Weeknight Winners That Start with Ground Beef

A pound of ground beef is one of the most useful ingredients to have on hand, especially for busy weeknights. It cooks quickly, works in all kinds of meals, and doesn’t require much prep. With just a few pantry staples, it can turn into something hearty and filling.

There’s a lot you can do with it—tacos, pasta dishes, casseroles, soups, and more. Ground beef takes on flavor easily and pairs well with spices, sauces, and vegetables. Whether you want something classic or want to try a twist on a favorite, it’s a solid starting point.

These meals are all about keeping things simple without giving up on flavor. They’re easy to make, don’t take much time, and work for both small households and family dinners. All you need is a pound of ground beef and a plan.

Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

This recipe brings together tender tortellini and the classic cheesesteak combo in a hands-off slow cooker meal. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor from peppers, onions, and beef. Perfect for busy days when you want dinner to cook itself while you do other things.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

Air Fryer Firecracker Meatballs

These meatballs pack a punch with their sweet-heat glaze and come out perfectly crispy thanks to the air fryer. They’re great as a main dish or party appetizer. Easy to whip up and ready in no time, they’re a fun twist on a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Firecracker Meatballs

Instant Pot Hawaiian Meatballs

With juicy pineapple and a sticky, tangy sauce, these meatballs offer a sweet-savory combo that’s quick to prepare. The pressure cooker cuts down the cooking time without skimping on flavor. Great for weeknights or meal prepping.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Hawaiian Meatballs

Ground Beef Stir Fry With Celery: Quick And Easy

This stir fry is a smart way to use simple ingredients like celery and ground beef for a fast, fuss-free meal. It’s light, crunchy, and full of flavor, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Serve it with rice or noodles to round it out.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Stir Fry With Celery: Quick And Easy

Sloppy Joe Casserole

A layered take on a nostalgic classic, this casserole is saucy, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing. It has everything you love about sloppy joes, baked into a comforting one-dish meal. Great for feeding a hungry group without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef

This recipe combines bold sauerkraut with savory ground beef for a dish that’s big on flavor. It’s an easy option for those who like a little tang with their hearty meals. Simple ingredients and minimal prep make it a weekday winner.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef

Hamburger Potato Casserole

Layers of sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and creamy sauce come together in this cozy dish. It’s the kind of meal that feels like home and works well for leftovers too. Great for cold nights or when you want something filling without much work.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Potato Casserole

Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

This skillet meal is as easy as it gets—just a handful of ingredients and one pan. Cabbage adds a fresh crunch while ground beef keeps it hearty. It’s budget-friendly, quick, and surprisingly flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Taco Pasta Salad

Combining taco flavors with pasta salad makes this dish perfect for potlucks or a fun twist on taco night. Ground beef, pasta, cheese, and fresh veggies make it both filling and refreshing. It’s a solid option for make-ahead meals too.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Honey Habanero Tacos

Sweet honey balances out the heat from habanero in these bold, flavorful tacos. They’re not for the faint of heart but worth the spice. A great pick when you’re in the mood for something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Honey Habanero Tacos

Enchilada Meatballs

These meatballs are simmered in enchilada sauce for a rich, bold flavor that pairs well with rice or tortillas. They’re easy to prepare and can double as a main or a party bite. A simple way to switch up your regular meatball routine.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Meatballs

Cantonese Ground beef And Eggs (Under 30 Minutes)

This quick dish combines savory ground beef with softly scrambled eggs in a comforting, protein-packed meal. It’s simple, fast, and great served over rice. A solid go-to for those evenings when you need something done fast.
Get the Recipe: Cantonese Ground beef And Eggs (Under 30 Minutes)

Tater Tot Taco Casserole

A fun, family-friendly bake, this casserole layers taco-seasoned beef, cheese, and crispy tater tots. It’s a crowd favorite that’s easy to throw together and even easier to serve. Great for weeknights or game day.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Taco Casserole

Mexican Ground Beef Skillet

Everything cooks in one pan—ground beef, spices, veggies, and beans—for a flavorful meal that’s ready in no time. It’s perfect on its own or spooned over rice or chips. A great pick for fast dinners with big flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Ground Beef Skillet

Taco Rice Skillet

This skillet meal brings together all your taco night favorites with rice for a quick and hearty dinner. It’s flexible too—easy to adjust with what’s in your fridge. Fast, flavorful, and filling.
Get the Recipe: Taco Rice Skillet

Keto Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef

Low-carb and full of flavor, this casserole uses zucchini and beef to create a meal that’s light but delicious. It’s simple to prepare and reheats well for leftovers. A smart option for anyone looking to cut back on carbs without missing out.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef

Instant Pot Sloppy Joes

These sloppy joes are fast-tracked with the Instant Pot, locking in flavor in a fraction of the time. They’re saucy, savory, and perfect for sandwich night. Great for feeding a group without dirtying a pile of dishes.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Sloppy Joes

Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

This one-pan wonder combines ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce in a quick stovetop meal. It’s comforting and simple, with minimal cleanup. Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Easy Smothered Burrito

Stuffed, rolled, and covered in sauce, this burrito is hearty and filling. It’s an easy way to enjoy your favorite burrito flavors baked in one dish. Pairs great with a side of rice or salad.
Get the Recipe: Easy Smothered Burrito

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

This skillet pairs the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with seasoned ground beef for a flavorful, balanced dish. It’s colorful, wholesome, and comes together in one pan. A nice alternative to traditional meat-and-potato meals.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Unstuffed Zucchini Casserole

All the flavor of stuffed zucchini without the extra steps—this casserole keeps it easy. Ground beef, zucchini, cheese, and sauce come together in a cozy, baked dish. It’s a simple way to use garden veggies without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Unstuffed Zucchini Casserole