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.
Hi Natasha
All your recipes look lovely and easy to prepare. I believe you are going to produce cookbook. Will the recipes in your cookbook have English measurements?
Regards
Maria
Hi Maria, we plan to have a conversion sheet, but we’re still working on that portion of the book, so your timing is impeccable! Thank you for that great thought and suggestion!
I love your recipes! I usually have most ingredients on hand and they always turn out great!
Thank you for that awesome feedback, Nancy! Do you have a favorite from our blog?
I have tried many of your recipes and loved them all. I make a weekly menu before shopping and use your site when deciding what to have for dinner. I’ve also used many side dishes and desserts. I bookmark each recipe for easy referral.
Hi Karen! I am so happy you enjoy my recipes and reference them to make your grocery list. Thank you for sharing that with me.
I love your YouTube channel. When I need a recipe I go to you first. If you don’t have it then I try something else. You have have a great sense of humor and are so fun to watch. Thanks for brightening up what is at times a sad world. Praying for Ukraine.
Hi David! Thank you so very much. 🙂
Thank you so much for being the all-American good cook. Every recipe of yours I’ve tried is an absolute winner. They’re simple but delicious yet present as elegant. You’ve made my life so much easier.
Hi Mary! I’m so glad to hear that. Thank you for sharing with me. It truly makes my heart happy to hear that.
Hi Natasha,
I’ve just started, and I’ve tried a few of your recipes and honestly, they are amazing. Have you written any books? I would love to buy them. Thank you, you are great!!!
Best,
Marina
Thank you for your good comments, Marina. I am working on a cookbook now, so stay tuned!
I want to thank you for always being so cheerful and fun. I’m in my late 70’s, been cooking and baking for over 56 yrs. Yet I have learned so many helpful tips from you. We love your recipes!! We also wanted to let you know we are praying for your family and your country. God Be with you all.
Hi Joanne, that is so nice of you. Thank you for your kind words and good feedback. It means a lot to us.
I subscribed a few days ago and I’ve already tried quite a few of your recipes I love them and your videos. 👍
Thank you so much for subscibing! Welcome! I hope you love our recipes!
Off topic of the beef recipes, I made your fantastic pizza dough the other night. My husband went crazy over it when I made a Pepperoni Pizza with your red sauce recipe and then I made a Chicken Alfredo Pizza with your Alfredo Sauce. Wow! I now have stopped looking for the Perfect Pizza Dough recipe. Thank you, thank you!
Love it! I’m happy that you found your new go-to recipe. Thanks for the good feedback!
Thank you for the best all around recipes. Every one of your recipes has been wonderful!!
Thank you so much for sharing that with me, Sandy!
I have just subscribed so I haven’t had a chance yet to try anything. I received the tips in my inbox which was very helpful. Thank you. Your recipes look amazing and the photography is A1. Keep up the fantastic work!
A warm welcome to you! Thank you so much for subscribing!
Looking for a good recipe on how to make your own tortillas !!
Should do a show on that with corn and flour !! Also if your defrosting hamburger in microwave don’t put in middle set it to one side, and flip half way through defrost depending on time. works everytime!!
That’s a great idea and thanks for the great defrosting tip!
Hi, My wife and I have tred several of your recipes at home!! They all turned out great! The only exeption was the crockpot lasagna ! I think next time we make We will add more meat mixture in cause everyone said there wasn’t enough meat. 1lb ground beef didn’t seem to be quite enough. we liked the stroganoff and the tortellini soup was so good .
I’m so glad you are enjoying the recipes, I appreciate the feedback on the crockpot lasagna!
I made beef chilli is it supposed to be loose or thick mine is more like a soup
Natasha, I just love all your recipes, The way you do the video is awesome..I’ve tried so many recipes. Thank you
Deborah
I’m so glad you’re trying my recipes! I hope you make more and more of them soon!
Beef is a staple around here. Thank you for sharing all these. We love trying new recipes & all these look so good!
You’re so welcome, Kristyn. I hope you’ll love all the recipes that you will try!
I love to watch your videos . It’s easy to follow . I made the apple pie & my family loved it…
Thanks so much
You’re welcome, Gail. I hope you’ll love all the recipes that you will try!
Yes!!! I love this guide. I have a ton of frozen ground beef and will be trying out these recipes. I already tried the taco salad and it was amazing, can’t wait to make more dishes!
That’s just awesome! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review, Lily!
These all look delicious!! We use so much ground beef, so I will be trying these asap!
Yes! The perfect way to use that up!
I have been following you on Facebook for a year or so now and whenever I want to make something special I look you up! Every recipe I have tried has been a smash it with my family. We LOVE the sliders, salmon cakes, chicken pot pie, and apple pies are just some of our favorites… Thank you so much for sharing all your tricks and yummy meals!!!
That’s just awesome! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review!
I started freezing my ground beef by taking an amount enough to make one burger patti from each freezer snack bag. Drop the meat in the bag and pound it out with a rubber hammer so it’s flat. Meat thaws very quickly in a pot full of very warm water! Saves alot of time for thawing then cooking. Learned it a while back from a cooking tv show. Keep up the good work. Enjoy your YouTube program. Phil.
Thank you for sharing that with us Philip! I’m o happy you enjoyed that!
You are so right! When I finally had enough of frozen ground beef taking FOREVER to thaw, I started flattening it in the zipper bag. What a difference in time it took to fix a meal! And a fringe benefit of doing this is it saves room in the freezer!
Love your recipes. Tried your chicken fried rice and I love it. Thanks for all your good recipes Natasha.
You are most welcome, Linda. So great to hear that you are loving my recipes, I hope you love every recipe that you’re going to try!
You’re welcome Linda! I’m happy you enjoyed that!