25 Easy Ground Beef Recipes 

Ground beef is a true hero when it comes to making dinner on busy weeknights. It is affordable, you can find it in any grocery store, and it is so versatile. You can use it in a thousand different ways. It also cooks very fast, which makes it the perfect ingredient for busy families and anyone who wants a quick and satisfying meal.

Are you tired of making the same old spaghetti and tacos all the time? If so, you have come to the right place. We have created over 20 delicious and original ground beef recipes. Every single one of these dinners can be cooked and on your table in 20 minutes or less. You will find savory skillet meals, comforting soups, and creative new ideas that put a fun twist on your old favorites. There is truly something here for everyone in the family.

Quick and Healthy Skillet Dinners

These one pan meals are the champions of busy weeknights. You cook everything in a single skillet. This means more time with your family and much less time scrubbing pots and pans.

1. Speedy Beef and Black Bean Skillet

This recipe is a complete meal all in one pan. It is full of protein and fiber from the beans. The smoky spices give it a bold and delicious flavor that everyone will love.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (85/15 is a good choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped into small pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, with the juice
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, until it softens.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. Cook until it is browned all over. Drain off any extra grease.
3. Add the chopped garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir and cook for one minute. You will smell a wonderful, spicy aroma.
4. Pour in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with their juice, and the beef broth. Stir everything together well. Bring the mixture to a low bubble.
5. Turn the heat down to medium low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This helps the flavors mix and the sauce get a little thicker.
6. Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper as you like. Serve it warm in bowls with your favorite toppings.

2. One Pan Unstuffed Peppers

This dish gives you all the great taste of classic stuffed bell peppers, but without all the hard work. You cook everything in one pan for a simple and delicious dinner.

Prep time: 7 minutes
Cook time: 13 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 bell peppers (any color you like), chopped into small pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, with the juice
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes, until they start to soften.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it is browned, breaking it up with your spoon. Drain off any extra grease.
3. Stir in the chopped garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for one more minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, the cooked rice, and the broth. Stir to combine everything. Let it come to a simmer.
5. Turn the heat down, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes. This lets the peppers become tender.
6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Put the lid back on and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. The cheese will melt and become bubbly.
7. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve it hot right from the skillet.

3. Creamy Tomato and Beef Pasta

This is a rich and comforting pasta dish. It feels like it simmered on the stove for hours, but it is ready in the time it takes to boil a pot of water.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta (or any short pasta you have)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the directions on the box. When it is done, drain it, but save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra grease.
4. Stir in the garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if you are using them. Cook for one minute.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Bring it to a simmer, then turn the heat down and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring now and then.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to your taste.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together so the pasta is covered in sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the saved pasta water.
8. Serve right away, with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top.

4. Greek Beef and Rice Skillet

This recipe brings the bright, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean to your dinner table. The feta cheese and lemon make it feel light, fresh, and a little bit special.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice from 1/2 a lemon
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet that has a lid over medium high heat. Add the chopped red onion and cook until it softens, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra grease.
3. Stir in the garlic, oregano, and dill. Cook for one more minute.
4. Add the rice to the skillet and stir it around for a minute so it gets coated in the flavors.
5. Pour in the broth and bring it to a boil. Then, turn the heat down to low, put the lid on, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. The rice should be tender and have soaked up all the liquid.
6. Take the skillet off the heat. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, fresh parsley, and lemon juice.
7. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Use a fork to fluff the rice and serve it right away.

5. Hearty 20 Minute Beef Chili

Chili is a classic comfort food, perfect for cool evenings or game day. This version uses ground beef and comes together in a flash, but it tastes like it simmered all day long.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 to 6 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, with the juice
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, tortilla chips

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until they soften, about 4 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned. Break it up with your spoon as it cooks. Drain off any extra grease.
3. Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for one minute until it smells fragrant.
4. Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil.
5. Turn the heat down and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Stir it every so often.
6. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Serve the chili hot in bowls and let everyone add their favorite toppings.

6. Quick Beef and Sweet Potato Hash

This is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The sweet potato adds a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory beef.

Prep time: 7 minutes
Cook time: 13 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into very small cubes
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 large eggs
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the diced sweet potato and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until it starts to soften and get a little brown.
2. Add the red onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until they soften.
3. Push all the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the ground beef to the empty side. Cook until it is browned, breaking it apart with your spoon. Drain off any extra grease.
4. Stir the beef and vegetables together. Season everything with the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Use your spoon to make four small wells or holes in the hash mixture. Crack one egg into each well.
6. Cover the skillet and cook for 3 to 5 minutes. The egg whites should be set, and the yolks should be cooked to how you like them.
7. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve right away.

Global Inspired Beef Bowls and Stir Fries

Take your taste buds on a quick trip around the world with these fast and flavorful meals. They are all served in a bowl or wrap for an easy and fun dinner experience.

7. 15 Minute Korean Beef Bowl

This recipe is bursting with big, bold Korean flavors. The gochujang gives it a sweet and spicy kick that is absolutely delicious and a family favorite.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 4 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
• 1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and grated
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 4 cups cooked rice, for serving
• Optional toppings: kimchi, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, fried egg, sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any extra liquid.
2. Add the chopped garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook for one minute until you can smell them.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, gochujang, honey, and rice vinegar.
4. Pour the sauce over the cooked beef. Stir everything together and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes. The sauce will get thicker and start to bubble.
5. To serve, put a big scoop of hot cooked rice in a bowl. Spoon the Korean beef over the rice. Add any toppings you like, such as kimchi, carrots, cucumber, a fried egg, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

8. Quick Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

This is a simple and healthy stir fry that comes together in a flash. The cabbage adds a nice crunch and makes the meal very satisfying and filling.

Prep time: 8 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
• 1/2 head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, cut into thin matchsticks
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra liquid.
2. Add the sliced onion and chopped garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion starts to soften.
3. Add the sliced cabbage and carrot sticks. Stir fry everything together for 5 to 7 minutes. The cabbage should be tender but still have a little crunch.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and ground ginger.
5. Pour the sauce over the stir fry. Toss everything to coat it well. Cook for another 2 minutes, until the sauce warms up and thickens just a little.
6. Serve right away over hot cooked rice or noodles.

9. Spicy Beef Lettuce Wraps

These lettuce wraps are light, fresh, and full of flavor. They are perfect for a low carb meal or a fun, interactive dinner where everyone builds their own.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
• 1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and grated
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha
• 1 can (8 ounces) water chestnuts, drained and chopped into small pieces
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions
• 1 head of butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated, washed, and dried

Instructions

1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra grease.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and sriracha.
4. Pour the sauce over the beef mixture and stir to combine. Let it cook for 2 minutes until the sauce is hot.
5. Stir in the chopped water chestnuts and sliced green onions.
6. To serve, place a large lettuce leaf on a plate. Spoon some of the spicy beef mixture into the center of the leaf. Wrap it up and enjoy.

10. Beef and Broccoli Noodles

This recipe is a complete meal in a bowl. The savory sauce coats the noodles, beef, and broccoli perfectly for a dinner that tastes just like takeout, but is healthier and faster.

Prep time: 8 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 8 ounces ramen or udon noodles
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and grated
• 3 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sriracha or other chili sauce (optional)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Optional garnishes: sesame seeds, sliced green onions

Instructions

1. Cook the noodles according to the directions on the package. Drain them and set them aside.
2. While the noodles cook, heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up. Drain off any extra grease.
3. Add the grated ginger and chopped garlic to the skillet. Cook for one minute until it smells fragrant.
4. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir fry for 3 to 4 minutes until they are bright green and tender crisp.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sriracha (if using), water, and cornstarch until the cornstarch is dissolved.
6. Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture. Cook, stirring all the time, until the sauce gets thick and coats everything. This takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
7. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together to combine. Serve right away, with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions if you like.

11. Spicy Beef and Peanut Noodles

This dish is inspired by the flavors of Southeast Asia. The creamy, spicy, and nutty peanut sauce is irresistible, and it comes together in the time it takes to boil pasta.

Prep time: 8 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
• 1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and grated
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup hot water
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon sriracha
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts, for garnish
• Sliced green onions and cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to the directions on the package. Drain it and set it aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra grease.
3. Add the chopped garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute until it smells fragrant.
4. In a small bowl, make the sauce. Whisk together the peanut butter and hot water until it is smooth. Then, stir in the soy sauce, honey, and sriracha.
5. Pour the peanut sauce over the ground beef in the skillet. Stir to combine and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is heated through.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
7. Serve right away, with a generous sprinkle of chopped peanuts, green onions, and cilantro on top.

12. Cajun Style Beef and Rice

This one pan meal brings the bold and spicy flavors of Louisiana to your dinner table. The “holy trinity” of onion, bell pepper, and celery is the base for this delicious dish.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken or beef broth
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Hot sauce, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet with a lid over medium high heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. This mix is often called the “holy trinity” in Cajun cooking. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra grease.
3. Stir in the chopped garlic and Cajun seasoning. Cook for one more minute.
4. Add the rice to the skillet and stir it around for a minute so it gets coated in all the flavors.
5. Pour in the broth and bring it to a boil. Then, turn the heat down to low, put the lid on, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. The rice should be tender and have soaked up all the liquid.
6. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Use a fork to fluff the rice and serve it hot, with a dash of hot sauce if you like it extra spicy.

Fun Twists on Family Favorites

These recipes take classic dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and meatballs and give them a quick and easy ground beef makeover. They are fun, delicious, and sure to please everyone.

13. Quick Cheeseburger Quesadillas

This is a fun mash up of a cheeseburger and a quesadilla. It has all the flavors you love from a burger, but in a crispy, cheesy tortilla. Kids and adults both love this creative dinner.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 8 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or American cheese)
• 1/2 cup diced pickles
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• Optional: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes for serving

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium high heat until it is browned. Drain off any extra grease.
2. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay four tortillas out on a flat surface. On one half of each tortilla, sprinkle a layer of cheese.
4. On top of the cheese, put some of the cooked beef, a sprinkle of diced pickles, a small drizzle of ketchup, and a small drizzle of mustard.
5. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to make a half moon shape.
6. Heat a clean large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully put the quesadillas in the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. They should be golden brown and the cheese should be melted inside.
7. Take them out of the skillet and let them cool for a minute before cutting them into wedges. Serve with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes on the side if you like.

14. Cheesy Beef and Mushroom Melts

This is a fantastic hot sandwich, like a patty melt, but made faster with ground beef. It is gooey, savory, and absolutely perfect for a comforting dinner.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 8 ounces sliced mushrooms (like cremini or white button)
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 8 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough or rye work well)
• 4 slices of provolone or Swiss cheese
• Mayonnaise or butter, for spreading on the bread

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium high heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned. Drain off any extra grease and set the cooked beef aside on a plate.
2. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and onion. Cook until they are softened and have a nice brown color, about 7 to 10 minutes.
3. Stir the garlic powder into the mushrooms, then pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the liquid reduces a little.
4. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine. Add a little salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or butter on one side of each slice of bread.
6. Place four slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean work surface. Top each slice with a slice of cheese, a portion of the beef and mushroom mixture, and then another slice of cheese.
7. Place the remaining four slices of bread on top, with the buttered side facing up.
8. Grill the sandwiches in a clean skillet or on a griddle over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side. The bread should be golden brown and crispy, and the cheese should be completely melted and gooey.

15. Quick Beef and Black Bean Burgers

These burgers are a fantastic way to add extra fiber and flavor to your meal. The mashed black beans help keep the burgers incredibly moist and also help you stretch the meat a little further.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 hamburger buns
• Your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, cheese, etc.)

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, add the drained black beans. Use a fork to mash them roughly. They should be mostly broken down but can have a few small chunks.
2. To the bowl with the mashed beans, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped red onion, chili powder, and cumin. Add a good pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Mix everything together gently with your hands until it is just combined. Do not over mix.
4. Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and form them into patties.
5. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium high heat. Lightly oil the pan. Cook the burgers for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice brown crust.
6. Serve the burgers on hamburger buns with your favorite toppings.

16. Egyptian Inspired Beef and Orzo

This recipe is a little different and very delicious. The warm spices like cinnamon and allspice are common in Egyptian cooking and they pair beautifully with ground beef.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 cup orzo pasta (small rice shaped pasta)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh mint or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet with a lid over medium high heat. Add the onion and cook until it softens, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra grease.
3. Stir in the garlic, cinnamon, and allspice. Cook for one more minute until it smells fragrant.
4. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir it around for about 1 minute to lightly toast it.
5. Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Bring it to a boil, then turn the heat down to low, put the lid on, and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. The orzo should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Garnish with fresh mint or parsley and serve hot.

Comforting Soups and Skillet Meals

These recipes are warm, comforting, and perfect for a cooler evening. They are like a hug in a bowl or a warm blanket on a plate, all ready in just 20 minutes.

17. Creamy Beef and Mushroom Soup

This is not your average soup. It is rich, creamy, and packed with savory beef and mushroom flavor. It is pure comfort in a bowl and so quick to make.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra grease and set the beef aside on a plate.
2. In the same pot, add the sliced mushrooms and chopped onion. Cook until they soften and the mushrooms have released their liquid, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and dried thyme. Cook for one more minute.
4. Pour in the beef broth and the soy sauce. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Heat everything through, but do not let it boil.
6. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Serve the soup hot, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.

18. 20 Minute Beef and Zucchini Skillet

This is a simple, healthy, and delicious skillet meal that is perfect for summer when zucchini is in season. The fire roasted tomatoes add a wonderful smoky flavor.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium zucchinis, cut into small cubes
• 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
• 1 can (15 ounces) fire roasted diced tomatoes, with the juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra grease.
3. Stir in the cubed zucchini and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until it starts to get a little tender.
4. Add the chopped garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes if you are using them. Cook for one more minute.
5. Pour in the fire roasted diced tomatoes with their juice. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes. The zucchini should be tender and the sauce will have thickened a little.
6. Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to your taste.
7. Serve hot, on its own, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the juices.

19. Beef and Cornbread Skillet

This recipe is a fun and delicious twist on a classic. It is like a beefy chili with a soft, golden cornbread topping, all baked in one skillet.

Prep time: 8 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 can (15 ounces) chili beans, with the sauce
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 box (8.5 ounces) cornbread mix
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 large egg

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Make sure you are using an oven safe skillet.
2. In your large oven safe skillet over medium high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned. Drain off any extra grease.
3. Stir the chili beans and barbecue sauce into the beef mixture. Let it come to a simmer.
4. In a separate small bowl, make the cornbread topping. Combine the cornbread mix, milk, and egg. Stir until it is just mixed. Do not over mix.
5. Carefully pour the cornbread batter evenly over the beef mixture in the skillet. Use a spoon to spread it gently if you need to.
6. Put the skillet in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The cornbread should be golden brown on top and cooked through in the center.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out portions that include both the beef filling and the cornbread topping.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking with Ground Beef

Here are some common questions people have when cooking with ground beef. We hope these tips help you feel more confident in the kitchen.

Why is ground beef such a good choice for quick meals?

Ground beef is a fantastic choice for many reasons. It is very affordable, so it fits into most grocery budgets. It is incredibly versatile and can be used in dishes from all over the world. Most importantly, it cooks very quickly, usually in just a few minutes. This makes it the perfect protein for busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table fast.

What is the best fat percentage for ground beef in these recipes?

The best fat percentage depends on what you are making and your personal taste.

• 80/20 (80% lean, 20% fat): This has more fat, which means more flavor. It is great for burgers and dishes where you want a rich taste. You will need to drain off the excess grease after cooking.
• 85/15 (85% lean, 15% fat): This is a great all purpose choice. It has good flavor but is not overly greasy. It works well for most of the recipes here, like skillet meals, chili, and pasta sauces.
• 90/10 or 93/7 (90%+ lean): This is the leanest option. It is a healthier choice with less saturated fat. It can be a little drier, so it is best used in dishes with a lot of sauce, like the soups and chili in this collection.

What is the best way to brown ground beef?

The key to good browning is a hot pan and patience. Heat a little oil in your skillet over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and let it sit undisturbed for a minute or two. This allows it to develop a brown crust. Then, use a spoon to break it apart and continue cooking until it is no longer pink. Always remember to drain off any excess grease after browning.

How do I properly drain grease from ground beef?

Draining the grease is an important step for both health and flavor. The easiest way is to carefully tilt the skillet and use a large spoon to push the beef to one side, letting the grease pool in the empty space. Then, use a spoon to scoop out the grease and discard it in a heat safe container (like an empty can). Never pour hot grease down your sink drain, as it can clog your pipes.

How can I add more flavor to my ground beef dishes?

Ground beef is a great base, but it loves flavor. Here are some easy ways to make your dishes even more delicious:

• Season generously. Do not be shy with spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Use aromatics. Cooking onions, garlic, and ginger in the pan before or after the beef adds a huge amount of flavor.
• Don’t skip the browning. The brown bits that stick to the pan are packed with flavor. When you add liquid like broth or tomatoes, scrape them up with your spoon to mix that flavor into your dish.
• Use good quality beef broth. Using broth instead of water adds a deeper, richer savory taste to your sauces and soups.

More Easy and Healthy Recipes

If you liked these ground beef recipes, you might also enjoy these other quick and healthy meal ideas from Upgraded Health.

• 20 Easy 20 Minute Ground Chicken Recipes
• 20 Easy 20 Minute Ground Turkey Recipes
• How To Naturally Boost Your Immune System
• 14 High Protein Spring Salad Recipes

We hope these recipes make your weeknight dinners easier, faster, and more delicious. Happy cooking