Our best-ever, easy Ground Beef Recipes. Everything from the best Meatloaf to classic beefy Lasagna. These are our most popular, best-reviewed recipes for ground beef.
We always keep a stash of ground beef in our freezer for cheap and easy dinners, and these recipes are our go-to, family-approved meals. You will find plenty of delicious and healthy ground beef dinner ideas on this list.
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Ground Beef Recipes
This collection of ground beef recipes is GOLD and you’ll make them over and over. We have everything from 30-minute meals to casseroles, soups, and even slow cooker meals. It’s not surprising that our most popular ground beef recipes are:
- Made with pantry staple ingredients
- Easy-to-follow
- Quick to make
- Family-friendly
- Flavor packed
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you don’t have ground beef on hand, some recipes can be substituted with ground turkey or ground chicken and sometimes ground pork. If you are looking for a creative vegetarian substitute, try finely chopping mushrooms or eggplant in a food processor.
How to Freeze Ground Beef
Most recipes call for 1 pound of ground beef so it’s smart to freeze in 1 lb portions or even 1/2 lb portions which will thaw quicker. Use a kitchen scale to weigh out portions of ground beef and transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out any excess air and seal.
Natasha’s Tip for Freezing Ground Beef:
Use a rolling pin to flatten the beef inside the bag and remove excess air, making it easier to stack and store in the freezer and faster to thaw.
How to Thaw Ground Beef
- Quick Thaw – place the sealed frozen bag of beef into a large bowl and cover with cold water. Place a weight over the bag to keep it submerged. It should thaw in about 20 minutes for 1 lb portions or 10 minutes for 1/2 lb portions. Use immediately and do not refreeze quick-thawed beef.
- Thaw in the Refrigerator – place the sealed package on a plate and thaw in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours. Cook or refreeze within 2 days.
- Can I thaw in the Microwave? We do not recommend thawing in the microwave due to uneven thawing and risk of partial cooking.
EASY Ground Beef Recipes
Ground Beef Stir Fry ( ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.00 from 52 votes) – a quick and easy ground beef and vegetable stir fry that’s so saucy and satisfies the craving for takeout.
Ground Beef Stroganoff (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.95 from 870 votes) – Using ground beef in stroganoff is brilliant and makes this a 30-minute meal. You’ll love the rich and creamy mushroom sauce.
Cheeseburger Sliders (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.99 from 1375 votes) – these are a birthday party favorite and what my kids request most for birthday parties. You can make them ahead for easy entertaining.
Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0 from 105 votes) – a one-pan, 30-min easy dinner that you’ll make on repeat. It’s one of the best ways to use ground beef. Don’t forget all of your favorite taco toppings!
Swedish Meatballs (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.97 from 200 votes) – Juicy and tender Swedish meatballs in a rich gravy sauce. Serve these meatballs over mashed potatoes for real comfort food.
Ground Beef Tacos (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0 from 77 votes) – easy peasy and you won’t believe the small list of ingredients. These are our family’s favorite juicy beef tacos and they always disappear fast.
Spaghetti Meat Sauce (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.97 from 188 votes) – beefy, juicy, and so satisfying. It comes together fast, so it is perfect for busy weeknights. P.S. It’s freezer-friendly, reheats beautifully, and is perfect for meal prep.
Taco Salad (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0 from 33 votes) – Make a taco salad for the easiest taco night. It is basically a deconstructed taco and a low-carb option since there is no taco shell. It’s make-ahead and perfect for meal planning.
Ground Beef CASSEROLES
Classic Lasagna (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.98 from 1061 votes) – This Beef Lasagna recipe is saucy, flavorful and feeds a crowd for way less than going out to eat. It also reheats perfectly so it’s great for a to-go lunch.
Lasagna Roll-Ups (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.99 from 442 votes) – Can you tell we love lasagna? Lasagna Roll-Ups taste like classic lasagna but are faster to make, bake and serve. They are make-ahead, freezer-friendly, and reheat well.
Baked Ziti (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.99 from 247 votes) – The ultimate beefy and cheesy pasta casserole. This casserole is loaded and super satisfying. It also reheats well so you’ll be excited about leftovers.
Beef Burritos (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0 from 12 votes) – these are make-ahead friendly and a favorite in our family. My kids totally love these! They are saucy, cheesy, and protein-packed. You’ll make them on your regular rotation.
Slow Cooker Ground Beef Recipes
Slow Cooker Chili (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0 from 2011 votes) – set it and forget it! This is our most popular crockpot chili and it’s perfect as a main course, served over baked potatoes, or as a side. Easy and excellent.
Slow Cooker Lasagna (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.97 from 186 votes) – This make-ahead Lasagna is juicy, cheesy, beefy, and tastes just as good as the classic, but easier. There is no need to pre-cook noodles, and you can make it the night before so it is perfect for busy weeknights and Sunday lunch.
Slow Cooker Bolognese (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.98 from 107 votes) – You’ll love the rich flavors that form with slow cooking this bolognese sauce in a crockpot. Best of all, there is no babysitting required.
Ground Beef Soups and Chilis
Taco Soup (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0 from 224 votes) – Make taco night exciting (and even easier) with this Beef Taco Soup Recipe. It’s as easy as sauteing the meat with taco seasoning, adding diced veggies, and simmering for 15 minutes.
Pasta e Fagioli (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.99 from 296 votes). This restaurant copycat is so hearty, you will be coming back for seconds. It is loaded with delicious veggies and ground beef.
Hamburger Soup (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.00 from 221 votes) This ground beef soup is loaded with tender beef, diced tomatoes, and hearty veggies. A warming and comforting soup recipe that’s perfect for winter.
Cabbage Soup – (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.99 from 287 votes). Tastes just like stuffed cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling them up.
Lasagna Soup (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.99 from 159 votes) – this is the easiest way to satisfy lasagna cravings. All of your favorite lasagna ingredients are nestled in a rich tomato broth and topped with ricotta cheese.
Italian Wedding Soup (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.99 from 69 votes)- A classic that comes together so quickly with meatballs, pasta and veggies in a richly flavored broth.
Stovetop Beef Chili (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.92 from 302 votes) – Rich, hearty and loaded with vegetables and beans. This ground beef chili is comfort food at its best. Best of all, it takes under 30 minutes to make.
More Ground Beef Dinner Ideas
Spaghetti and Meatballs (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.95 from 653 votes) – Make this, and you’ll be known for your spaghetti and meatballs. The meatballs are incredible, with a mix of ground beef, Italian sausage, and a special ingredient that makes them super tender.
Meatloaf with the Best Glaze (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.99 from 8923 votes) – You’re probably doing a double take with those reviews, but they are real! Say goodbye to boring and underwhelming meatloaf. This tender ground beef meatloaf is a winner and everyone raves about the sweet and tangy glaze.
Hamburger Recipe (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.84 from 144 votes) – Get all of our tips and tricks for the juiciest burgers on the block and learn which ground beef is best for burgers. We also shared the recipe for our “secret sauce!”
Sloppy Joe Recipe ( 4.94 from 1877 votes) – of the most beloved recipes on my blog, but also one of the easiest. This is a crowd-pleaser for sure.
Juicy Meatballs Recipe (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.96 from 268 votes) – Big, flavorful and juicy homemade meatballs. These are make-ahead, freezer-friendly, and perfect-for-meal-prep.
American Goulash Recipe (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0 from 29 votes) -A hearty one-pot dinner that is beefy and so saucy. It also reheats well so it’s perfect for meal planning.
If you are looking for more family-friendly ground beef dinners, try these:
- Meatballs Parmesan
- Salisbury Steak
- Zucchini Lasagna
- Shepherd’s Pie
- Egg Roll in a Bowl
- Smashburger Recipe
- Foil-Pack Nachos
I hope you find some new favorite ground beef recipes here to make your busy weeknights even easier.
Hello Natasha,
I love your recipes and some of my cook show presentations I go on your site and print out a couple of meatless salads to advertise to the group and let them know about your recipes. Have you ever done a veggie eggplant lasagna? I searched but didn’t find it. When you do I can’t wait to try yours. Thank you again keep those recipes rolling. It’s cook show time!!
I have not tested that Eugene but it sounds delicious! I’ll have to add it to my list! Thank you!
Here is my recipe for Shepherd’s pie. It originates from Canadian Living and is very simple and pleasing. Think the addition of Tomato Paste would be nice.
SHEPHERD’S PIE_CANADIAN LIVING
Ingredients
4 large potatoes (unpeeled), cubed (2 lb/1 kg)
1/4 cup (50 mL) milk or buttermilk
1 green onion, sliced
1 lb (500 g) lean ground beef
1 tbsp (15 mL) vegetable oil
2-1/2 cups (625 mL) small mushrooms (about 8 oz/250 g)
1 onion, diced
1 tsp (5 mL) dried thyme
1/4 tsp (1 mL) each salt and pepper
1-1/2 (375 mL) cups sodium-reduced beef stock
1 tbsp (15 mL) each cornstarch and Dijon mustard
1 cup (250 mL)frozen peas
Preparation
In large saucepan of boiling salted water, cover and cook potatoes until tender, about 12 minutes. Drain and return to pot; shaking pan, dry over low heat, about 1 minute. Mash coarsely; stir in milk and green onion.
Meanwhile, in skillet, fry beef over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Transfer to plate. Drain fat from skillet.
In same skillet, heat oil over medium heat; fry mushrooms, onion, thyme, salt and pepper, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are golden, about 8 minutes.
Whisk together stock, cornstarch and mustard; stir into skillet. Add beef and peas; bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened and heated through, about 5 minutes. Serve over potatoes. (I put potatoes on to and sprinkle with a light coating of cayenne.
That is so great of you to share! Thank you very much. I look forward to trying it.
hi NATASHA,WHAT DO YOU CHARGE FOR YOUR GROUND BEEF ITEMS?
Hi Mike, I’m not sure I understand your question. At this time all of our recipes are displayed at no cost.
Love your recipes. Very easy and delicious. You’re funny too! Love that. The first recipe I made was your lasagna. Very good and easy to make. Thank you soo much for these easy recipes
You’re welcome Leona1 I’m so glad to hear you’re loving our recipes.
I really love the way you do your videos!
I’d love for you to try this recipe I got from my mom in the 70’s…I doubled the hamburger, took out smoke drops (*ugh), use only Himalayan pink salt…
not enough “space” in this box, can you DM/e-mail me?
Hi Debbie, thank you for thinking of me. I just sent you an email.
First of all you’re super funny, Your recipes are delicious and simple.
I’ve made meat sauce but with penne I’ve Ali made garlic butter chicken I served it with smashed baby potatoes and zucchini so delicious.Can you share a recipe for shepherds pie and maybe a side to go with it
Thanks much Salena.
Hello Salena. Thank you so much for your compliment. However, I don’t have a recipe for shepherd’s pie yet but I can add this to our list as a suggestion.
I wish I could just click on the picture of the food and be taken to the recipe for it. I am busy and would appreciate a quicker way to get to the recipes. Maybe I am doing something wrong?
Hi Becky, If you click the red JUMP TO RECIPE button at the top of the post that will take you straight away to the printable view. I hope that helps
Have patience….breathe…s.l.o.w down Becky….
Thanks for all of your yummy recipes and upbeat, entertaining and informative videos. My daughter and I found you through your chicken avocado salad recipe and have continued to try more than a dozen of your other recipes over the last few months. They have all been great! Thanks for what you do – giving us new cooking inspiration.
Thank you for that thoughtful feedback, Kelly!! I’m so glad you discovered our blog & enjoyed our recipes!
Thank you for all your wonderful receipes. They are so easy to make and so delicious. My husband is a picky eater and he has enjoyed all your receipes that I have done.
Thank you thank you.
You’re welcome! I’m so happy you’re enjoying our recipes.
Hi Natasha,
I think your recipes are amazing and I’ve tried a few so far.
When I need inspiration to cook I look at your blog.
Many thanks
Awww that’s the best! Thank you so much for sharing that with me. I’m all smiles!
Spaghetti and Meatball recipe is the best I’ve ever tasted.
The Avacodo and Chicken salad is terrific and I’ve passed it on to friends who don’t love cooking as much as I do, but want to eat well without too much time in the kitchen.
I raised four children and had to look high and low for great cookbooks and healthy recipes back in those days. At 71, I am a life long foodie and still searching out the best of the best. Your recipes fall into that category.
Your website and recipes are an inspiration to any mother, grandmother or just plain old gourmet. Thank you Natasha.
Victoria, B.C.
Thank you so much for sharing that thoughtful feedback and review with me, Deborrah! I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed our blog!
Thanks for all these great recipes in one place. I always have ground beef in the freezer.
You’re welcome, Laura! I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed our blog!
Hello, would you consider providing metric measurements for the ingredients in the future, for your audience from the rest of the world?
Hi Kirill, over the past year, we have been adding metric measurements and are working towards having metric on all of our recipes. If you go to the recipe card for the recipe, click, “metric” and it will display.
Truly appreciate your inspirations. Thank you and enjoy your day
Thank you for that wonderful compliment!
Looks yummy recipes..
Thank you for that great review! I’m so glad you’re enjoying our recipes!
Always looking for more easy recipe ideas – thanks for sharing!
You’re welcome!I’m happy you’re enjoying our recipes!
What a great roundup! I know what I will be making all week long! These look fantastic!
Thank you Sara! I’m glad the list was useful to you!
So many great recipes! Can’t wait to try them all!
I’m so glad you’re enjoying our recipes!
Ground beef is our go-to for dinners. My kids love spaghetti and meatballs and hubby can always go for meatloaf. Thanks for putting all these great recipes in one place.
You’re welcome! I’m so happy you enjoyed it Jen!
Wow, these all look so good- I don’t know which one to try first! All of your recipes are so delicious with easy to read directions, thank you so much natasha:)
You’re so nice! Thank you for that thoughtful feedback!