Ground Beef Dinners That Make Weeknights Easy

Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used to make quick and hearty meals. Whether you need something for a busy weeknight or a dish to feed a crowd, it’s a great option that pairs well with a variety of flavors. From classic comfort foods to creative new dishes, there are plenty of ways to cook with it.

From casseroles and skillet meals to burgers and pasta dishes, ground beef is the star of many easy dinners. It cooks quickly, absorbs seasonings well, and works in everything from tacos to meatballs. Whether you prefer something cheesy, spicy, or packed with veggies, there’s a recipe for every craving.

These ground beef recipes are simple to make and full of flavor, making dinner stress-free. Whether you’re cooking for one or a whole family, these dishes offer something for everyone. Try a new favorite tonight and enjoy a meal that’s both easy and delicious!

Easy Salisbury Steak

This classic dish brings together tender ground beef patties smothered in a rich, savory gravy. It’s simple to make and pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles. The homemade gravy, packed with onions and mushrooms, takes it up a notch. A comforting meal that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salisbury Steak

Low Carb Lasagna with Ground Beef

All the flavors of traditional lasagna without the extra carbs. Layers of seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese come together beautifully. Instead of pasta, thin slices of zucchini or another low-carb option take its place. A great way to enjoy a hearty meal without the heaviness.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Lasagna with Ground Beef

Instant Pot Sloppy Joes

A quicker take on the classic, these Sloppy Joes come together easily in the Instant Pot. The sauce thickens beautifully, coating the ground beef in a rich, slightly sweet, and tangy mixture. Perfect for piling onto toasted buns or even serving over rice. A family favorite made even simpler.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Sloppy Joes

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

This one-pan meal combines hearty ground beef with naturally sweet, caramelized sweet potatoes. A little spice and seasoning bring everything together, creating a great balance of flavors. It’s an easy meal prep option and works well for busy nights. A wholesome, delicious dish without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Sloppy Joe Casserole

All the best parts of a Sloppy Joe packed into a baked casserole. The ground beef mixture is layered with cheese and a biscuit or cornbread topping for a fun twist. It’s a great way to serve Sloppy Joes without the mess of sandwiches. A hit with both kids and adults.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Air Fryer Empanadas

Crispy, golden, and packed with seasoned ground beef, these empanadas are easy to make in the air fryer. The filling stays juicy, while the outside gets the perfect crunch. They’re great as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. Serve them with salsa or a dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Empanadas

Tater Tot Taco Casserole

This fun mashup of tacos and tater tots bakes into a cheesy, crispy-topped casserole. The seasoned beef and melty cheese make a great base, while the tots add a little crunch. It’s easy to customize with toppings like sour cream, salsa, or jalapeños. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Taco Casserole

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

A rich, creamy beef mixture served over cauliflower rice keeps things simple yet hearty. The flavors come together with a smooth, cheesy sauce that pairs perfectly with the beef. It’s a great way to enjoy comfort food while keeping it light. Perfect for a quick, one-pan meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Taco Rice Skillet

All the best taco flavors packed into one easy skillet meal. Ground beef, rice, and plenty of seasonings cook together, soaking up all the flavor. Top it off with cheese, avocado, or fresh salsa for a customizable dish. Great for weeknights when you need something fast and filling.
Get the Recipe: Taco Rice Skillet

Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Skillet

This dish brings together seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and classic taco ingredients in one pan. You can scoop it onto tortillas, serve it over rice, or eat it straight from the skillet. The cheese creates a gooey, savory layer that ties everything together. A simple way to enjoy taco night without much prep.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Skillet

Porcupine Meatballs on the Grill

These meatballs get their name from the rice inside them, which puffs up as they cook. Grilling them adds a smoky, charred flavor that pairs perfectly with a rich tomato-based sauce. They stay tender and juicy while developing a nice crust. A fun and flavorful twist on traditional meatballs.
Get the Recipe: Porcupine Meatballs on the Grill

Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef

A hearty mix of ground beef, tangy sauerkraut, and a creamy sauce baked into a warm, comforting dish. The bold flavors balance well with a cheesy topping or a layer of mashed potatoes. It’s a great option for anyone who enjoys a little bite from the kraut. Perfect for a cozy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef

Slow Cooker Mississippi Salisbury Steak

This version of Salisbury steak slow cooks in a rich sauce with butter, ranch seasoning, and pepperoncini peppers. The beef patties stay tender while soaking up all the bold flavors. Serve it over mashed potatoes or rice for a melt-in-your-mouth meal. A set-it-and-forget-it dish that’s packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mississippi Salisbury Steak

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner

A quick and easy one-pan meal where beef, rice, and seasonings cook together for a hearty dish. The rice absorbs all the savory flavors, making each bite better than the last. Add in veggies or cheese to mix things up. A great go-to for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner

Enchilada Meatballs

These meatballs are packed with Mexican-inspired seasonings and smothered in enchilada sauce. They’re great on their own, served over rice, or stuffed into tortillas. The sauce keeps them juicy, while a sprinkle of cheese on top adds the perfect finishing touch. A fun way to switch up enchilada night.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Meatballs

Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce all cook together in one skillet for easy cleanup. The noodles soak up all the flavor, and a layer of cheese on top melts into a creamy finish. Perfect for when you want a homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. A comforting dish that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Hamburger Potato Casserole

Thinly sliced potatoes layered with seasoned ground beef and a creamy sauce bake into a warm, filling meal. The top gets golden and crispy while the inside stays rich and soft. A sprinkle of cheese or breadcrumbs makes it even better. A simple and satisfying dish for any time of year.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Potato Casserole

Ground Beef and Broccoli

This stir-fry brings together ground beef and crisp-tender broccoli in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. It’s quick to make and pairs well with rice or noodles. A splash of soy sauce and garlic enhances the flavors, keeping things bold but simple. A great way to add some greens to your dinner.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Broccoli

Meatloaf Stuffed Peppers

Sweet bell peppers filled with a meatloaf-style mixture make for a hearty and colorful meal. The peppers soften as they bake, absorbing all the flavors from the beef and seasonings. A little cheese or sauce on top adds extra richness. A fun twist on two classic comfort foods.
Get the Recipe: Meatloaf Stuffed Peppers

Slow Cooker Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef

This slow-cooked casserole layers ground beef with beans, cheese, and plenty of Mexican spices. Everything melts together into a hearty, scoopable dish that’s great with chips, tortillas, or rice. Set it up in the morning and come back to a warm, flavorful meal. A stress-free way to enjoy a Tex-Mex favorite.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef

Unstuffed Zucchini Casserole

All the flavors of stuffed zucchini but baked in an easy casserole form. Ground beef, tomatoes, cheese, and zucchini come together for a dish that’s both fresh and hearty. The zucchini softens just enough while keeping a bit of bite. A great way to use up summer squash while keeping dinner simple.
Get the Recipe: Unstuffed Zucchini Casserole