Ground Beef Dinners That Don’t Take All Evening

Busy weeknights call for dinners that are quick, easy, and actually taste good. Ground beef is a go-to for a reason it’s affordable, cooks fast, and works in all kinds of meals.

Whether you’re throwing together tacos, skillet meals, or a hearty pasta, these ground beef recipes come together with minimal fuss and a short ingredient list. You won’t be stuck at the stove all evening.

Perfect for weeknight routines or when time’s tight, these meals keep things simple without sacrificing flavor. You’ll get dinner on the table fast and everyone fed without a hassle.

Slow Cooker Maid Rite

This easy slow cooker meal brings that classic loose meat sandwich flavor without much effort. It’s rich, a little tangy, and perfect on soft buns with pickles and mustard. Great for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for weekday lunches.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Maid Rite

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

A one-pan meal that balances hearty ground beef with naturally sweet, tender potatoes. It’s quick to make, filling, and works great as a wholesome dinner option. Add a sprinkle of your favorite herbs and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Taco Pasta Salad

This cold pasta salad is full of Tex-Mex flavors and comes together in no time. Ground beef, cheese, and crunchy veggies keep things interesting with every bite. Ideal for potlucks, picnics, or a twist on your usual weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Air Fryer Firecracker Meatballs

These meatballs are juicy, just the right amount of spicy, and super easy thanks to the air fryer. The sticky glaze clings perfectly, adding a little heat without overpowering. Great on rice or as a fun party snack.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Firecracker Meatballs

Enchilada Meatballs

All the familiar flavors of enchiladas, but rolled into bite-sized meatballs. Toss them in red sauce and serve over rice or in tortillas. They make a flavorful main dish or fun twist on traditional taco night.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Meatballs

Low Carb Lasagna with Ground Beef

Layers of rich meat sauce and cheesy goodness, all without the noodles. This version skips the carbs but keeps the comfort. It’s a hearty, filling option that still feels like a classic lasagna night.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Lasagna with Ground Beef

Taco Rice Skillet

Simple and quick, this skillet meal brings together seasoned beef, fluffy rice, and melty cheese. You can customize it with your favorite toppings—think sour cream, salsa, or avocado. Perfect when you want something easy but flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Taco Rice Skillet

Easy Keto Mexican Casserole

This low-carb casserole brings bold flavors with ground beef, spices, and cheese baked into one warm dish. It’s quick to prep and reheats well, making it perfect for meal planning. Serve with fresh toppings for added crunch.
Get the Recipe: Easy Keto Mexican Casserole

Instant Pot Hawaiian Meatballs

Sweet and savory meet in this fast pressure cooker recipe. Pineapple chunks and tangy sauce coat tender meatballs for a tropical-inspired dish. Serve over rice or noodles to soak up every drop.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Hawaiian Meatballs

Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef

A rustic blend of sauerkraut and ground beef that hits a cozy, old-fashioned note. The slight tang from the kraut balances out the richness. Add a bit of melted cheese on top if you’re feeling indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef

Tater Tot Taco Casserole

This one’s a crowd-pleaser—crispy tots on top of a taco-spiced beef and cheese layer. It’s a comfort food mashup that’s easy to throw together. Great for busy nights or when you’re feeding hungry kids.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Taco Casserole

Keto Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef

Zucchini takes the spotlight here, layered with savory beef and gooey cheese. It’s low-carb but still hearty enough to feel like a complete meal. You can bake it ahead and reheat slices all week long.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef

Sloppy Joe Casserole

All the saucy flavor of a classic Sloppy Joe, baked under a soft, buttery crust or cheesy topping. It’s simple, nostalgic, and always a hit at the table. Great for busy evenings or freezer meals.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Hoisin Beef

Fast and flavorful, this ground beef stir fry packs a punch with hoisin sauce and crisp veggies. It’s a great option when you’re short on time but still want something hot and homemade. Serve it over rice or wrap in lettuce for something lighter.
Get the Recipe: Hoisin Beef

Instant Pot Sloppy Joes

Get that messy-good Sloppy Joe flavor in record time using the pressure cooker. The meat turns out extra juicy, and it’s easy to double the batch for leftovers. Serve on toasted buns or over baked potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Sloppy Joes

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy, rich, and low on carbs, this skillet dinner comes together in a pinch. The cauliflower rice soaks up the sauce without being heavy. It’s a solid weeknight go-to that feels comforting but light.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Unstuffed Zucchini Casserole

Think stuffed zucchini—but way easier. Everything bakes together in one dish, cutting down on prep but keeping the same great flavors. It’s cheesy, savory, and pairs well with a crisp side salad.
Get the Recipe: Unstuffed Zucchini Casserole

Ground Beef Stir Fry With Celery: Quick And Easy

This stir fry is fresh and crunchy with a simple sauce that coats the beef just right. Celery adds a nice texture and a bit of bite. It’s great over rice or as a filling for lettuce wraps.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Stir Fry With Celery: Quick And Easy

Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

All the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak mixed with cheesy tortellini, slow cooked until everything melts together. It’s cozy and filling without a lot of effort. Serve with crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

This is your classic ground beef casserole—creamy, cheesy, and ultra kid-friendly. It’s made with pantry staples and bakes up bubbly and golden. Great for leftovers or freezing ahead.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Hamburger Potato Casserole

Layers of sliced potatoes, seasoned beef, and melted cheese make this a simple but hearty bake. It’s a dependable option for when you want something comforting with basic ingredients. Just add a green veggie on the side and dinner’s done.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Potato Casserole