Hello there, fellow foodies! Are you always on the lookout for simple yet delicious recipes to make on those busy weeknights? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of 10 easy ground beef recipes that will save you time and satisfy your hunger.
Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a multitude of dishes. From classic burgers to hearty chili, there’s no shortage of ways to use this protein-packed meat. Plus, it’s an affordable option that can stretch your grocery budget further.
Easy Ground Beef Recipes
Ground beef is an affordable, versatile ingredient that can be used to create a variety of delicious meals. With its tender texture and rich flavor, beef can be used to make classics like burgers and spaghetti Bolognese or modern favorites like beef tacos. Here are three easy ground beef recipes that you can try at home.
Classic Burgers
Nothing beats the taste of a juicy, mouth-watering burger. Making classic burgers from scratch is easier than you think. All you need are a few key ingredients: ground beef, salt, pepper, and your preferred toppings such as cheese, lettuce, onions, tomatoes, and pickles.
Start by seasoning the ground beef with salt and pepper. Mix it evenly with your hands. Divide the meat into four equal portions, then shape each portion into a patty. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are cooked through.
For a cheeseburger, add your preferred cheese on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking. Place the patties on a toasted bun with lettuce, onions, tomatoes, and pickles. Voila! You now have a classic burger that’s fit for any occasion.
Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that has become a staple in many households. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for those looking to whip up a quick and delicious dinner.
For this recipe, you’ll need ground beef, spaghetti, garlic, onion, canned tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and dried herbs such as basil and oregano. Start by boiling the spaghetti according to the package instructions. In a separate saucepan, sauté the garlic and onion until they become fragrant. Add the ground beef, and cook until browned. Add the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and herbs. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
Drain the pasta and add it to the saucepan with the Bolognese sauce. Toss the pasta and sauce until well combined. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread.
Beef Tacos
Who doesn’t love tacos? This easy recipe for beef tacos is a crowd-pleaser that can be customized with any toppings you like. For this recipe, you’ll need ground beef, taco seasoning, taco shells, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and sour cream.
Start by cooking the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then add the taco seasoning and about a half cup of water. Simmer for a few minutes until the beef is coated in the seasoning and the mixture has thickened.
Warm the taco shells in the oven or microwave, then fill them with the beef mixture, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and sour cream. Serve hot and enjoy!
In conclusion, these easy ground beef recipes are perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic burger, a hearty bowl of spaghetti Bolognese, or a modern take on tacos, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
One-Pot Meals
One-pot meals are a lifesaver when it comes to weeknight dinners. Not only do they require minimal clean-up, but they also guarantee a full and satisfying meal with all the necessary food groups. Here are some easy ground beef one-pot meals that you can add to your recipe list.
Beef Chili
Beef chili is a classic and popular dish that’s easy to make. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or when you have a big group of friends over. This recipe requires only a few ingredients and can be whipped up in less than an hour.
To make beef chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add the onions, green bell peppers, and garlic, and cook until softened, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes until the flavors have melded together.
- Serve with your choice of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.
Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s pie is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for cold nights. It’s a complete meal in one dish, and it’s easy to make ahead of time and reheated later. This recipe uses ground beef, mashed potatoes, and veggies for a fulfilling and delicious one-pot meal.
Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onions, garlic, and carrots over medium-high heat until the beef has browned and the veggies have softened.
- Stir in the frozen peas, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce, and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the mashed potatoes on top.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese has melted.
Stir-Fry Beef and Veggies
Stir-fry beef and veggies is a great option if you’re looking for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. This recipe requires only a few simple ingredients and can be easily customized with your favorite veggies and spices.
Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups of chopped vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, zucchini, or snow peas)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in the chopped vegetables and garlic, and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Pour over the beef and vegetables and toss to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and cook for an additional minute or until the sauce has thickened and the dish is heated through.
These delicious and easy ground beef one-pot meals are perfect for busy weeknights. They’re quick to make, filling, and require minimal clean-up. So next time you’re in a pinch, try one of these recipes, and your taste buds and tummy will thank you!
Thanks for Reading!
We hope that you enjoyed reading these 10 easy ground beef recipes for quick weeknight dinners! With simple ingredients and short prep times, these recipes are perfect for busy nights without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Remember to stock up on ground beef and try out these recipes whenever you’re in need of a quick, satisfying meal.
Don’t forget to visit our website for more delicious recipes and helpful cooking tips. We always strive to provide our readers with the best content possible, so feel free to leave comments and feedback. We appreciate your support and hope to see you back soon for more mouth-watering recipes and food-related articles. Happy cooking!
FAQ
Q: Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef in these recipes?
A: Absolutely! While these recipes were specifically created with ground beef in mind, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Q: Can I freeze any of these recipes for later?
A: Yes, most of these recipes can be frozen for later. Simply store in an airtight container and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Are these recipes kid-friendly?
A: Yes, these recipes are perfect for picky eaters and families with children. The ingredients are simple and familiar, making it easier to get everyone to enjoy them.
Q: Can I add vegetables to these recipes?
A: Of course! Feel free to add any vegetables of your choice to these recipes. It’s a great way to sneak in extra nutrients and add more flavor.
Q: How long will these recipes last in the refrigerator?
A: Most of these recipes will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
Q: Can I double or triple these recipes for meal prep?
A: Yes, these recipes can easily be doubled or tripled for meal prep. They’re perfect for busy weekdays when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.
Q: What sides would pair well with these recipes?
A: These recipes would pair well with a variety of sides, including rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, and salad.
Q: Can I substitute different spices or sauces in these recipes?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices and sauces to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Q: Are these recipes spicy?
A: These recipes are mild, but you can adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less chili powder or hot sauce.
Q: What type of ground beef should I use in these recipes?
A: We recommend using lean ground beef (90% lean) for best results.