Ground beef is the unsung hero of quick, satisfying meals, and we’ve rounded up 20 delicious recipes that prove just how versatile and speedy it can be. Whether you’re craving comfort food on a chilly evening or need a fuss-free dinner after a busy day, these 30-minute wonders are sure to delight. Dive in and discover your next weeknight favorite!
Quick Beef Tacos
Yum! These Quick Beef Tacos are your weeknight savior—juicy, flavorful, and ready in a flash.
Ingredients
- For the beef: 1 lb ground beef, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp cumin
- For the toppings: 8 small corn tortillas, 1 cup shredded lettuce, 1/2 cup diced tomatoes, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5 minutes until no longer pink.
- Season beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cumin. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes to blend flavors. Tip: For extra flavor, let the beef sit for a minute after seasoning before stirring.
- Warm tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side. Tip: Keep them warm by wrapping in a clean kitchen towel.
- Assemble tacos by dividing beef among tortillas, then topping with lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, cheese, and sour cream. Tip: Layer cheese directly on the hot beef to melt slightly.
Crunchy, creamy, and packed with bold flavors, these tacos are a hit. Try serving them with a side of lime wedges for a zesty twist.
Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
Packed with flavor and ready in minutes, these beef and cheese quesadillas are your next obsession. **Layer, sizzle, devour**—it’s that simple.
Ingredients
- For the filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- For assembly:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Drain excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning, onions, and bell peppers. Cook for another 3 minutes until vegetables soften.
- Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and wipe it clean with a paper towel.
- Brush one side of each tortilla lightly with vegetable oil. Place one tortilla, oiled side down, in the skillet.
- Sprinkle half of the cheeses evenly over the tortilla, then spread half of the beef mixture on top. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses and top with another tortilla, oiled side up.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown. Carefully flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Cut into wedges and serve immediately.
Juicy beef meets gooey cheese in every bite, with a crispy exterior that’s irresistible. **Try dipping in salsa or sour cream for an extra kick.**
Simple Beef Stroganoff
Whip up this creamy, dreamy Simple Beef Stroganoff in no time—perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty without the hassle.
Ingredients
- For the beef: 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the sauce: 1 tbsp butter, 1 small onion diced, 2 cloves garlic minced, 8 oz mushrooms sliced, 1 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 cup beef broth, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 cup sour cream
- For serving: 8 oz egg noodles cooked, chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the sliced sirloin with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft, about 2 minutes.
- Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and brown, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms, stir to coat.
- Gradually whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, bring to a simmer until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, stir in sour cream until smooth.
- Return the beef to the skillet, heat through for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve over cooked egg noodles, garnished with parsley.
Buttery noodles soak up the rich, tangy sauce, while tender beef strips add a satisfying chew. Try topping with extra sour cream and a sprinkle of paprika for a colorful twist.
Easy Beef Chili
Just when you thought chili couldn’t get any easier, this beef chili recipe proves you wrong. **Bold flavors**, **minimal effort**, and **maximum comfort**—this is your weeknight hero.
Ingredients
- For the chili base:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- For the spices and sauce:
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- For serving:
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add 1 lb ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no pink remains, about 5 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot to ensure even browning.
- Stir in diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until onions are translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Mix in 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, and 1/2 tsp paprika. Toast the spices for 30 seconds to unlock their flavors.
- Pour in 1 can tomato sauce, 1 can diced tomatoes, and 1 cup beef broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavors.
- Season with salt if needed. Tip: Taste as you go to adjust seasoning perfectly.
Rich and hearty, this chili boasts a **thick texture** and **smoky depth**. Serve it loaded with cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions for a **colorful finish**.
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Kick off your weeknight with this Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry that’s faster than takeout and twice as tasty. **Sear** juicy strips of beef, **toss** with crisp broccoli, and **drench** in a glossy, garlicky sauce that clings to every bite.
Ingredients
- For the beef: 1 lb flank steak, sliced thin against the grain, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp cornstarch
- For the sauce: 1/2 cup beef broth, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 2 garlic cloves, minced, 1 tsp ginger, grated
- For the stir fry: 2 cups broccoli florets, 2 tbsp vegetable oil, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- **Marinate the beef:** In a bowl, mix sliced beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. Let sit for 15 minutes. Tip: Slicing against the grain ensures tender beef.
- **Prep the sauce:** Whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a small bowl. Set aside.
- **Stir fry beef:** Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add beef in a single layer; cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until browned. Flip and cook 1 more minute. Remove beef.
- **Cook broccoli:** In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp oil. Add broccoli and red pepper flakes; stir fry for 3 minutes until bright green. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to keep veggies crisp.
- **Combine everything:** Return beef to skillet. Pour sauce over; stir fry for 2 minutes until sauce thickens and coats everything. Tip: Sauce should bubble and reduce slightly.
Crunchy broccoli and velvety beef soak up the rich, savory-sweet sauce—serve over steamed rice or noodles for a meal that’s **unapologetically** satisfying.
Classic Beef Burgers
Sizzle up your summer with these unbeatable Classic Beef Burgers. Juicy, flavorful, and ready in minutes—they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- For the patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- For assembling:
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
- Lettuce, tomato, and onion for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat (375°F).
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Grill or cook patties for 4 minutes on the first side, then flip.
- Cook for another 3 minutes, then add a slice of cheddar cheese to each patty.
- Cover and cook for 1 more minute, or until cheese melts and patties reach 160°F internally.
- Brush the cut sides of the buns with melted butter and toast for 1 minute on the grill or skillet.
- Assemble burgers with patties, lettuce, tomato, and onion on the toasted buns.
Yield burgers with a perfect char outside and juicy inside. Serve with crispy sweet potato fries or a tangy slaw for a meal that’s anything but basic.
Beef and Mushroom Skillet
Make your weeknights epic with this Beef and Mushroom Skillet—juicy, savory, and ready in a flash. No fuss, all flavor.
Ingredients
- For the beef: 1 lb ground beef, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper
- For the mushrooms: 8 oz sliced mushrooms, 1 tbsp butter
- For the sauce: 1/2 cup beef broth, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder
- For serving: Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add ground beef, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until no pink remains.
- Tip: Drain excess fat for a leaner dish, but keep a bit for flavor.
- Push beef to one side. Add butter and mushrooms to the other side. Sauté for 4 minutes until golden.
- Tip: Don’t overcrowd the mushrooms—they’ll steam instead of brown.
- Mix beef and mushrooms together. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
- Simmer for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Tip: If the sauce reduces too much, add a splash more broth.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
The beef stays tender, the mushrooms add an earthy depth, and the sauce ties it all together. Try it over mashed potatoes or tucked into a warm tortilla for a twist.
Spicy Beef Nachos
Whip up a storm with these Spicy Beef Nachos that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Layer crispy chips, fiery beef, and melty cheese for a snack that slaps.
Ingredients
- For the beef:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- For the nachos:
- 1 bag (10 oz) tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Season beef with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Cook until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat for a cleaner taste.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Sprinkle cooked beef evenly over chips, then top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes, until cheese is fully melted. Tip: Watch closely to prevent chips from burning.
- Remove from oven and immediately top with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped cilantro. Tip: Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Vibrant and loaded, these nachos boast a perfect crunch with a kick. Serve them straight from the tray for a fun, shareable meal that’s as bold as your snack game.
Beef and Potato Hash
Alright, let’s dive straight into this hearty, no-fuss Beef and Potato Hash that’s perfect for any meal. Assemble your ingredients and get ready to transform simple staples into a crispy, savory masterpiece.
Ingredients
- For the hash:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups diced potatoes (1/2-inch cubes)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (350°F).
- Add 1 lb ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until no pink remains, about 5 minutes.
- Tip: Drain excess fat for a crispier hash.
- Add 2 cups diced potatoes, 1/2 cup diced onion, and 1/4 cup diced bell pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Season with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder. Mix well.
- Press the mixture flat in the skillet. Cook undisturbed for 5 minutes to let the bottom crisp up.
- Tip: Resist stirring too often for maximum crispiness.
- Flip sections of the hash with a spatula. Cook for another 5 minutes until the other side is golden.
- Tip: For extra crunch, broil on high for 2 minutes before serving.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes to set.
Vibrant with crispy edges and tender centers, this hash is a textural dream. Serve it topped with a fried egg or alongside avocado slices for a fresh twist.
Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake
Get ready to dive fork-first into the ultimate comfort food mashup. This Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake layers rich flavors and gooey cheese for a dish that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients
- For the pasta: 8 oz elbow macaroni, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt
- For the beef: 1 lb ground beef, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper
- For the sauce: 2 cups marinara sauce, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- For the topping: 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni, olive oil, and salt. Cook for 8 minutes, then drain.
- While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning into the beef. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine the cooked pasta and beef sauce in the prepared baking dish. Mix well.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top. Add red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
Velvety cheese meets hearty beef in every bite, with a slight crunch from the baked top. Serve with a side of garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of sauce.
Beef and Bean Burritos
Alright, let’s dive straight into these Beef and Bean Burritos—packed with flavor, ready in minutes, and guaranteed to satisfy those cravings.
Ingredients
- For the filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- For assembling:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until no pink remains, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in black beans, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Cook for another 2 minutes to blend flavors.
- Warm tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side to make them pliable.
- Divide the beef and bean mixture evenly among the tortillas, placing it in the center of each.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the filling, then top with sour cream and cilantro.
- Fold the sides of the tortillas inward, then roll tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling.
- Return the burritos to the skillet, seam side down, and cook for 2 minutes per side to crisp the tortilla.
Mmm, these burritos are a textural dream—crispy outside, creamy and hearty inside. Serve them with a side of salsa or guacamole for an extra kick, or slice them in half to show off those gorgeous layers.
Savory Beef Sliders
Craving something juicy, cheesy, and downright irresistible? These Savory Beef Sliders are your ticket to flavor town, packed with bold tastes and ready in a flash.
Ingredients
- For the sliders: 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup finely chopped onion, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 12 slider buns
- For the cheese sauce: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 tbsp butter
- For garnish: 1/4 cup pickles, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F to toast the buns later.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until just combined. Tip: Overmixing can make the beef tough.
- Shape the mixture into 12 small patties, slightly larger than the buns as they’ll shrink.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook patties for 3 minutes per side for medium doneness. Tip: Press down lightly with a spatula for even cooking.
- While patties cook, melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add heavy cream and cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth. Tip: Keep the heat low to prevent the sauce from separating.
- Place the bottom halves of the buns on a baking sheet, top with a patty, a spoonful of cheese sauce, and a pickle slice. Cover with the top bun.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 5 minutes to melt the cheese and toast the buns.
Kick these sliders up a notch by serving them with a side of spicy mayo or extra pickles. The melty cheese sauce and juicy beef create a mouthwatering combo that’s perfect for game day or any day.
Beef and Rice Casserole
Craving comfort food that’s easy to whip up? This beef and rice casserole is your weeknight hero—loaded with flavor, minimal cleanup, and maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients
- For the beef layer:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- For the rice layer:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- For the topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat for a lighter dish.
- In a bowl, mix cooked rice, beef broth, onions, and bell peppers. Tip: Use day-old rice for better texture.
- Layer the rice mixture in a greased casserole dish, then top with the cooked beef.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the beef. Tip: For extra crunch, toast the breadcrumbs before sprinkling.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Velvety cheese meets hearty beef and fluffy rice in every bite. Serve it straight from the dish for a family-style meal, or plate it up with a crisp salad for contrast.
Quick Beef Enchiladas
Transform your dinner routine with these Quick Beef Enchiladas—packed with flavor, ready in a flash, and guaranteed to satisfy.
Ingredients
- For the filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
- For the sauce:
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- For assembling:
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic powder, cumin, and salt. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
- Pour 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese. Roll tightly and place seam side down in the dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas. Top with the rest of the cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Enjoy the melty cheese and tender beef wrapped in soft tortillas, all smothered in a rich sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a lively gathering.
Beef and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
Yum! These Beef and Spinach Lasagna Rolls are your weeknight hero—packed with flavor, easy to assemble, and totally Instagram-worthy.
Ingredients
- For the filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- For the rolls:
- 8 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir until well combined. Tip: Let the mixture cool slightly for easier handling.
- Lay out the cooked lasagna noodles on a clean surface. Divide the beef mixture evenly among the noodles, spreading it along the length of each.
- Roll up each noodle tightly and place seam side down in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the rolls and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Tip: For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Tip: Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to set the filling.
Absolutely divine! The rolls are creamy inside with a crispy cheese top—perfect for slicing into pinwheels or serving whole with a side of garlic bread.
Beef and Cornbread Casserole
Overload your taste buds with this beef and cornbread casserole—comfort food that’s got crunch, cream, and everything in between.
Ingredients
- For the beef layer:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
- For the cornbread topping:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef, salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in corn and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt for the cornbread topping.
- In another bowl, mix milk, melted butter, and egg. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Spread the beef mixture in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour cornbread batter over the top, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Golden and glorious, this casserole pairs a juicy beef base with a sweet, crumbly cornbread top. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a side of crisp green salad for a meal that’s anything but ordinary.
Easy Beef Meatballs
Sizzle up your weeknight dinner with these effortless beef meatballs that pack a punch of flavor without the fuss. Perfect over pasta, tucked into subs, or as a standalone snack, they’re a game-changer.
Ingredients
- For the meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- For the sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—overmixing leads to tough meatballs.
- Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch balls. Pro tip: Wet your hands to prevent sticking.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, about 2 minutes per side, for a golden crust.
- Transfer meatballs to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, ensuring they’re cooked through.
- In the same skillet, add marinara sauce and water, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add baked meatballs to the sauce, gently tossing to coat. Simmer together for another 5 minutes.
These meatballs are juicy inside with a slightly crispy exterior, soaking up the rich sauce beautifully. Serve them over creamy polenta or with a side of garlic bread for a comforting meal.
Beef and Zucchini Skillet
Dig into this Beef and Zucchini Skillet—your weeknight savior with minimal prep and maximum flavor. **Bold** spices and fresh veggies come together in one pan for a no-fuss meal that’s ready in a flash.
Ingredients
- For the beef: 1 lb ground beef, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper
- For the veggies: 2 medium zucchinis (diced), 1/2 cup diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves
- For the sauce: 1/2 cup beef broth, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (350°F).
- Add ground beef, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it into crumbles, until no pink remains. Tip: Drain excess fat for a lighter dish.
- Push beef to one side. Add zucchini, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until veggies soften. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Mix beef and veggies together. Pour in beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly. Tip: The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
Serve this skillet over a bed of fluffy rice or with crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce. The zucchini adds a fresh crunch, while the beef brings hearty richness—perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner.
Beef and Tomato Macaroni
Zesty and bold, this Beef and Tomato Macaroni **transforms** your dinner game in under 30 minutes. **Load** your fork with hearty beef, tangy tomatoes, and al dente macaroni for a bite that’s **unapologetically** delicious.
Ingredients
- For the beef:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- For the sauce:
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried basil
- For the macaroni:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- **Heat** olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (350°F).
- **Add** ground beef, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. **Cook** for 5-7 minutes until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula.
- **Tip:** Drain excess fat for a leaner dish.
- **Stir** in tomato sauce, garlic powder, and dried basil. **Simmer** for 10 minutes on low heat.
- **Tip:** For a richer flavor, let the sauce simmer uncovered.
- **Boil** water in a separate pot. **Add** macaroni and salt. **Cook** for 8 minutes until al dente.
- **Drain** macaroni and **toss** it into the beef and tomato sauce. **Mix** well to combine.
- **Tip:** Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
This dish **delivers** a perfect balance of creamy and tangy, with the macaroni **soaking** up all the savory flavors. **Serve** it with a sprinkle of fresh basil or a side of garlic bread for an extra kick.
Beef and Avocado Salad
Transform your lunch game with this Beef and Avocado Salad—quick, fresh, and packed with flavor. Perfect for meal prep or a speedy dinner.
Ingredients
- For the beef:
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- For the salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- For the dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat a grill or skillet to medium-high heat (400°F).
- Rub the flank steak with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness. Tip: Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- While the steak rests, toss the mixed greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, and salt for the dressing.
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Tip: Cutting against the grain ensures tender bites.
- Add the steak to the salad, drizzle with dressing, and toss gently to combine. Tip: For extra crunch, add a handful of toasted nuts or seeds.
Serve this salad immediately for the best texture—creamy avocado, juicy steak, and crisp greens. Try it wrapped in a warm tortilla for a hearty lunch twist.
Conclusion
Just like that, you’ve got 20 mouthwatering ground beef recipes that promise deliciousness in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty without the hassle. We’d love to hear which recipes become your go-tos—drop a comment below. And if you found this roundup helpful, why not share the love? Pin it on Pinterest to keep these easy recipes at your fingertips!
