Think ground beef is boring? Think again. These 15 easy recipes are here to prove that ground beef isn’t just for your usual boring dishes. Whether you’re in a time crunch or just want to switch up the usual, these dishes will make your weeknight dinners a lot more interesting. Not just that, but you won’t need a cooking degree to make them happen.
Cheeseburger Casserole
You might think a casserole would be bland, but this one brings all the flavors of a great burger, just in a much easier form. Cheeseburger Casserole combines everything you love about a cheeseburger without needing to fire up the grill. It’s hearty, comforting, and doesn’t require much effort to pull together, making it a great option for busy weeknights. You won’t be able to stop yourself from going back for seconds with this flavor-packed dish.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Casserole
Smoked Meatballs
Smoked Meatballs may sound like they require a lot of skill, but they’re surprisingly easy to make while delivering a bold punch of flavor. They take the idea of classic meatballs and give them a smoky twist, making them perfect for dinner or even meal prep. Despite the simplicity, the depth of flavor will keep you guessing how something so straightforward can taste so good. Whether served as a main course or a snack, they never fail to impress.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Meatballs
Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
If you’re looking for a snack or meal with some crunch and flavor, Air Fryer Beef Empanadas are a go-to. They offer a crispy exterior while keeping the inside rich and flavorful, making them ideal for when you want something easy and quick. The air fryer cuts down on time and mess, but don’t think that shortcuts the flavor. Perfect for busy nights or entertaining, they always deliver a rewarding bite without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
Shepherd’s Pie Bites
These bite-sized versions of a classic dish prove that smaller can be better. Shepherd’s Pie Bites take everything you love about the traditional pie and pack it into a more portable, easy-to-eat form. They’re perfect for casual dinners or even as appetizers, offering all the comfort you expect without the hassle. Don’t let their size fool you—each bite is packed with hearty flavors that make them hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Shepherd’s Pie Bites
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef
Whether you’re looking for something quick to serve on its own or as a filling for tacos or burritos, Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef is a versatile and flavorful option. It’s a simple recipe, but it brings a level of flavor that makes it stand out from more complex dishes. Perfect for a weeknight when you want something fast without compromising taste, this dish easily fits into any meal. You’ll find yourself coming back to it whenever you need an easy, reliable option.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef
Diner Style Salisbury Steak
Diner Style Salisbury Steak might make you think of old-school diners, but this version is anything but outdated. It brings together the nostalgia of a classic comfort dish with an easy, modern twist that makes it perfect for today’s kitchens. The flavors are rich and hearty, but the preparation is simple, making it a great choice for busy families or solo dinners. You’ll feel like you’re getting a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak
Tacos Dorados
When you need something fast, flavorful, and crispy, Tacos Dorados are the way to go. These crunchy delights come together quickly and pack more flavor than you might expect from such a simple dish. They’re great for busy nights when you need something easy, but don’t want to sacrifice on taste. Each bite brings a fulfilling crunch that pairs perfectly with the boldness inside.
Get the Recipe: Tacos Dorados
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak
Turning the classic Philly cheesesteak into an easier, quicker dish, Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak is a must-try. Using ground beef instead of the traditional steak simplifies the process, but the flavors are still just as bold. It’s perfect for when you want a hearty sandwich without the hassle of cooking a full cheesesteak. Whether for a quick lunch or dinner, it’s a rewarding option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Despite its luxurious name, Million Dollar Spaghetti is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. It’s one of those dishes that looks like it took hours to prepare but can actually be pulled together with minimal effort. The layers of flavors in this dish are impressive, making it ideal for when you want something that feels a little extra special without too much work. You’ll probably be adding this to your regular meal rotation once you’ve tried it.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
There’s nothing complicated about Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich, but the flavor is anything but simple. It’s the kind of sandwich that makes you wonder why you haven’t been making it all along, with just the right balance of seasonings to keep things interesting. Easy to prepare and great for feeding a crowd, this sandwich is perfect when you want something quick that still feels like a treat. It’s a classic that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
Ground Beef Fried Rice
Mixing the simplicity of fried rice with seasoned ground beef, Ground Beef Fried Rice brings together two favorites in one dish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for nights when you want a no-fuss meal that still feels like a complete dinner. The bold flavors from the beef combined with the familiar comfort of fried rice make this a go-to recipe. Whether you’re making it as a main dish or a side, it’s a winner every time.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Fried Rice
Big Mac Tacos
Fast food meets taco night in Big Mac Tacos, bringing together two favorites in a unique, simple-to-make dish. It’s a fun, fast recipe that’s great for when you’re craving something familiar but want to switch it up a bit. The ground beef and classic toppings come together perfectly in a taco shell, making this one of those meals that’s both fun and flavorful. It’s ideal for nights when you want to keep things easy, but still crave something exciting.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Tacos
Pastitsio
A pasta dish that packs more flavor than you’d expect from something so simple, Pastitsio brings together hearty layers of beef and noodles. It’s a great option for when you want a comforting meal without needing to spend hours in the kitchen. The layers give it an extra touch, but it’s still simple enough for a weeknight dinner. This dish proves you don’t need to overcomplicate things to have something delicious.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio
Beef And Barley Soup
Comfort in a bowl, Beef and Barley Soup delivers a rich, hearty flavor without the heaviness of more complicated soups. It’s a simple recipe that still manages to feel like a complete meal, perfect for chilly nights or whenever you’re craving something warm and filling. With minimal ingredients, this soup comes together easily but doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy but is easy enough to make on a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Beef And Barley Soup
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs might sound like an old-fashioned dish, but they’re more flavorful than you’d expect. With the slow cooker doing most of the work, these meatballs come out tender and packed with flavor, making them a great option for busy nights. They offer a nostalgic twist on traditional meatballs without the hassle of constant attention in the kitchen. If you’re looking for something simple and hearty that you can set and forget, this one’s for you.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
