Ground beef is a staple in many kitchens around the world—and for good reason.
It’s affordable, versatile, and can be transformed into a wide variety of dishes, from comforting classics to bold international flavors.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, ground beef makes it easy to create satisfying and delicious meals in no time.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best things to make with ground beef, from timeless favorites to creative new ideas that are sure to impress.
1. Classic Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless dish that’s both comforting and hearty.
Made with ground beef sautéed with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and a blend of Italian herbs, this sauce is slow-cooked to develop deep flavors.
It’s perfect for family dinners and can be served over any type of pasta, though spaghetti remains a favorite.
You can customize it with mushrooms, bell peppers, or a splash of red wine for extra depth. Freeze leftovers in portion-sized containers for easy future meals.
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2. Homemade Beef Tacos
Beef tacos are a fun, fast, and flavorful way to use ground beef.
Brown the beef and mix in a simple homemade taco seasoning or a pre-made spice mix.
Serve the meat in either soft flour tortillas or crunchy corn shells and top with chopped lettuce, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, and sour cream.
It’s a great build-your-own dinner option, making it ideal for picky eaters and family taco nights.
You can also add beans, corn, or jalapeños for extra flavor and variety.
3. Juicy Beef Burgers
Ground beef burgers are an all-time classic and incredibly satisfying when made from scratch.
Simply season the beef with salt, pepper, and optional extras like garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce, shape into patties, and grill or pan-fry to your preferred doneness.
You can get creative with toppings—think caramelized onions, crispy bacon, cheese, or even a fried egg.
Serve on toasted buns with fresh lettuce and tomato for the ultimate homemade burger experience.
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4. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and nutritious way to enjoy ground beef.
Cut the tops off vibrant bell peppers and fill them with a savory mix of browned ground beef, cooked rice, tomato sauce, onions, and melted cheese.
Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbly and golden.
This dish is perfect for make-ahead meals, and you can vary the ingredients based on what you have on hand—try quinoa instead of rice or add black beans for a Southwestern twist.
5. Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
Quesadillas made with ground beef and cheese are quick to whip up and always a hit.
Brown the beef with taco seasoning and onions, then layer it with shredded cheese between two tortillas.
Cook on a skillet until the tortillas are golden and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted.
Slice into wedges and serve with sides like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. It’s a perfect choice for lunch, dinner, or even a party appetizer.
6. Ground Beef Casserole
Casseroles are ideal for feeding a crowd or making dinner in advance, and ground beef fits right into this category.
Mix it with cooked pasta, marinara sauce, vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, and top with a generous layer of cheese.
Bake until bubbling and golden brown. It’s a one-pan meal that’s comforting, filling, and very adaptable to your family’s preferences.
You can even make a low-carb version using cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
Also Check: Zucchini Bread Recipe Ideas
7. Beef Chili
Beef chili is a warming, flavorful dish that can be as simple or complex as you like.
Sauté ground beef with onions and garlic, then simmer with tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a hint of cocoa or coffee for added richness.
Cook it low and slow for a deep, developed flavor. Chili is great for meal prepping and only gets better the next day.
Serve with cornbread or over rice, and don’t forget the toppings—cheese, sour cream, and scallions.
8. Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are a nostalgic favorite that turns ground beef into a tangy, savory sandwich filling.
Brown the beef and simmer it in a mixture of ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a little brown sugar for sweetness.
Spoon the mixture onto toasted hamburger buns and enjoy the slightly messy but delicious result.
It’s a fantastic meal for kids and adults alike and can be paired with potato wedges or a fresh green salad.
9. Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A beef and veggie stir-fry using ground beef is a quick and healthy meal option packed with flavor.
Cook the beef with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil, then toss in chopped vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots.
Stir-fry everything until the veggies are tender-crisp and serve over steamed rice, noodles, or a low-carb base like cauliflower rice.
It’s a great way to clean out the fridge and still make something wholesome and tasty.
10. Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s Pie (or Cottage Pie, when made with beef) is a comforting layered dish with seasoned ground beef on the bottom, mixed with vegetables like peas and carrots, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
Bake until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling underneath.
This dish is satisfying and freezer-friendly, making it perfect for busy weeks.
You can enhance the flavor by adding a splash of beef broth or red wine to the meat filling.
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FAQs About Things to Make with Ground Beef
Q: Can I freeze ground beef dishes?
A: Yes! Most ground beef recipes freeze well. Let the dish cool completely, store in airtight containers or freezer bags, and label with the date.
Q: How do I know when ground beef is fully cooked?
A: Ground beef should be browned and no longer pink. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Q: What are some healthy things to make with ground beef?
A: Try dishes like ground beef lettuce wraps, stuffed zucchini boats, or beef and veggie stir-fries for lighter, low-carb options.
Q: Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken in these recipes?
A: Absolutely! While flavor and texture may vary slightly, ground turkey or chicken can be used in most recipes calling for ground beef.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to things to make with ground beef, the possibilities are endless.
From quick weekday meals to hearty family dinners, ground beef can be the hero ingredient in a wide range of delicious dishes.
Whether you stick with traditional favorites or get adventurous in the kitchen, there’s always something tasty you can cook up with a simple pack of ground beef.
