Start by browning ground beef in a skillet.

Add taco seasoning and a bit of water to create a flavorful sauce.

Heat your taco shells in the oven while the meat cooks. Once ready, spoon the beef into the shells.

Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and grated cheese.

You can customize your tacos with other toppings too. Try sour cream, avocado, or salsa.

Serve with rice and beans on the side for a complete meal.

Leftover taco meat keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. This makes tacos a great option for quick future meals.

16. Beef Empanadas

Beef empanadas are tasty hand-held pies filled with savory ground beef. To make them, cook ground beef with onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and paprika.

Add diced bell peppers and tomato paste for extra flavor. Let the filling cool before using.

Make or buy empanada dough, then fill each circle with the beef mixture. Fold and crimp the edges to seal.

Bake the empanadas until golden brown and flaky. You can also fry them for a crispier outside.

Serve beef empanadas hot as an appetizer or main dish. They’re perfect for parties or quick meals.

17. Beef and Vegetable Stir Fry

Beef and vegetable stir fry is a quick and tasty meal you can make in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a fast dinner.

To make this dish, you’ll need ground beef, your favorite veggies, and a simple stir fry sauce.

Common vegetables include bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots.

Cook the beef in a large pan or wok. Add the veggies and stir fry until tender-crisp.

Pour in the sauce and cook until everything is coated and heated through.

Serve your beef and vegetable stir fry over rice or noodles for a filling meal.

You can also swap ground beef for sliced steak if you prefer.

18. Grilled Beef Burgers

Grilled beef burgers are a classic summer favorite. You can make them easily at home with a few simple ingredients.

Start with 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. Form patties about 3/4 inch thick. Make a small indent in the center to prevent puffing.

Season the patties with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side. Add cheese in the last minute if desired.

Serve on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.

Try lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. Add ketchup, mustard, or mayo for extra flavor.

19. Beef Lasagna

Beef lasagna is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make at home. You’ll need ground beef, lasagna noodles, and cheese for this dish.

Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Add garlic, oregano, and salt for flavor. Mix in tomato sauce to create the meat sauce.

In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and eggs. This mixture will add creaminess to your lasagna.

Layer the ingredients in a baking dish. Start with sauce, then noodles, followed by the cheese mixture. Repeat these layers until you run out of ingredients.

Top with mozzarella cheese and bake until golden and bubbly. Let it cool before serving for the best texture.

20. Beef Burritos

Beef burritos are a tasty and filling meal you can make at home.

Start by cooking ground beef in a skillet with onions and garlic. Add spices like cumin and oregano for flavor.

Mix in some refried beans to make the filling extra creamy.

Warm up large flour tortillas and spoon the beef mixture into the center.

Top with shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sour cream. Roll up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.

You can customize your burritos with different ingredients.

Try adding rice, black beans, or bell peppers. Serve with salsa and guacamole on the side for dipping.

21. Beef Kofta

Beef kofta is a tasty Middle Eastern dish you can easily make at home. It uses ground beef mixed with spices and herbs.

To make kofta, combine lean ground beef with minced onions, parsley, and spices like cumin and allspice. Shape the mixture into ovals or around skewers.

You can grill, bake, or pan-fry beef kofta.

It’s often served with pita bread, rice, or salad. For a twist, try using ground lamb or a beef-lamb mix.

Beef kofta is great for meals or as an appetizer. You can make it ahead and freeze for later too.

22. Beef Curry

Beef curry is a tasty way to use ground beef. You can make it in about 30 minutes for a quick weeknight meal. The dish combines beef with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.

Many recipes also add potatoes and peas. This makes the curry filling and nutritious. You can adjust the spice level to your taste.

Serve beef curry over rice or with naan bread.

It’s a warm, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor. You can make extra and freeze it for later too.

23. Beef Sloppy Joes

Beef Sloppy Joes are a tasty and easy meal you can whip up in no time. To make them, brown ground beef in a pan with onions and garlic. Drain any excess fat.

Add a sauce made from ketchup, brown sugar, and spices to the beef. Simmer until the mixture thickens.

Serve the meaty filling on toasted hamburger buns. The messy sandwich got its name because it’s hard to eat neatly.

This classic American dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Kids and adults alike love the sweet and tangy flavors. Try it for your next quick dinner!

24. Beef and Mushroom Risotto

You can make a tasty beef and mushroom risotto at home. Start by browning ground beef in a large skillet. Add chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, and garlic.

Cook the mixture until the beef is no longer pink. Prepare risotto mix according to package directions. Stir the cooked beef and mushroom mixture into the risotto.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This hearty dish combines creamy rice with savory beef and earthy mushrooms. It’s a filling meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

25. Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Beef stuffed zucchini boats are a tasty and healthy meal option. You start by cutting zucchinis in half lengthwise and scooping out the insides to create boats.

Cook ground beef with onions, garlic, and spices like rosemary and thyme. Add tomato sauce and the chopped zucchini flesh to the beef mixture.

Fill the zucchini boats with the beef mixture. Top with cheese and bake until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

This dish combines lean protein, vegetables, and cheese for a filling meal. You can customize it with your favorite seasonings or toppings.

26. Beef Wellington Bites

Beef Wellington Bites are a tasty appetizer version of the classic dish. You start with small cubes of beef tenderloin. Sear them quickly in a hot pan for a nice crust.

Next, wrap each beef cube in a mixture of mushrooms and shallots. This gives the bites their signature flavor. Then, encase the beef in puff pastry squares.

Brush the pastry with egg wash for a golden finish. Bake the bites until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. The beef inside should be medium-rare.

Serve these bites warm as an elegant appetizer at your next party. They’re sure to impress your guests with their fancy look and rich taste.

Nutritional Benefits of Ground Beef

Ground beef offers key nutrients that support your health. It packs protein and important vitamins and minerals into a tasty, versatile package.

High Protein Content

Ground beef is an excellent source of protein. A 3-ounce serving gives you about 22 grams of protein. This nutrient helps build and repair your muscles, bones, and other tissues.

Protein also keeps you feeling full longer. This can help with weight control. Your body uses more energy to digest protein compared to fats or carbs.

Ground beef provides all the essential amino acids your body needs. These are the building blocks of protein that you must get from food.

Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Ground beef contains many vitamins and minerals that are important for your health. It’s rich in B vitamins, especially B12, which helps make red blood cells and DNA.

You’ll also get iron from ground beef. This mineral is key for carrying oxygen in your blood. Zinc in ground beef supports your immune system and helps wounds heal.

Ground beef provides selenium, an antioxidant that protects your cells. It also contains phosphorus for strong bones and teeth.

Cooking Techniques for Ground Beef

Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in many ways. The right technique can make a big difference in taste and texture.

Browning Methods

Pan-frying is a quick and easy way to brown ground beef. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and break it up with a spatula. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring often.

Oven-roasting creates a crispy texture. Spread the beef on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Steaming is good for leaner beef. Put the meat in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes.

Grilling gives a smoky flavor. Form the beef into patties. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side over high heat.

Flavor Enhancement Tips

Season the beef before cooking. Salt and pepper are basics.

Add garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs for more flavor.

Use aromatics like onions and garlic. Cook them in the pan before adding the beef.

Try different liquids. Wine, broth, or tomato sauce can add depth.

Experiment with spice blends. Taco seasoning, Italian herbs, or curry powder work well.

Add umami boosters. Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or mushrooms bring out meaty flavors.

Don’t overcook. Remove the beef from heat when it’s just done to keep it juicy.