21 ground beef recipes for dinner

I have got some tasty ground beef recipes for you to enjoy!

Enjoy flooring beef recipes ranging from your favorite American consolation meals to delicious Mexican flavors that may make you puzzle over how there are so many enchilada, burrito, and taco recipes on the market you've yet to try.

There's an excellent motive. These are our readers' most popular dinner recipes. When you're brief on time, make this hearty meat sauce forward of time.

From hearty casseroles like Tater Tot Casserole and Beef Enchilada Casserole to flavorful soups like One Pot Lasagna Soup and BBQ Spaghetti, these ground beef recipes have something for everyone.

Made with minimal ingredients and easy instructions, they are perfect for busy families and meal prep.

Find new favorites packed with flavor and nutrition, such as Baked Burritos and Stuffed Cabbage Rolls.

Browse the best ground beef recipes on the web, which range from gluten-free options like Inside Out Egg Rolls to comforting classics like Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak and Baked Hamburgers.

Whether you're in the mood for something reasonably spicy like Beef Tacos or something comforting like Homemade Healthy Meat Sauce.

These 21-ground beef recipes have got you. Enjoy the versatility and deliciousness of ground beef!

If you've found inspiration here, happy cooking and enjoy your delicious ground beef creations!

Hearty Ground Beef Recipes for a Satisfying Dinner

21. Bierocks (Cabbage Buns)

A beloved German-American classic from the Great Plains — soft, pillowy yeast buns stuffed with a savoury filling of seasoned ground beef and tender cabbage, baked until deeply golden. Bierocks are hearty, portable, and completely satisfying as a family dinner or game-day snack. A wonderful addition to our best ground beef recipes.

Ingredients:

• Dough: 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast + ½ cup warm water + 1 cup warm milk + 3 tablespoons sugar + 1 teaspoon salt + ¼ cup vegetable oil + 3½–4 cups all-purpose flour — combine, knead 8 minutes, rise 1 hour until doubled
• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ head green cabbage, finely shredded (about 4 cups)
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional but wonderful)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Make the dough: dissolve yeast in warm water with 1 teaspoon of the sugar. Rest 10 minutes until foamy. Combine with warm milk, remaining sugar, salt, oil, and flour. Knead until smooth and elastic. Cover and rise 1 hour until doubled.
2. Make the filling: brown the ground beef with onion over medium-high heat. Add garlic. Drain fat. Add the shredded cabbage and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 10–12 minutes until the cabbage is wilted and all moisture has evaporated — a dry filling is essential or the buns will be soggy. Season generously. Cool completely. Stir in the cheddar if using.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F. Divide the dough into 12 equal balls. Flatten each into a 5-inch circle. Place 3 tablespoons of filling in the centre of each. Gather the edges, pinch firmly to seal, and place seam-side down on a greased baking sheet. Rest 20 minutes.
4. Brush with beaten egg. Bake for 20–25 minutes until deeply golden. Serve warm with ketchup or mustard.

20. Beef Tacos with Refried Beans

A completely satisfying Tex-Mex classic — seasoned ground beef and creamy refried black beans served in toasted taco shells and loaded with lettuce, tomato, cheese, and your favourite toppings. Made with homemade taco seasoning for a far superior flavour to any store-bought packet. A wonderful addition to our best Mexican recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 (15 oz) can refried black beans, warmed
• 8 crispy taco shells, toasted
• Homemade taco seasoning: 1 tablespoon chilli powder + 1 teaspoon cumin + 1 teaspoon smoked paprika + ½ teaspoon garlic powder + ½ teaspoon onion powder + ¼ teaspoon oregano + salt and pepper
• ⅓ cup water
• Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar, Greek yogurt or sour cream, salsa, lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up into fine crumbles. Drain excess fat thoroughly.
2. Add all taco seasoning spices to the beef and stir to coat. Add the water and stir. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the liquid absorbs and the seasoned beef is slightly saucy and very fragrant.
3. Warm the refried black beans in a small saucepan. Toast the taco shells in the oven at 350°F for 4–5 minutes until warm and crispy.
4. Spread a spoonful of warm refried beans in the bottom of each shell. Top with the seasoned beef and all desired toppings. Serve immediately with lime wedges alongside.

19. Mexican Picadillo

A wonderfully versatile and deeply flavourful Mexican ground beef dish — ground beef simmered with potatoes, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and chipotle peppers in a rich, aromatic sauce. Picadillo works equally well stuffed into tacos and burritos, served over rice, or eaten straight from the pan with warm tortillas. A wonderful addition to our best Mexican recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into small ½-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
• ½ cup beef broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro and lime, for serving

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef with onion and bell pepper over medium-high heat for 6 minutes. Add garlic, cumin, and oregano. Cook 1 minute. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the potato cubes, diced tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and beef broth. Stir to combine. Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a simmer. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are completely tender and have absorbed the flavours of the sauce.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve with warm tortillas, rice, or as a taco filling. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

18. Baked Beef Burritos

The ultimate make-ahead weeknight dinner — large flour tortillas stuffed with seasoned ground beef, black beans, cheese, and vegetables, folded tightly and baked until crispy on the outside and melted and flavourful inside. Easy to assemble in advance and completely satisfying. A wonderful addition to our best Mexican recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 1 cup salsa
• 2 cups Mexican blend cheese, shredded and divided
• 6 large burrito-size flour tortillas
• 1 cup enchilada sauce
• Sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Brown the ground beef with onion over medium-high heat. Add garlic and taco seasoning. Drain fat. Stir in the black beans, corn, and salsa. Simmer 5 minutes.
2. Warm the tortillas so they are pliable. Divide the beef filling and 1½ cups of cheese between the 6 tortillas. Roll each tightly, folding the sides in, into a burrito. Place seam-side down in a greased 9x13 baking dish.
3. Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over all the burritos. Scatter the remaining cheese over the top.
4. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden and the tortillas are slightly crispy. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro.

17. Healthy Tater Tot Casserole

A healthier take on the Midwestern classic that skips the condensed soup entirely — ground beef and mixed vegetables in a homemade roux-based beef stock sauce, topped with a golden layer of crispy tater tots. All the comfort with a far superior, cleaner flavour. A wonderful recipe from our best casserole recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs lean ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1½ cups beef stock
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Brown the ground beef with onion in a large oven-safe skillet. Add garlic. Drain excess fat. Push the beef to the side.
2. Add olive oil and flour to the pan. Cook the flour 1 minute, stirring. Gradually whisk in the beef stock until smooth. Add Worcestershire and Dijon mustard. Stir everything together and simmer until thickened, about 3 minutes. Add frozen vegetables and season generously.
3. Transfer to a greased 9x13 baking dish if not using an oven-safe skillet. Scatter the cheddar over the filling. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a tight single layer over the top.
4. Bake for 35–40 minutes until the tater tots are deeply golden and crispy. Serve immediately.

16. Keto Taco Salad

A hearty, colourful, and completely satisfying taco salad that is naturally low carb — seasoned ground beef with homemade taco seasoning served over crisp romaine with avocado, cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and a bold salsa dressing. A wonderful weeknight dinner from our best ground beef recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• Homemade taco seasoning: 1 tablespoon chilli powder + 1 teaspoon cumin + 1 teaspoon smoked paprika + ½ teaspoon garlic powder + salt and pepper
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 cup cheddar or Mexican blend cheese, shredded
• 1 jalapeño, sliced
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges
• Salsa and sour cream, for dressing

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking into fine crumbles. Drain fat. Add the taco seasoning and 3 tablespoons of water. Stir and simmer 3 minutes until the beef is deeply seasoned. Cool slightly.
2. Arrange the chopped romaine as the base of each bowl.
3. Top with the warm seasoned beef, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cheese, and jalapeño.
4. Drizzle salsa and sour cream over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately while the beef is still warm against the cold crisp lettuce.

15. Healthy Sloppy Joes (Whole30, Paleo, Gluten-Free)

A clean, wholesome, and genuinely delicious take on the classic sloppy joe — lean ground beef with fresh vegetables in a sweet-tangy sauce made with no added sugar. Whole30-compliant, paleo, and gluten-free without sacrificing any of the bold, satisfying flavour. Perfect for meal prep. A wonderful recipe from our best ground beef recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs lean ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (check for Whole30 compliance)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lettuce wraps or compliant buns, for serving

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef with onion and bell pepper over medium-high heat for 6 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire, apple cider vinegar, mustard powder, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Simmer over medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thick and deeply flavourful. The longer it simmers, the better the flavour.
4. Serve in large lettuce wraps for a fully Whole30-compliant meal, or in your preferred buns. Serve with coleslaw or a simple green salad alongside.

14. Healthy Meat Sauce with Olives

A lighter, healthier, and genuinely delicious Italian meat sauce — lean ground beef with jarred tomato sauce, hidden vegetables, and kalamata olives that add a deeply savoury, briny depth to the sauce. Perfect for meal prep, freezes beautifully, and child-approved. A wonderful addition to our best pasta recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 2 large carrots, finely grated
• 3 stalks celery, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar good quality marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil and parmesan, for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for 8 minutes until very soft. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute. The vegetables will dissolve into the sauce and add sweetness and nutrition.
2. Add the ground beef and brown thoroughly, breaking into very fine crumbles. Drain any excess fat. Add tomato paste and cook 2 minutes.
3. Pour in the marinara sauce. Add Italian seasoning and the chopped kalamata olives. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer over low heat for 20–30 minutes until thick and deeply flavourful. Serve over pasta, zucchini noodles, or polenta with fresh basil and grated parmesan.

13. Ground Beef Tacos (Stovetop or Instant Pot)

A classic, budget-friendly, and completely reliable ground beef taco recipe — perfectly seasoned beef cooked on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot for a delicious weeknight taco night. Kid-friendly, customisable, and ready in under 20 minutes. A wonderful addition to our best Mexican recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Taco seasoning: 1 tablespoon chilli powder + 1 teaspoon cumin + 1 teaspoon smoked paprika + ½ teaspoon garlic powder + ½ teaspoon oregano + salt and pepper
• ½ cup beef broth or water
• 8–10 hard or soft taco shells
• Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheddar, sour cream, salsa, lime, cilantro, jalapeños

Instructions:

1. Stovetop: Brown the beef with onion over medium-high heat. Add garlic. Drain fat. Add all taco seasonings and the broth. Simmer 5 minutes until saucy and fragrant. Instant Pot: Use the Sauté function to brown the beef and onion. Drain fat. Add garlic, seasonings, and broth. Seal and cook on HIGH pressure for 5 minutes. Quick release.
2. Taste the beef and adjust seasoning — add more chilli powder for heat or cumin for earthiness.
3. Warm the taco shells in the oven at 350°F for 4 minutes or wrap soft tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave 30 seconds.
4. Fill the taco shells with the seasoned beef and all desired toppings. Serve immediately with lime wedges alongside.

12. Beef Goulash (American One-Pot)

The great American comfort food one-pot — ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni noodles simmered together in a rich, savoury sauce until the pasta is perfectly cooked and has absorbed all the flavour. Simple, hearty, deeply satisfying, and ready in 30 minutes. A wonderful addition to our best ground beef recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef with onion and bell pepper in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add garlic. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
3. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the pot. Stir, reduce to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the sauce.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning generously. The goulash should be thick, rich, and saucy. Top with shredded cheddar if desired and serve immediately.

11. BBQ Spaghetti

A uniquely Southern and completely extraordinary pasta dish — ground beef in a rich, smoky BBQ-tomato sauce tossed with spaghetti for a bold, barbecue-inspired meal that is completely unlike any other pasta you have made. Deeply flavourful, easy to make, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at potlucks and family dinners. A wonderful addition to our best pasta recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti, cooked al dente
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup smoky BBQ sauce
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley and parmesan, for serving

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef with onion and bell pepper over medium-high heat. Add garlic and smoked paprika. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the BBQ sauce, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Simmer over medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes until the sauce is thick and deeply smoky-sweet. Taste and add more BBQ sauce if desired for a bolder flavour.
4. Toss the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce and mix until every strand is coated. Serve topped with fresh parsley and parmesan.

10. Easy Beef Enchilada Soup

All the bold flavours of beef enchiladas in a hearty, satisfying soup — ground beef with beans, corn, and Mexican spices simmered in a rich enchilada-spiced broth. Ready in 30 minutes and best served with warm cornbread. A wonderful addition to our best Mexican recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon chilli powder + 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, diced avocado

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef with onion over medium-high heat. Add garlic, chilli powder, and cumin. Cook 1 minute. Drain fat.
2. Add the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and beef broth. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15–20 minutes to allow all the flavours to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning — the soup should be bold, smoky, and satisfying.
4. Serve in deep bowls topped generously with shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Serve cornbread alongside.

9. Salisbury Steak

A timeless American diner classic — tender, savoury ground beef patties pan-seared until browned then slowly simmered in a rich, deeply flavourful mushroom and onion gravy. Served over creamy mashed potatoes for one of the most satisfying comfort food dinners imaginable. A wonderful addition to our best ground beef recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs ground beef
• ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, divided
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Mushroom gravy: 8 oz cremini mushrooms (sliced) + 1 large onion (thinly sliced) + 2 tablespoons butter + 2 tablespoons flour + 2 cups beef broth + 1 tablespoon Worcestershire + salt and pepper
• Creamy mashed potatoes, for serving

Instructions:

1. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently. Form into 4–5 oval patties about ¾ inch thick.
2. Sear the patties in oil over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside. Drain most of the fat.
3. Make the gravy: melt butter in the same pan. Sauté mushrooms and onion for 8 minutes until caramelised. Add flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in beef broth. Add remaining Worcestershire. Simmer until thickened. Season generously.
4. Return the patties to the gravy. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes until cooked through and completely infused with the gravy flavour. Serve over creamy mashed potatoes.

8. American Goulash (One-Pot)

The American goulash that generations of families have made and loved — ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni cooked together in a single pot in a rich, deeply seasoned sauce. Easy, economical, and genuinely comforting. The one-pot cooking method means the pasta absorbs all the extraordinary flavour of the sauce. A wonderful recipe from our best ground beef recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (14 oz) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef with onion and bell pepper in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add garlic. Drain fat.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil. Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir, reduce to a medium simmer, and cook uncovered for 15–18 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and the sauce is thick.
4. Remove from heat. The goulash will continue to thicken as it sits. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley and grated parmesan.

7. Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas

A magnificent, hearty, and deeply satisfying beef enchilada casserole built with corn tortillas — layers of seasoned ground beef, red enchilada sauce, black beans, and melted cheese between corn tortillas, baked until bubbling and completely irresistible. A wonderful addition to our best Mexican recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained
• 1 (19 oz) can red enchilada sauce
• 12 corn tortillas
• 3 cups Mexican blend cheese, shredded
• Sour cream, guacamole, and cilantro, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Brown the beef with onion over medium-high heat. Add garlic and taco seasoning. Drain fat. Stir in black beans and ½ cup of the enchilada sauce.
2. Spread ¼ cup enchilada sauce on the bottom of a greased 9x13 baking dish. Layer 4 corn tortillas, overlapping slightly. Add half the beef filling, ⅓ of the remaining sauce, and 1 cup of cheese. Repeat the layers twice, finishing with tortillas, sauce, and the remaining cheese.
3. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake 15 more minutes until the cheese is deeply golden and the sauce is bubbling.
4. Rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro.

6. Gluten-Free Inside-Out Egg Rolls

A brilliant, fast, and completely satisfying Asian-inspired one-skillet dinner — all the bold, savoury, umami-rich flavours of a classic egg roll without the wrapper, made in a single skillet in 25 minutes. Ground beef with shredded cabbage, carrots, ginger, garlic, toasted sesame oil, and soy sauce. Naturally gluten-free and absolutely delicious. A wonderful recipe from our best ground beef recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch fresh ginger, grated
• 3 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sriracha
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Sliced green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking into crumbles. Drain excess fat. Push the beef to the side.
2. Add vegetable oil to the empty side of the pan. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger and sauté for 2 minutes. Add the shredded cabbage and carrots and toss everything together. Cook for 5 minutes until the cabbage is wilted and slightly caramelised.
3. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sriracha. Toss the entire skillet to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Cook for 2 more minutes.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges. Serve immediately over rice or cauliflower rice.

5. 7-Can Taco Soup

The ultimate busy weeknight soup — ground beef and seven canned goods combined in one pot for a hearty, boldly flavoured taco soup that is ready in 20 minutes with minimal effort and maximum reward. Completely customisable with your favourite toppings. A wonderful recipe from our best Mexican recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 packet ranch seasoning
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained
• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, undrained
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (14 oz) can beef broth
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, diced avocado, fresh cilantro

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef with onion in a large pot over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the taco seasoning and ranch seasoning packets. Stir to coat the beef.
3. Add all seven canned ingredients — black beans, pinto beans, corn (with liquid), Rotel (with liquid), diced tomatoes (with liquid), beef broth, and tomato sauce. Stir everything together.
4. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes to allow all the flavours to meld. Serve in deep bowls topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, and avocado.

4. Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

A deeply comforting and timeless classic — tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savoury mixture of ground beef, rice, and aromatics, then simmered in a rich homemade tomato sauce until completely meltingly tender. Best served with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the extraordinary sauce. A wonderful recipe from our best casserole recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head green cabbage
• 1 lb ground beef (or half beef, half pork)
• ½ cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 1 large onion, grated (divided)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Tomato sauce: 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes + 1 tablespoon sugar + 1 tablespoon Worcestershire + salt and pepper — stir together

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Core the cabbage and carefully submerge — remove leaves one by one as they loosen, about 12 large leaves. Trim the thick central rib from each leaf with a knife.
2. Combine ground beef, uncooked rice, half the grated onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently. Place 3 tablespoons of filling on each cabbage leaf and roll up tightly, tucking the sides in. Place seam-side down in a heavy pot or baking dish.
3. Pour the tomato sauce over and around the cabbage rolls. The rolls should be nestled in the sauce. Cover tightly with a lid or foil.
4. Cook on the stovetop over very low heat for 1.5 hours, or bake at 350°F for 1.5 hours, until the rice is cooked through and the cabbage is completely tender. Serve with the tomato sauce spooned over generously.

3. Baked Hamburgers

Juicy, perfectly cooked hamburgers made entirely in the oven — ground beef patties seasoned with simple pantry spices and baked to a consistent, beautiful result with no flipping, no smoke, and no stovetop mess. Just as delicious as grilled burgers and far more convenient. A wonderful addition to our best ground beef recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciest results)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and coarse pepper, to taste
• 4 slices cheese of choice
• 4 burger buns, lightly toasted
• Toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayo

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with a wire rack — this allows air to circulate and prevents the patties from sitting in their own juices.
2. Combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper. Mix gently — do not overwork the meat or the burgers will be dense. Divide into 4 equal portions and form into ¾-inch thick patties slightly wider than the buns.
3. Place on the wire rack. Bake for 12–15 minutes for medium (internal temperature 160°F). In the last 2 minutes, lay a slice of cheese on each patty and return to the oven until melted.
4. Toast the buns cut-side down in a dry skillet for 1–2 minutes. Build the burgers with all desired toppings and serve immediately.

2. One-Pot Lasagna Soup with Cottage Cheese

All the beloved flavours of lasagna in a cosy, hearty soup — ground beef, broken lasagna noodles, and spinach in a richly seasoned tomato broth, topped with pillowy whipped cottage cheese in place of ricotta. One pot, protein-rich, and completely satisfying. A wonderful addition to our best pasta recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 8 lasagna noodles, broken into rough pieces
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cottage cheese topping: 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese + ¼ cup parmesan + 1 tablespoon fresh basil — blend until smooth

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef with onion in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Drain fat. Add Italian seasoning and basil.
2. Add crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil. Add the broken lasagna noodle pieces and cook for 10–12 minutes until the noodles are al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook 2 minutes until wilted. Season generously with salt and pepper. Blend the cottage cheese, parmesan, and fresh basil until smooth and creamy.
4. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each bowl with a generous dollop of the whipped cottage cheese mixture, which will slowly melt into the soup. Serve immediately.

1. Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

The most effortless and deeply satisfying version of a comfort food classic — seasoned ground beef patties slow-cooked all day in a rich, savoury mushroom and onion gravy until they are incredibly tender and have absorbed the extraordinary flavour of the sauce. Served over creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate dinner. A wonderful recipe from our best slow cooker recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs ground beef
• 1 packet onion soup mix, divided
• ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Gravy: 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup + 1½ cups beef broth + 8 oz sliced cremini mushrooms + 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce + half the onion soup mix — whisk together
• Creamy mashed potatoes, for serving

Instructions:

1. Combine ground beef, half the onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper. Mix gently. Form into 4–5 oval patties. Optional but recommended: sear the patties in a skillet over high heat for 2 minutes per side for deeper colour and flavour before slow cooking.
2. Whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sliced mushrooms, Worcestershire, and remaining onion soup mix in the slow cooker insert.
3. Place the patties in the slow cooker in a single layer, nestling them into the gravy. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until the patties are tender and the gravy is rich.
4. Serve the Salisbury steak patties over creamy mashed potatoes with generous amounts of the mushroom gravy spooned over the top.

FAQs

What is the best ground beef fat percentage for different recipes?

The fat percentage in ground beef dramatically affects the flavour and texture of the finished dish. For burgers and Salisbury steak patties, 80/20 (80% lean, 20% fat) is the gold standard — the higher fat content keeps the patties incredibly juicy and flavourful, and the fat renders out during cooking. For slow cooker recipes, casseroles, and soups, 85/15 is a good balance that provides flavour without excessive grease — always drain thoroughly after browning. For lean, health-conscious recipes like sloppy joes or healthy meat sauce, 90/10 or 93/7 lean beef works well. Ground beef labelled "extra lean" at 96% lean can work but tends to be dry and requires careful cooking — adding a little olive oil or Worcestershire sauce helps compensate. Regardless of fat percentage, browning the meat first and draining the rendered fat before adding other ingredients is always recommended for the best final texture.

How do I add flavour to ground beef?

Ground beef is a blank canvas that responds beautifully to seasoning. The most important step is to season generously with salt and pepper both before and after browning — salt applied before cooking penetrates the meat as it cooks, while additional seasoning after browning allows you to adjust to taste. Worcestershire sauce is the single most versatile enhancer for ground beef — even a small amount adds deep umami and complexity that is hard to place but impossible to miss. Soy sauce works similarly. Garlic and onion are foundational — sautéing them with the beef rather than adding them raw creates a sweeter, more mellow flavour. Tomato paste, added to the pan and cooked for 1–2 minutes before adding liquid, adds richness and body. Fresh herbs stirred in at the end of cooking — parsley, basil, or cilantro — add brightness that lifts the finished dish. Acid in the form of vinegar or citrus at the very end of cooking also brightens and balances savoury beef dishes significantly.

Can I freeze cooked ground beef meals?

The majority of ground beef recipes freeze exceptionally well, making them ideal for batch cooking and meal prep. Most of the recipes in this roundup — including the goulash, BBQ spaghetti, enchilada soup, taco soup, meat sauce, and sloppy joes — freeze beautifully for up to 3 months with no loss of quality. The key to successful freezing is cooling the dish completely before packaging, using airtight freezer containers or heavy-duty zip-lock bags with as much air removed as possible, and labelling with the date and contents. Casseroles with pasta or rice freeze well but may need a splash of broth when reheating as the starches absorb liquid during freezing. Bierocks and stuffed cabbage rolls freeze particularly well — freeze them on a baking sheet until solid then transfer to bags, and reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes. Thaw all frozen ground beef meals overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

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