Ground Beef Recipes to Save Busy Nights

Ground beef is a go-to ingredient when you need something quick, filling, and flexible. It cooks fast, works with a variety of flavors, and fits into countless types of meals. Whether it’s tacos, pasta, or a skillet dish, it’s a reliable option on busy nights.

These recipes are made with everyday ingredients and don’t require a lot of prep time. You can keep things simple or add your own twist depending on what you have in the fridge. They’re great for weeknight dinners when time is short but you still want something homemade.

From one-pan meals to freezer-friendly options, ground beef makes it easy to cook without the stress. These ideas help keep dinner on the table even when your schedule is packed. Quick, hearty, and budget-friendly—that’s what makes these meals worth trying.

Enchilada Meatballs

These meatballs bring bold, familiar flavors to the table with minimal effort. They’re baked until tender and then smothered in a rich, spiced sauce. A fun twist on a comfort food staple, perfect with rice or tortillas.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Meatballs

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

This one-pan dish balances savory ground beef with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. It’s a hearty, no-fuss option great for weeknights. You’ll love how quickly it all comes together.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Easy Salisbury Steak

A classic made simpler without losing what makes it great. These tender beef patties are cooked in a savory gravy and pair well with mashed potatoes or steamed veggies. Great for when you want something nostalgic without a long prep time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salisbury Steak

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

This creamy skillet keeps things lighter without skimping on flavor. It blends seasoned beef with cauliflower rice for a balanced, low-fuss meal. You won’t miss the carbs with this one.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Instant Pot Sloppy Joes

Quick, saucy, and full of flavor—these Sloppy Joes are made even easier in the Instant Pot. It’s a hands-off way to cook up a family favorite. Serve on buns or over rice for a change.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Sloppy Joes

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner

Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The mix of tender beef, rice, and veggies makes it a go-to for busy nights. It’s hearty, simple, and easy to customize.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner

Sloppy Joe Casserole

All the classic Sloppy Joe flavor, baked into a bubbly, layered casserole. It’s got just enough crunch from the topping and plenty of savory meatiness underneath. A good option when you want something filling without extra prep.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef

This casserole offers a tangy, savory blend that’s a little different from the usual. The sauerkraut cuts through the richness of the beef, creating a balanced bite. It’s an easy way to switch up your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef

Tater Tot Taco Casserole

A crowd-pleaser with layers of seasoned beef, cheese, and golden tater tots on top. It’s a fun mix of textures and flavors, great for both kids and adults. Perfect for busy nights or potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Taco Casserole

Air Fryer Empanadas

These are crispy outside, flavorful inside, and super convenient thanks to the air fryer. Great as a snack, appetizer, or quick dinner. They reheat well too—ideal for prepping ahead.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Empanadas

Taco Rice Skillet

This skillet meal comes together quickly with seasoned ground beef, rice, and a few pantry staples. It’s great for loading up with your favorite toppings. A simple way to keep dinner interesting.
Get the Recipe: Taco Rice Skillet

Ground Beef and Broccoli

Savory, saucy beef paired with crisp-tender broccoli makes for a fast and flavorful dish. It’s lighter than takeout and just as quick. Serve it over rice or noodles for a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Broccoli

Porcupine Meatballs on the Grill

These meatballs have rice mixed in for a unique texture and are cooked on the grill for extra flavor. A fun twist that’s perfect for warm weather or weekend meals. Great with grilled veggies or a light salad.
Get the Recipe: Porcupine Meatballs on the Grill

Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Skillet

Melty cheese, seasoned beef, and all the taco fixings, made easy in one pan. This is a flexible dish you can dress up or keep simple. Great for quick weeknight meals.

Get the Recipe: Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Skillet

Slow Cooker Mississippi Salisbury Steak

Set it and forget it—this version of Salisbury steak cooks low and slow until tender. The rich gravy and pepperoncini kick give it a unique flavor. It’s a comfort meal that doesn’t need much babysitting.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mississippi Salisbury Steak

Low Carb Lasagna with Ground Beef

All the lasagna goodness, minus the pasta. It’s layered, meaty, and still packed with flavor. A good pick if you’re looking for something cozy but lighter.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Lasagna with Ground Beef

Hamburger Potato Casserole

This baked dish mixes ground beef with sliced potatoes in a creamy sauce. It’s a classic, filling meal that’s easy to throw together. Works well as a main or even a hearty side.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Potato Casserole

Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Comforting and quick, this pasta dish is built around ground beef and a savory tomato base. Everything cooks in one pan, so cleanup’s easy too. Great for feeding a crowd or having leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Meatloaf Stuffed Peppers

A clever way to combine two favorites—meatloaf and stuffed peppers. These are hearty, flavorful, and look great on the plate. Ideal when you want something homey with a little twist.
Get the Recipe: Meatloaf Stuffed Peppers

Slow Cooker Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef

Full of warm spices and layered textures, this casserole cooks while you go about your day. It’s perfect for feeding a hungry household with minimal active time. Great with chips, tortillas, or just on its own.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef

Unstuffed Zucchini Casserole

All the elements of stuffed zucchini without the extra steps. This is a lighter, veggie-forward dish that still feels hearty. Great way to use up zucchini and keep things simple.
Get the Recipe: Unstuffed Zucchini Casserole