• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
always use butter
  • Recipes
  • Air Fryer Resources
  • Subscribe!
  • About
  • Contact
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Air Fryer Resources
  • Subscribe!
  • About
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • Air Fryer Resources
    • Subscribe!
    • About
    • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home » Recipe Roundups

    23 Wholesome Ground Beef Recipes That Will Transform Your Weeknight Meals

    By Emmeline Kemperyd on July 1, 2025, updated June 3, 2025 - Leave a Comment

    Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can turn any weeknight dinner into a satisfying meal. From classic burgers to hearty soups, these 23 recipes offer a variety of flavors and styles that are sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you're in the mood for something comforting or a bit more adventurous, there's a ground beef dish here for every occasion.

    Slow Cooker Cabbage Rolls

    SLOW COOKER CABBAGE ROLLS.
    Photo credit: The Food Blog.

    Slow Cooker Cabbage Rolls are a great twist on a classic comfort food. You can come home to a warm and satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. These rolls are packed with flavor and are sure to please everyone at the table. They’re filling and nutritious, making them a perfect choice for a hearty meal. Enjoy a simple yet delicious dinner that everyone will love.

    Save This Recipe Form

    Want to save this recipe?

    Enter your email below & we'll send it straight to your inbox. Plus you’ll get more great recipes from us each week!

    Get the recipe

    Air Fryer Meatballs

    A stack of meatballs.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    These air fryer meatballs are a great option for a quick meal. They come together easily without using eggs or breadcrumbs, and you can have them ready in less than an hour. With a Swedish twist, these meatballs are juicy and tender, making them a standout choice. They look fantastic too, better than any meatballs you might have made before. Perfect for summer dinners, these meatballs are sure to please everyone.

    Get the recipe

    Cheeseburger Soup

    CHEESEBURGER SOUP.
    Photo credit: Wholesome Yum.

    Cheeseburger soup is a warm and satisfying dish that brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a bowl. It's creamy and hearty, making it a great choice for a quick meal. In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious soup that feels comforting and nourishing. This recipe is not only easy to make but also has some healthy ingredients mixed in. Perfect for a summer dinner, it’s a fun twist on a familiar favorite.

    Get the recipe

    Ground Beef Tacos

    Ground beef tacos with salsa.
    Photo credit: House of Yumm.

    Classic ground beef tacos are a simple and satisfying meal. They come with homemade taco meat stuffed into crispy taco shells. You can add all your favorite toppings to make them just the way you like. This dish is perfect for a quick family dinner. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great choice for busy evenings.

    Get the recipe.

    Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs in Tangy Sauce

    Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs in Tangy Sauce.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

    These meatballs with rice are simmered in a delicious sweet and tangy sauce that brings back fond memories. They are simple to make and perfect for a summer meal. The combination of flavors is satisfying and comforting. This dish is great for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Enjoy a taste of nostalgia with every bite.

    Get the Recipe

    Eggplant Moussaka

    Eggplant Moussaka with Lamb.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Eggplant Moussaka is a hearty dinner packed with vegetables and ground beef, all topped with plenty of cheese. This recipe skips the potatoes and Bechamel sauce, using more eggplant instead. It brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table while being healthy and easy to prepare. Perfect for summer meals, it’s a satisfying option that everyone will enjoy. Enjoy a comforting dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious.

    Get the recipe

    Smash Burgers

    Easy Smash Burger Recipe
    Photo Credit: Midwest Foodie.

    Burgers can be enjoyed any time of the year, not just in the summer. Even if you don’t have a grill, you can still make delicious burgers right on your stove. These smash burgers are cooked in a hot cast iron skillet with butter, giving them a nice crispy texture. With just ground beef and salt, they’re easy to prepare and have that classic buttery flavor. You can have a tasty dinner ready in about 15 minutes.

    Get the recipe

    Air Fryer Meatballs

    Air fryer meatballs with sauce.
    Photo Credit: Midwest Foodie.

    Air fryer meatballs are quick and easy to make, taking only 30 minutes with ingredients you probably already have. They turn out juicy and tender inside, while the outside gets a nice crisp. This dish is perfect for summer meals when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. Enjoy them as a main dish or toss them in a salad for a lighter option. These meatballs are a great choice for any casual gathering or family dinner.

    Get the recipe

    Instant Pot Bolognese

    A bowl of instant pot bolognese served over pasta.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This Instant Pot bolognese is a great way to enjoy a classic pasta sauce without spending hours in the kitchen. It combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients, making it a satisfying meal. Using just a few basic pantry items, you can whip this up quickly. It's perfect for busy summer nights when you want something delicious but easy to prepare. Enjoy a comforting dish that everyone will love.

    Get the recipe

    Skillet Ground Beef and Potatoes

    Skillet Ground Beef and Potatoes
    Photo Credit: Foxes Love Lemons.

    "Meat and Potatoes" is a classic combination that never disappoints. This dish is easy on the wallet and can be made all in one skillet, so there's no need to worry about extra side dishes. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that brings comfort and flavor to the table. Perfect for summer, this recipe is great for busy nights when you want something hearty without spending too much time in the kitchen. Enjoy a filling dinner that everyone will love.

    Get the recipe

    Mexican Beef & Rice Skillet

    MEXICAN BEEF AND RICE SKILLET.
    Photo credit: Cook Dinner Tonight.

    This Mexican beef and rice skillet is a straightforward dinner option that you can make in just one pan. It transforms ground beef into a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. With a mix of spices and ingredients, it’s full of flavor and satisfying. Perfect for summer nights, this dish is both quick to prepare and easy to clean up. It’s a great choice for busy evenings when you want something tasty without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the recipe

    Crockpot Enchiladas

    Crockpot Enchiladas.
    Photo Credit: An Edible Mosaic.

    Crockpot enchiladas are a simple and tasty dish that brings together ground beef, veggies, enchilada sauce, spices, corn tortillas, and cheese. This meal cooks all in one pot, making it a breeze to prepare. It's a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to get ahead with meal prep. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. Enjoy a hearty dinner with minimal effort!

    Get the Recipe

    Homemade Hamburgers

    air fryer hamburger.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish features juicy ground beef that’s cooked just right, making it a great option for summer meals. It pairs well with your favorite burger toppings, allowing for plenty of customization. With just a few simple ingredients like ground beef, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, it’s easy to prepare. This is a good dinner choice for warm evenings when you want something satisfying. Enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love.

    Get the recipe

    Slow Cooker Hot Chili

    Slow Cooker Hot Chili.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

    This chili packs a punch with serrano peppers and is loaded with flavor from crispy bacon. It's a hearty dish that warms you up and satisfies your hunger. Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to please everyone. The combination of spices and ingredients creates a rich and enjoyable meal. Enjoy this chili as a filling option for any occasion.

    Get the Recipe

    Low FODMAP Burgers

    A cheeseburger without a bun on top.
    Photo credit: FODMAP Everyday.

    Ground beef is perfect for creating delicious burgers that are juicy and satisfying. Cooking them on the grill outside adds a nice smoky flavor, but you can also use a cast iron pan or grill pan indoors if the weather isn't great. These burgers are easy to prepare and are great for summer gatherings or casual meals. They bring a hearty touch to any barbecue or picnic. Enjoying a good burger is always a hit, whether you're with family or friends.

    Get the recipe

    Ground Beef & Cabbage Skillet

    Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet.
    Photo credit: Real Food Real Deals.

    A one pot ground beef and cabbage skillet is a simple and healthy dinner option. It comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. The combination of flavors is really enjoyable and satisfying. This dish is great for summer meals when you want something quick and nutritious. It's a great way to use ground beef in a fresh and tasty way.

    Get the recipe

    Mexican Stuffed Bell Peppers

    Mexican Stuffed Bell Peppers without Rice
    Photo Credit: always use butter.

    Stuffed peppers are a quick and tasty meal that can be ready in just 45 minutes. This recipe skips the rice and focuses on bold tex-mex flavors, which you can achieve with either homemade or store-bought taco seasoning. Topped with cheese, these peppers are satisfying on their own or can be paired with tortilla chips for a little extra crunch. They’re perfect for summer dinners when you want something hearty but not too heavy. Enjoy these flavorful stuffed peppers any night of the week.

    Get the recipe

    Slow Cooker Land Your Man Baked Beans

    Slow Cooker Land Your Man Baked Beans.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

    Ground beef, bell peppers, and onions come together to create a satisfying meal. The right seasonings really bring out the flavors and make this dish stand out. It's a simple recipe that doesn't require much effort. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. This is a great option when you want something hearty and delicious.

    Get the Recipe

    Slow Cooker Hamburger Minestrone

    Slow Cooker Hamburger Minestrone.
    Photo Credit: Valerie's Kitchen.

    This soup is loaded with fresh vegetables, ground beef, and pasta. This hearty, comforting soup is a complete meal in itself!

    Get the Recipe

    Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps

    Ground beef lettuce wraps.
    Photo credit: Food Folks and Fun.

    Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps are a simple and delicious option for a weeknight meal. They come together in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy evenings. Using fresh lettuce leaves as a wrap adds a nice crunch and keeps things light. This dish is satisfying and full of flavor, ideal for summer dining. Enjoy a healthy and fun way to serve ground beef with these wraps.

    Get the recipe

    Cowboy Stew

    Cowboy Stew
    Photo Credit: Kitchen Fun with My 3 Sons.

    Cowboy Stew is a great choice when you need to feed a crowd without much effort. This dish combines ground beef, smoked sausage, potatoes, beans, and a variety of vegetables, creating a filling meal. It's perfect for summer gatherings or any time you want something hearty. Everyone will enjoy this comforting stew, and it’s sure to satisfy even the biggest appetites. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a meal that brings people together.

    Get the recipe

    Egg Roll in a Bowl

    Egg roll in a bowl.
    Photo credit: Kitchen Fun with my Three Sons.

    Egg Roll in a Bowl features juicy ground beef, crisp greens, and a hint of soy sauce, creating a simple and tasty dish that’s great for dinner. This meal combines fresh ingredients with a mix of spices, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. It’s a healthy option that’s low in carbs but full of flavor. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe is quick to prepare and satisfying. You’ll find it’s a great addition to your weeknight meals.

    Get the recipe

    Meatballs without Breadcrumbs and Eggs

    Meatballs without Breadcrumbs and Eggs
    Photo Credit: always use butter.

    These meatballs are some of the best you'll ever try. They're simple to prepare and can be ready in less than an hour. You can cook them on the stove, in an air fryer, or in the oven, depending on what you prefer. The result is a juicy and flavorful meatball that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for summer meals, these meatballs are a great addition to any dinner.

    Get the recipe

    More Recipe Roundups

    • Macaroni salad.
      21 Prep-Ahead Dishes That Will Steal the Show This 4th of July
    • Cheeseburger tater tot casserole.
      24 Layer and Bake Ground Beef Dinners We’re Making Every Week
    • John Wayne casserole.
      20 Stupid Simple Crockpot Dinners That Will Change Your Weeknight Routine
    • Pesto pasta bake.
      26 Cheap & Easy Casseroles That Will Transform Your Weeknight Meals

    About Emmeline Kemperyd

    Emmeline Kemperyd is a writer, food blogger, recipe creator and food photographer and the founder of alwaysusebutter.com. She has 20+ years experience creating and simplifying recipes so they taste good, and are quick, easy, and approachable. She is a regular contributor to MSN and her work has been featured by The Guardian, Well+Good, Vulture, SheKnows, Good Men Project, and The Feed Feed, among others.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    No Comments

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    Hi, I'm Emmeline! I love tasty food, but I'm always in a hurry. And I have the quick and easy recipes to prove it!

    More about me →

    Popular Recipes

    • Sliced air fryer roast beef.
      Air Fryer Roast Beef
    • top down view of a tortellini casserole
      Cheesy Tortellini Casserole with Spinach
    • Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake [Dump and bake!]
    • sliced rib eye steak topped with salt
      How to Cook a Rib Eye Steak Without a Cast Iron Skillet (3 Methods)

    Popular Articles

    • Hamburger minestrone.
      23 Wholesome Ground Beef Recipes That Will Transform Your Weeknight Meals
    • Chicken tikka masala.
      19 Slow Cooker Dinners That Will Make Your Kids Cheer
    • 23 Deliciously Simple Dinners You Can Set and Forget
    • A broccoli casserole.
      Make Meal Prep Easy with These Vegetable-Packed Dishes

    We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

    All affiliate links are always marked with "*" or "affiliate".

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    A collage of sites where always use butter content has been featured.

    About

    • About
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms and Conditions
    • Disclaimer
    • Disclosures
    • Editorial Policy
    • Accessibility Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up!

    Contact

    • Contact
    • info@alwaysusebutter.com
    • Pink Giraffe Ventures AB, Runstens Byväg 51, 147 91 Grödinge, Sweden
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest

    Copyright © 2018-2025 Pink Giraffe Ventures AB