After a long day, nothing beats the comfort of a hearty, home-cooked meal that’s both easy to whip up and satisfying. That’s why we’ve rounded up 18 delicious ground beef recipes perfect for those busy weeknights. From savory tacos to cozy casseroles, these dishes are sure to please the whole family. Dive in and discover your next go-to dinner!
Easy Ground Beef Tacos

Make taco night a breeze with these easy ground beef tacos—quick, flavorful, and totally customizable.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- a couple of cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- a splash of olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 8 taco shells
- your favorite toppings (think shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream)
Instructions
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Crumble in the ground beef, cooking until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Drain any excess fat for a leaner taco filling.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef, then pour in the water. Stir well to combine.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Tip: If it gets too thick, add a little more water to loosen it up.
- While the beef simmers, warm the taco shells according to the package instructions. Tip: For extra crispy shells, pop them in the oven for a few minutes.
- Fill each shell with the beef mixture, then top with your favorite toppings.
Whip these up for a meal that’s packed with flavor and texture—crispy shells, juicy beef, and fresh toppings make every bite a delight. Try serving with a side of spicy salsa for an extra kick.
Quick Beef and Cheese Quesadillas

Everyone’s got those nights when only a cheesy, beefy quesadilla will do. **Whip up** these quick fixes in under 15 minutes—your future self will thank you.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 lb of ground beef
- a couple of flour tortillas
- a splash of olive oil
- 1 tbsp of taco seasoning
- a handful of diced onions
Instructions
- **Heat** a splash of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions and sauté until they’re just soft, about 2 minutes.
- **Add** the ground beef to the pan. Break it up with a spatula and cook until no pink remains, roughly 5 minutes. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir well.
- **Lay** a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle half with cheese, then spoon the beef mixture on top. Fold the tortilla over.
- **Heat** another splash of olive oil in the pan. Cook the quesadilla for 2 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. Flip carefully to keep the filling inside.
- **Repeat** with the remaining tortillas and filling. Let them cool for a minute before cutting—this keeps the cheese from oozing out.
Ultimate comfort in every bite: crispy outside, melty cheese, and savory beef. **Serve** with a side of sour cream or guac for that extra kick.
Simple Beef Stroganoff

Slice through the dinner dilemma with this Simple Beef Stroganoff—creamy, hearty, and on your table in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb of beef sirloin, sliced thin
- A couple of tbsp of olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- A splash of beef broth
- 1 cup of sour cream
- A handful of mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tbsp of Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, just enough to season
- A bunch of egg noodles, cooked
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef slices, searing until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to get a perfect sear.
- Remove beef and set aside. In the same skillet, toss in onions and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Throw in mushrooms, cooking until they’re golden, another 5 minutes. Tip: Mushrooms release water—let it evaporate for better flavor.
- Pour in a splash of beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Stir in sour cream and Dijon mustard, mixing until smooth. Tip: Keep the heat low to prevent curdling.
- Return the beef to the skillet, warming through for about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot over a bed of cooked egg noodles.
Rich and velvety, this stroganoff clings to every noodle, offering a bite that’s both tender and tangy. Try topping with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Easy Homemade Beef Burgers

Let’s ditch the drive-thru and craft juicy, flavor-packed beef burgers right in your kitchen. No fancy skills needed—just bold flavors and simple steps.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for the best juiciness)
- 1 egg (to bind it all together)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for that perfect texture)
- A splash of Worcestershire sauce (hello, umami!)
- A couple of garlic cloves, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
- 1 tsp salt (season like you mean it)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (for a little kick)
- 4 burger buns (toasted, because soggy buns are a no-go)
- Your favorite toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion—go wild)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Tip: Don’t overmix, or your burgers will be tough.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape into patties. Tip: Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent bulging during cooking.
- Heat a grill or skillet to medium-high (about 375°F). Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side for medium. Tip: Only flip once to keep them juicy.
- Toast the buns on the grill or in a toaster for about 1 minute until golden.
- Assemble your burgers with your favorite toppings and serve immediately.
Perfectly juicy with a crispy edge, these burgers are a flavor bomb waiting to explode. Try serving them with sweet potato fries for a next-level meal.
Quick Ground Beef Chili

Buckle up for a flavor-packed ride with this Quick Ground Beef Chili that’s as easy as it is delicious. Perfect for those nights when you’re craving something hearty but don’t have hours to spare.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- A splash of olive oil
- A couple of dashes of salt
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Toss in the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no pink remains, roughly 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and a couple of dashes of salt, mixing well to coat the beef.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, and beef broth, giving everything a good stir.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Tip: For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered. For more liquid, keep the lid on.
- Tip: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or spices if needed halfway through simmering.
- Tip: If you like a bit of heat, add a diced jalapeño with the onions and garlic.
Rich and hearty, this chili is a bowl of comfort with the perfect balance of spices. Serve it topped with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Simple Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Make your weeknight dinners a breeze with this Simple Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry—quick, flavorful, and downright addictive.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- a splash of soy sauce
- a couple of garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- a drizzle of honey
- a pinch of red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the steak slices in a single layer—don’t crowd the pan! Sear for 2 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Toss in broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3 minutes until bright green but still crisp.
- Push broccoli to the side, add minced garlic and grated ginger to the center. Sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk together soy sauce, honey, red pepper flakes, beef broth, and cornstarch in a small bowl. Pour over the broccoli.
- Return the beef to the skillet, tossing everything to coat. Simmer for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Tip: For extra tender beef, marinate slices in a bit of soy sauce and cornstarch for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Tip: Always preheat your skillet—it’s the secret to that perfect sear.
- Tip: Fresh ginger makes all the difference; keep a knob in your freezer for easy grating.
Who knew simplicity could taste this good? The beef stays juicy, the broccoli crisp-tender, and that sauce? Absolutely slurp-worthy. Try it over a heap of steamed rice or noodles for the ultimate comfort bowl.
Easy Beef and Potato Skillet

Kickstart your weeknight dinner with this no-fuss, one-pan wonder that’s all about bold flavors and minimal cleanup. Perfect for those ‘I need dinner now’ moments.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (the leaner, the better for less grease)
- 2 cups diced potatoes (keep ‘em small for quick cooking)
- A splash of olive oil (about 2 tbsp)
- A couple of garlic cloves, minced (because garlic is life)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for that kick)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (low-sodium works great)
- A handful of shredded cheddar (melty goodness)
- Salt and pepper (season as you go)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Tip: Cast iron works best for that perfect sear.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no pink remains, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Toss in the diced potatoes and minced garlic. Stir to combine. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; give those potatoes space to crisp up.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Pour in beef broth, then cover and simmer for 10 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Uncover, sprinkle shredded cheddar on top, and let it melt for about 2 minutes. Tip: Broil for a minute if you like your cheese bubbly and golden.
This dish is all about the contrast—tender beef, crispy potatoes, and gooey cheese. Try serving it straight from the skillet with a side of pickled jalapeños for an extra zing.
Quick Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

Unlock the secret to a no-fuss dinner that’s packed with flavor and ready in a flash. This Quick Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is your weeknight hero, turning pantry staples into a meal that feels anything but basic.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- A splash of olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- A couple of garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- A pinch of salt and pepper
- A handful of grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Break the beef into small pieces with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat for a lighter sauce.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld. Tip: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.
- Drain the spaghetti and toss it with the meat sauce. Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Dig into a bowl where the spaghetti is perfectly coated in a rich, meaty sauce, with just the right amount of garlic and herbs shining through. Try topping with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Simple Beef Enchiladas

Craving something cheesy, spicy, and downright comforting? These Simple Beef Enchiladas are your weeknight hero, packed with flavor and ready in a flash.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- a couple of cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- a splash of olive oil
- 1 can (10 oz) of red enchilada sauce
- a handful of chopped onions
- a pinch of salt and pepper
- 8 flour tortillas
- a dollop of sour cream (for serving)
- a few slices of avocado (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grab a baking dish.
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then toss in the onions and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Drain any excess fat for a lighter dish.
- Stir in half the enchilada sauce and a pinch of salt and pepper into the beef mixture. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to soak up all that flavor.
- Lay out your tortillas and divide the beef mixture among them. Sprinkle with a generous amount of cheddar cheese, then roll them up tight.
- Arrange the enchiladas in the baking dish, seam side down. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the rest of the cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Tip: Broil for the last 2 minutes for an extra crispy top.
- Let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Tip: This makes them easier to handle and lets the flavors settle.
Kick back and enjoy these enchiladas with a dollop of sour cream and slices of avocado for a creamy contrast to the spicy, cheesy goodness. Perfect for dipping or devouring straight from the pan.
Easy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Unlock the secret to weeknight dinners with this no-fuss, all-flavor ground beef and rice casserole. It’s the kind of meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds before the dish even hits the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (the leaner, the better for less grease)
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (because it’s all about that fluffy texture)
- 2 cups beef broth (for that deep, savory flavor)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (the secret creamy binder)
- A splash of Worcestershire sauce (just a dash to amp up the umami)
- A couple of garlic cloves, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
- 1 small onion, diced (for a little sweetness and crunch)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for that gooey, melty top)
- Salt and pepper (to season like a pro)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F—this casserole loves a hot start.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Tip: Drain excess fat for a cleaner taste.
- Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re just soft—about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to combine all those flavors.
- Season with salt and pepper, then transfer everything to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Tip: Resist the urge to peek; let the steam work its magic.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Tip: Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to set perfectly.
Perfectly hearty with a creamy, cheesy top, this casserole is a comfort food champion. Serve it with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies to round out the meal.
Quick Beef and Bean Burritos

Skip the takeout—these Quick Beef and Bean Burritos are your new weeknight hero. Stuff, wrap, devour.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (the leaner, the better)
- A splash of olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- A couple of tsp taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
- A squeeze of lime juice
Instructions
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Tip: Use a non-stick skillet for easy cleanup.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Crumble in the ground beef, cooking until no pink remains, roughly 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, stirring well to coat the beef evenly.
- Fold in the black beans, heating through for about 2 minutes. Tip: Mash a few beans for extra creaminess.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 20 seconds or on a dry skillet for 10 seconds each side to make them pliable.
- Divide the beef and bean mixture among the tortillas, topping each with shredded cheese and a sprinkle of cilantro.
- Squeeze a bit of lime juice over the filling before rolling them up tightly. Tip: Tuck in the sides first to keep the filling from spilling.
Every bite packs a punch of savory beef, creamy beans, and melty cheese, with a fresh cilantro-lime kick. Try serving with a side of spicy salsa or avocado slices for extra flair.
Simple Meatloaf with Glaze

Zesty and comforting, this meatloaf is your weeknight hero. **Mix** ground beef with a handful of pantry staples, **slather** with a sweet-tangy glaze, and **bake** to juicy perfection.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (the 80/20 kind for max flavor)
- A couple of slices of bread, torn into tiny bits
- 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%, your call)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- For the glaze: 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grab a loaf pan and give it a quick spray with non-stick.
- In a big bowl, soak the bread bits in milk until mushy. Tip: This keeps your meatloaf moist.
- Add ground beef, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix with your hands until just combined—overmixing makes it tough.
- Press the mixture into the loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Tip: Make a slight indentation down the center for even cooking.
- Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar for the glaze. Spread half over the meatloaf.
- Bake for 45 minutes, then add the rest of the glaze. Bake another 15 minutes until the internal temp hits 160°F. Tip: Let it rest 10 minutes before slicing for neat cuts.
Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, this meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with mashed potatoes and green beans, or slice it cold for sandwiches the next day.
Easy Beef and Mushroom Pie

Nothing beats the comfort of a hearty pie, especially when it’s packed with savory beef and earthy mushrooms. This Easy Beef and Mushroom Pie is your next weeknight hero—quick to make, impossible to resist.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- A couple of cups of sliced mushrooms
- 1 onion, diced
- A splash of olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp flour
- A pinch of salt and pepper
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F—get it hot for that perfect golden crust.
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Toss in the mushrooms and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and the mushrooms are soft, roughly 5 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure everything cooks evenly.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stirring well to combine. This’ll thicken your filling beautifully.
- Pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Tip: Taste as you go—adjust seasoning if needed.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a pie dish. Cover with the puff pastry sheet, trimming any excess. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- Brush the top with beaten egg for that glossy finish. Cut a few slits on top to let steam escape.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden. Tip: Rotate the dish halfway through for even browning.
Velvety beef meets flaky pastry in every bite—serve this pie with a crisp salad to cut through the richness. Or, go all out with a dollop of mashed potatoes on the side for the ultimate comfort meal.
Quick Sloppy Joes

Zesty and ready in a flash, these Quick Sloppy Joes are your weeknight hero. Bold flavors meet minimal effort—let’s dive in.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter twist)
- 1 small onion, diced (about a cup)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (about a cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- A splash of Worcestershire sauce
- A couple of hamburger buns
- Salt and pepper to season
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no pink remains, about 5 minutes.
- Toss in the onion and bell pepper. Sauté until they’re soft, about 4 minutes. Tip: Don’t rush this step—the veggies add sweetness and texture.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. This is where the magic starts!
- Mix in the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes. Tip: The sauce should thicken slightly but still be saucy.
- Season with salt and pepper. Give it a taste and adjust if needed. Tip: A pinch of smoked paprika can add a nice depth here.
- Toast the buns lightly if you like a bit of crunch. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture over the buns.
Rich and tangy, these sloppy joes are saucy with just the right amount of sweetness. Serve them with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a simple slaw for crunch.
Simple Beef and Vegetable Soup

Viral-worthy comfort in a bowl—this Simple Beef and Vegetable Soup is your weeknight hero. Bold flavors, zero fuss, and ready to rock your taste buds in under an hour.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- a couple of carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- a splash of olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- a pinch of salt and pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas
Instructions
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no pink remains, about 5 minutes.
- Toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the veggies soften, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, then stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add the frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
Make this soup your own by topping it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream. The rich beef broth and tender veggies make every spoonful a cozy delight.
Easy Ground Beef Pasta Bake

Kick off your weeknight dinner with this no-fuss ground beef pasta bake that’s all about big flavors and zero stress. Perfect for those ‘I need dinner now’ moments.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (the leaner, the better for less grease)
- 2 cups uncooked penne pasta (about half a box)
- 1 jar (24 oz) of your favorite marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (because more cheese is always better)
- A couple of garlic cloves, minced (fresh is best, but we won’t judge)
- A splash of olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 tsp dried basil (or a handful of fresh if you’re fancy)
- Salt and pepper (just a pinch of each to wake up the flavors)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) – no guessing, just set it and forget it.
- Boil the penne in salted water until al dente (usually 9-11 minutes, but check the package). Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a splash of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn!).
- Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and dried basil. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Mix the cooked pasta into the beef sauce until everything’s well coated. Transfer to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. For extra browning, pop it under the broiler for the last 2 minutes.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Absolutely dig into this cheesy, hearty bake straight from the oven. The pasta soaks up all that saucy goodness, while the melted cheese adds a crispy top layer. Try serving it with a simple side salad to cut through the richness.
Quick Beef and Spinach Lasagna

Alright, let’s dive into this Quick Beef and Spinach Lasagna that’s about to become your weeknight hero. No fuss, all flavor—ready in a flash.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (the good stuff)
- a couple of garlic cloves, minced
- a splash of olive oil
- 1 jar (24 oz) of your fave marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- a handful of fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 egg
- a pinch of salt and pepper
- 9 no-boil lasagna noodles
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- a sprinkle of grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F—get it hot and ready.
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and minced garlic, breaking it up as it browns, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat for a lighter dish.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Tip: A splash of red wine here? Chef’s kiss.
- Mix ricotta, spinach, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Tip: Wilt the spinach first if you prefer a softer texture.
- Layer 1/3 of the beef sauce in a 9×13 dish. Top with 3 noodles, half the ricotta mix, and 1/3 mozzarella. Repeat, ending with sauce and mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle Parmesan, and bake for 10 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes before slicing—patience pays off with clean cuts.
Velvety layers of cheese, hearty beef, and fresh spinach make every bite a delight. Serve with a crisp salad or garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Simple Beef and Cornbread Casserole

Feast your eyes on this no-fuss, all-comfort dish that’s about to become your weeknight hero. Layers of juicy beef and sweet cornbread come together in a bake that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (the good stuff)
- A couple of cups of your favorite cornbread mix
- 1 can of corn kernels, drained (or fresh if you’re feeling fancy)
- A splash of milk (any kind works)
- 1 egg (because binding is key)
- A handful of shredded cheddar (for that melty goodness)
- A dash of salt and pepper (season like you mean it)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F—no guessing, just set it and forget it.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Tip: Drain the fat for a leaner bite.
- While the beef’s doing its thing, whisk together the cornbread mix, milk, and egg in a bowl. Tip: A lumpy batter is totally fine; it bakes out.
- Stir the corn into the beef, then spread this mix at the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Pour the cornbread batter over the beef layer, smoothing it gently. Tip: Leave some peaks for texture.
- Sprinkle the cheddar on top like you’re decorating a cake.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Perfectly golden on top with a tender, beefy base, this casserole is a textural dream. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or dive in straight from the dish—no judgments here.
Conclusion
Ground beef is a weeknight hero, and our roundup of 18 delicious recipes proves just that! From hearty casseroles to quick skillet meals, there’s something for every taste. Give these recipes a try and discover your new go-to dinner. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your favorite and share the love on Pinterest. Happy cooking!