You’re in for a treat! Ground beef is the ultimate weeknight hero, transforming into mouthwatering meals that kids and adults alike will devour. From speedy skillet dinners to cozy casseroles, our roundup of 20 Delicious Kid-Friendly Ground Beef Recipes is packed with easy, crowd-pleasing ideas. Get ready to add some new favorites to your family’s meal rotation—let’s dive in!
Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas

Viral on every feed, these Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas are your next obsession. Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, they’re a no-brainer for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Season beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat for a crispier quesadilla.
- Remove beef from skillet and set aside. Wipe skillet clean.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle half with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- Top cheese with half of the cooked beef, then fold tortilla in half. Press down lightly with spatula.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cheese is melted. Tip: Cover skillet briefly to ensure cheese melts evenly.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas, cheese, and beef.
- Slice quesadillas into wedges and serve with salsa and sour cream. Tip: Let quesadillas sit for a minute before slicing to keep fillings intact.
Kick back and enjoy the gooey, beefy goodness. Perfect for dipping or topping with fresh guac, these quesadillas are a crowd-pleaser any day.
Beef and Cheese Stuffed Peppers

Bold flavors collide in these beef and cheese stuffed peppers—your next weeknight hero. Packed with savory goodness, they’re a no-fuss, high-reward dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cut tops off bell peppers; remove seeds and membranes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef, salt, black pepper, and paprika; cook until beef is browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in cooked rice and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; mix well.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture.
- Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish; pour 1/4 cup water into the dish.
- Cover with foil; bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil; sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Now dig into these juicy, cheesy delights. The peppers soften just enough to hold their shape, while the filling stays irresistibly hearty. Try serving them with a dollop of sour cream or a side of crusty bread for an extra touch of comfort.
Mini Meatloaf Muffins

You won’t believe how these Mini Meatloaf Muffins pack all the comfort of classic meatloaf into bite-sized perfection. Perfect for meal prep or party snacks, they’re a game-changer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a muffin tin with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1/2 cup ketchup, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
- Add 1/4 cup milk to the mixture to keep it moist, stirring gently to incorporate.
- Divide the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, pressing down lightly to fill each cup.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety.
- Let the muffins rest in the tin for 5 minutes before removing to serve—this helps them hold their shape.
With a juicy interior and a slightly crispy edge, these muffins are a textural dream. Serve them atop a smear of mashed potatoes for a mini comfort food feast.
Ground Beef Tacos

Get ready to shake up your taco night with these unbeatable Ground Beef Tacos—quick, flavorful, and downright addictive.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup water
- 8 taco shells
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Tip: Don’t let the garlic burn—it turns bitter fast.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to coat the beef.
- Pour in water and simmer the mixture for 5 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Tip: The water helps the spices meld and keeps the beef juicy.
- While the beef simmers, warm the taco shells according to package instructions, usually 5 minutes at 350°F.
- Tip: For extra crunch, toast the shells directly on the oven rack.
- Fill each taco shell with the beef mixture, then top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
You’ll love the crispy shells against the savory, spiced beef—pile on the toppings for a fresh, creamy contrast. Try serving these with a side of lime wedges for a zesty kick.
Beefy Mac and Cheese

Whip up the ultimate comfort food mashup that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory beef. This Beefy Mac and Cheese is a weeknight hero that’ll have everyone begging for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- While the beef cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the cooked macaroni and beef to the cheese sauce. Stir until evenly coated and heated through, about 2 minutes.
This dish delivers a creamy, cheesy bite with a hearty beefy twist. Serve it straight from the pot for a cozy family dinner, or top with crispy breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.
Homemade Hamburger Helper

Just when you thought comfort food couldn’t get any easier, this Homemade Hamburger Helper slaps. **Whip up** this creamy, cheesy pasta in less time than it takes to decide what to watch on Netflix.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- **Heat** olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- **Add** ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no pink remains, about 5 minutes.
- **Sprinkle** garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the beef, stirring to combine.
- **Pour** in water and milk, then bring to a boil.
- **Stir** in elbow macaroni, reduce heat to medium, and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- **Remove** skillet from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- **Let** sit for 2 minutes to thicken before serving.
Velvety cheese clings to every noodle, creating a dish that’s irresistibly creamy. **Top** with fresh parsley or hot sauce for an extra kick, or serve alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Hungry for a quick, flavor-packed dinner? This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry **delivers** tender slices and crisp veggies in a savory sauce—ready in 20 minutes flat.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add beef slices in a single layer; cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to sear.
- Flip beef; cook 1 minute more until browned but not fully cooked. Transfer to a plate.
- Add remaining 1 tbsp oil to skillet. Toss in broccoli; stir-fry 3 minutes until bright green.
- Push broccoli to sides; add garlic and ginger to center. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water in a bowl until smooth.
- Pour sauce over broccoli. Return beef to skillet; stir to coat. Simmer 2 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat; let stand 1 minute before serving.
Unbelievably tender beef meets crisp-tender broccoli, all glazed in a sticky-sweet sauce. Serve over steaming rice or pile it into lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist.
Ground Beef Sliders

Fire up your taste buds with these juicy Ground Beef Sliders—perfect for game day or a quick family dinner. Packed with flavor and ready in minutes, they’re a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 12 slider buns
- 6 slices cheddar cheese, halved
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Season 1 lb ground beef with 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp onion powder. Mix well.
- Form the beef into 12 small patties, ensuring they’re slightly larger than the buns as they’ll shrink.
- Cook patties in the skillet for 3 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Place a half slice of cheddar cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking to melt.
- Toast the slider buns lightly in the oven or on the skillet for 1 minute.
- Mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup ketchup, and 1 tbsp mustard in a bowl to create the sauce.
- Spread the sauce on the bottom buns, add a beef patty, and top with pickles and the top bun.
Rich in flavor with a perfect balance of tangy and savory, these sliders boast a juicy patty and creamy cheese. Serve them with a side of sweet potato fries for an unbeatable combo.
Beef and Potato Casserole

Ready to level up your comfort food game? This beef and potato casserole is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck wins.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in salt, pepper, and paprika. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix sour cream and milk until smooth. Add potatoes and toss to coat.
- Layer half the potato mixture in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with beef mixture, then remaining potatoes.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Absolutely irresistible with its creamy potatoes and savory beef, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

Dig into this classic comfort food that’s got everyone from kids to gourmands licking their plates clean. Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is your weeknight hero, ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 28-oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Increase heat to medium-high, add ground beef, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain spaghetti and return to the pot.
- Add meat sauce to the spaghetti and toss to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Make every bite count with this hearty, flavorful dish. The meat sauce clings perfectly to the al dente spaghetti, while the Parmesan adds a salty, umami kick. Try serving it with a side of garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.
Beef and Bean Burritos

Overflowing with flavor and ready in a flash, these beef and bean burritos are your next meal obsession. Packed with hearty fillings and wrapped in a warm tortilla, they’re a crowd-pleaser any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in ground cumin, chili powder, and salt, mixing well to combine.
- Fold in refried beans and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Warm flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
- 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 fold the sides of the tortillas in and roll up tightly.
- Return the burritos to the skillet, seam side down, and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve hot, topped with sour cream and chopped cilantro.
Bursting with savory beef, creamy beans, and melted cheese, these burritos offer a satisfying crunch with every bite. Try serving them with a side of spicy salsa or a fresh avocado salad for an extra kick.
Ground Beef Pizza Rolls

Snag this easy, cheesy ground beef pizza rolls recipe for your next game day or lazy dinner. Stuff crescent dough with seasoned beef and melty mozzarella for a handheld twist on pizza night.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tube (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until no pink remains, about 5 minutes. Drain fat.
- Stir in pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Unroll crescent dough and separate into triangles. Spoon 1 tbsp beef mixture and 1 tsp mozzarella onto each triangle.
- Roll up from the wide end, tucking in the sides to seal. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Brush tops with olive oil and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Now these pizza rolls pack a crispy exterior with a gooey, savory center. Try dunking them in extra pizza sauce or ranch for an extra flavor kick.
Beefy Tater Tot Casserole

Unleash the ultimate comfort food with this Beefy Tater Tot Casserole—loaded with savory beef, melty cheese, and crispy tots for a dish that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion, breaking it into crumbles, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain excess fat, then stir in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix in condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk until well combined, then simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set.
Make every bite count with the creamy, cheesy beef base topped with perfectly crispy tater tots. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a side of steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Simple Beef Stroganoff

You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up this creamy, dreamy Simple Beef Stroganoff. Just a few ingredients and you’re on your way to comfort food heaven.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 12 oz egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
- Add mushrooms and cook until they release their juices, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer.
- Whisk flour with a little water to make a slurry. Stir into the skillet to thicken the sauce.
- Return beef to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes, then stir in sour cream. Heat through but do not boil.
- Meanwhile, cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain.
- Serve beef mixture over noodles. Season with salt and pepper.
Just like that, you’ve got a dish with tender beef, silky sauce, and a hint of tang. Try topping with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

Kickstart your weeknight dinner with this hearty Ground Beef and Rice Skillet—quick, flavorful, and downright satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin, mixing well to coat the beef.
- Add white rice, frozen peas and carrots, and water to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam.
- Fluff with a fork before serving.
Serve this skillet with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness. The rice absorbs all the savory flavors, while the peas and carrots add a sweet crunch.
Beef and Cornbread Casserole

Savory meets sweet in this hearty dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck fame. Layer bold flavors with minimal fuss—your crowd will beg for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 egg
- 1 can (15 oz) cream-style corn
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Brown 1 lb ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles, for 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup cornmeal, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt.
- Add 1 cup milk, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, and 1 egg to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
- Fold in 1 can cream-style corn gently to keep the batter fluffy.
- Spread the beef evenly in the prepared dish. Pour the cornbread batter over the beef.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cornbread is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving to set the layers.
Cheesy, golden crust gives way to a moist, savory-sweet interior. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a side of crisp green salad for a full meal.
Quick Beef and Veggie Soup

Dig into this Quick Beef and Veggie Soup—your weeknight savior that’s hearty, healthy, and ready in a flash. Bold flavors meet minimal effort, perfect for those “I need dinner now” moments.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups diced carrots
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add 1 lb ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no pink remains, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 1 cup diced onions and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in 4 cups beef broth, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits—this adds depth to your soup.
- Add 2 cups diced carrots and 2 cups diced potatoes, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Tip: For richer flavor, let the soup sit for 10 minutes off the heat before serving.
- Stir in 1 cup frozen peas, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp dried thyme, cooking just until peas are heated through, about 2 minutes.
- Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, but remember the broth reduces slightly as it cooks.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
- Tip: For a creamy twist, swirl in a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
This soup boasts a savory broth with tender chunks of beef and veggies that melt in your mouth. Try serving it with crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of cooked quinoa for an extra protein punch.
Ground Beef Nachos

Alright, let’s dive into these Ground Beef Nachos—crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. A game-day favorite that’s ready in minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 bag (10 oz) tortilla chips
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup guacamole
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5 minutes, breaking it into crumbles.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3 minutes until beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Spread tortilla chips evenly on a baking sheet. Top with cooked ground beef.
- Sprinkle cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the beef and chips.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is fully melted.
- Remove from oven and immediately top with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and cilantro.
- Dollop sour cream and guacamole on top before serving.
Bold flavors and crunchy textures make these nachos irresistible. Serve them straight from the baking sheet for a fun, shareable meal!
Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Packed with flavor and ready in a flash, these Beef and Cheese Empanadas are your next obsession. Flaky crust, gooey cheese, and savory beef—what’s not to love?
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 package (14 oz) pre-made empanada dough
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces, about 5 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat for a lighter filling.
- Season beef with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly, then stir in cheddar cheese.
- Roll out empanada dough on a floured surface. Cut into 6-inch circles.
- Spoon 2 tbsp of beef mixture onto each dough circle. Fold dough over filling and seal edges with a fork. Tip: Don’t overfill to prevent bursting.
- Brush empanadas with beaten egg for a golden finish. Place on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until crust is golden and crisp. Tip: Rotate the pan halfway for even browning.
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—these empanadas are a textural dream. Serve with a spicy salsa or cool sour cream for the ultimate bite.
Savory Beef and Mushroom Pasta

Bold flavors meet in this Savory Beef and Mushroom Pasta—a dish that’s quick to whip up but big on taste. Perfect for weeknights when you crave something hearty without the hassle.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz pasta
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Tip: Drain excess fat for a lighter dish.
- Add mushrooms, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook until mushrooms are soft, about 4 minutes.
- Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure mushrooms brown nicely.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan until melted.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta in boiling salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain.
- Tip: Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Toss cooked pasta with the beef and mushroom sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Outstandingly creamy with a kick of heat, this pasta pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. Try topping with extra Parmesan for an indulgent twist.
Conclusion
Kickstart your family meals with these 20 kid-friendly ground beef recipes that promise ease and deliciousness in every bite! Perfect for busy weeknights, this roundup is your go-to for dishes that kids will love and parents will appreciate. Don’t forget to try them out, leave a comment with your family’s favorites, and share the love by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!