Simple Ground Beef Recipes for Busy Nights and Big Appetites

Ground beef is one of those ingredients that always earns a spot in my fridge because it’s versatile, quick to cook, and budget-friendly. Whether I’m in the mood for something hearty or just need to throw together a simple dinner, it always comes through with endless possibilities.

Over time I’ve built up a set of recipes that I find myself reaching for again and again. They’re flavorful, easy to prep on a busy weeknight, and don’t require anything fancy to pull together. These are the kinds of meals that keep everyone at the table happy without much fuss.

From family favorites to meals that reheat well for leftovers, these recipes have become staples in my kitchen. They’re simple enough for everyday cooking but still pack enough variety that I never feel stuck in a rut.

Slow Cooker Maid Rites

These loose meat sandwiches are easy to make in the slow cooker, giving the beef time to develop rich flavor. The texture is different from a burger but just as satisfying. Serve on soft buns for a fuss-free meal that works well for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Maid Rites

Taco Stuffed Peppers

Colorful peppers are filled with a savory beef mixture, making this a great option when you want something lighter than tortillas. The combination of seasoned meat, melted cheese, and tender peppers is both hearty and fresh. It’s a fun way to change up taco night with less mess.
Get the Recipe: Taco Stuffed Peppers

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

This one-pan dish blends ground beef with creamy sauce and cauliflower rice for a simple yet filling meal. It’s perfect for those who want a comforting dinner without heavy carbs. Plus it comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole

Think of this as a cozy version of takeout-style beef and broccoli baked into a casserole. It’s creamy, cheesy, and has just the right balance of protein and veggies. Perfect for feeding the whole family with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole

Instant Pot Hawaiian Meatballs

Sweet and savory meet in these tender meatballs cooked with pineapple and a tangy sauce. The Instant Pot speeds things up while locking in flavor. They make a great appetizer or serve beautifully over rice for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Hawaiian Meatballs

25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger

Juicy beef, crispy bacon, and creamy avocado come together in this quick burger recipe. It’s a fresh twist on a classic combo that feels both indulgent and easy. Ready in under half an hour, it’s a lifesaver on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: 25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger

Tater Tot Taco Casserole

This dish layers seasoned ground beef, cheese, and crispy tater tots for a crowd-pleasing dinner. It’s comforting, easy to assemble, and always a hit with kids and adults alike. Great for potlucks or cozy weekends at home.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Taco Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Skillet

All the best taco flavors cooked up in a single skillet with plenty of melted cheese. It’s fast, flexible, and perfect for scooping with chips or wrapping in tortillas. Less cleanup, more flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Skillet

Cowboy Sliders

Mini burgers packed with bold toppings make these sliders stand out. They’re easy to make ahead and work perfectly for parties or game nights. Small in size but big on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Sliders

Ginger Ground Beef Stir

This stir fry combines beef with ginger and fresh veggies for a quick, flavorful meal. It’s light, aromatic, and comes together in less than 20 minutes. Serve it with rice or noodles for an easy weeknight option.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Ground Beef Stir

Unstuffed Zucchini Casserole

All the flavors of stuffed zucchini without the extra work of hollowing them out. Ground beef, tomato sauce, and cheese bake together with zucchini for a simple layered dish. Comforting and vegetable-packed at the same time.
Get the Recipe: Unstuffed Zucchini Casserole

Cheeseburger Skillet

This recipe brings all the flavors of a cheeseburger into a cheesy, hearty skillet meal. Pasta or potatoes give it extra bulk, making it filling and family-friendly. It’s everything you love about a burger, minus the bun.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Skillet

Taco Pasta Salad

A cool and refreshing way to enjoy taco-inspired flavors. Ground beef, pasta, veggies, and a creamy dressing come together for a great side dish or light main. It’s perfect for cookouts and potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Korean Ground Beef

Sweet and savory beef is cooked quickly with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. It’s served best over rice with a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds. Fast, flavorful, and budget-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Korean Ground Beef

Enchilada Meatballs

Meatballs simmered in enchilada sauce bring a fun twist to traditional flavors. They’re cheesy, saucy, and versatile enough to serve with rice or tortillas. A simple way to combine two favorites in one dish.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Meatballs

Ground Beef and Broccoli

This quick skillet meal is inspired by classic takeout but made simpler at home. Tender broccoli and savory beef come together in a garlicky sauce. It’s quick, healthy, and pairs well with rice or noodles.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Broccoli

Taco Rice Skillet

All the taco fixings get tossed together with rice in one pan for a fuss-free dinner. It’s hearty, flavorful, and customizable with your favorite toppings. A great way to stretch a pound of beef into a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Taco Rice Skillet

Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

A budget-friendly recipe that makes the most of simple ingredients. Beef and cabbage cook quickly with garlic and soy sauce for a comforting meal. It’s easy, filling, and great for meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

This recipe mixes the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with cheesy pasta, all made in the slow cooker. It’s creamy, hearty, and perfect for a hands-off dinner. Ideal for feeding a hungry crowd.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner

Beef and rice cook together in one pan for an easy, no-stress meal. Add in a few pantry staples and you’ve got dinner ready in under 30 minutes. It’s simple, filling, and customizable with different seasonings.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner

Hamburger Potato Casserole

Layers of beef, potatoes, and creamy sauce make this a hearty comfort dish. It’s baked until golden and bubbly, perfect for family dinners. A classic recipe that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Potato Casserole