Ground beef is a versatile and budget-friendly ingredient that can be used in countless dishes. From hearty casseroles to quick weeknight meals, these 26 recipes make it easy to whip up something delicious without breaking the bank. Whether you're cooking for a family or just yourself, these ideas will help you make the most of this staple. We know "cheap" can mean different things to different people, so here you will find recipes fitting a variety of budgets - but all without any unnecessarily expensive ingredients.
Instant Pot Cabbage Roll Soup
Instant Pot Cabbage Roll Soup is a quick and easy way to enjoy the flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls without the extra work. This hearty soup is packed with cabbage, lean ground beef, and rice, making it a filling meal. It's perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting and satisfying. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dish in no time. This soup is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Ground Beef Pasta is a family-friendly dish that everyone will enjoy. It comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a quick option for dinner. This pasta is loaded with spinach, tomatoes, and a nice blend of Italian spices. It's cheesy and satisfying, perfect for a busy evening. You'll definitely want to go back for more!
Sweet Potato & Ground Beef Skillet
This simple skillet dinner is packed with flavor from a homemade Tex-Mex spice mix that includes chili powder, cumin, and coriander. Everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. It's a quick option that works well for a family meal during the week. The combination of spices gives it a nice kick that everyone will enjoy. This dish is sure to satisfy and bring everyone to the table.
Instant Pot Chili
This recipe is all about making a tasty chili quickly and easily. Just toss everything into the Instant Pot, and you’ll have a hearty meal ready in under half an hour. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. The flavors come together nicely, giving you a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy. This chili is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Baked Meatballs
Baked meatballs are simple to prepare and made entirely with beef. This recipe requires just a few ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. They pair perfectly with spaghetti and marinara sauce or can be used in Italian meatball subs. These meatballs are a great option for a quick and satisfying meal. Enjoy them any night of the week!
Slow Cooker Stuffed Pepper Soup
This soup is perfect for anyone who enjoys stuffed peppers. It's a filling dish that warms you up and satisfies your hunger. Adding some cheese on top makes it even better, and it pairs nicely with breadsticks. This is a great option for a cozy dinner at home. You'll find it comforting and delicious.
Cabbage Lasagna
This meat lasagna is sure to please everyone at the table. Instead of traditional pasta, it uses cabbage leaves, making it a great option for those watching their carbs or gluten. The layers of cabbage are simple to prepare and pair perfectly with a hearty meat sauce. Topped with plenty of melted mozzarella, this dish is both satisfying and delicious. It's a great choice for a family dinner or any gathering.
Beef Tacos
These tacos are crispy and packed with tasty homemade ground beef. They come together quickly, making them a great choice for a family meal. With all your favorite toppings, everyone can customize their own. Ready in just 20 minutes, they’re perfect for busy nights. Enjoy a satisfying dinner that everyone will love.
3-Ingredient Sloppy Joes
A classic sloppy joe is a great choice for a family dinner. It's simple to make and everyone usually enjoys it. This dish combines ground beef with a tasty sauce, all served on a bun. It's perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying without a lot of work. Plus, it brings back memories of home-cooked meals that everyone can appreciate.
Spanish Rice with Ground Beef
Spanish Rice with Ground Beef is a simple and fast dinner option that you can prepare in around 30 minutes. This dish combines flavorful rice with seasoned ground beef, creating a filling meal. It's a one-pan recipe, which means less cleanup afterward. Everyone in the family is sure to enjoy it, making it a great choice for busy evenings. This is a satisfying meal that brings comfort and warmth to the table.
Meatballs and Rice
Baked meatballs and rice is a simple one-pot meal that combines beef meatballs with fluffy garlic rice and kale. This dish is satisfying and has all the components you need for a complete dinner. It comes together quickly, taking less than 50 minutes to prepare. Perfect for busy nights, it offers a hearty option without a lot of work. Enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Mexican Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed peppers are a quick and tasty meal that can be ready in just 45 minutes. This version skips the rice and focuses on bold tex-mex flavors, thanks to taco seasoning and a cheesy topping. They’re satisfying on their own or can be paired with tortilla chips for a little extra crunch. Perfect for busy nights, these peppers are sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy a comforting dish that’s simple to prepare and full of flavor.
Ground Beef & Rice Casserole
This simple Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is quick to prepare and cooks nicely on the stovetop. It's a go-to dinner option that I've been making for years, and even my picky toddler enjoys it. The combination of tender rice, fresh veggies, and seasoned ground beef creates a satisfying meal. Topped with cheese, it adds a delicious touch that everyone in the family will appreciate. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Meatballs without Breadcrumbs and Eggs
These meatballs are some of the best you'll ever try, and they don't even need breadcrumbs or eggs. 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's sure to please everyone. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Cottage Pie
This recipe features a comforting beef and vegetable filling, all topped with a creamy mashed potato layer. It’s similar to a classic cottage pie but comes together in just 30 minutes. With some easy-to-find ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying. It’s a great option for family dinners and is sure to please everyone at the table. You’ll find that this quick meal becomes a go-to favorite in no time.
Rigatoni al Forno
This rigatoni al forno with veggies is a great choice for dinner. It combines classic Italian flavors in a simple baked dish that everyone enjoys. The mix of textures and tastes makes it a comforting meal. It’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. This is a satisfying option for busy nights.
Cheesy Taco Skillet
An easy taco skillet that’s like a gourmet version of Hamburger Helper. Perfect to make on busy weeknights. Plus, you can make it as spicy (or not) as you want!
Meatball and Rice Casserole
Plain rice can get a bit dull after a while. Transforming it into a meatball and rice casserole is a fantastic way to spice things up. This dish is hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it a satisfying meal. It's easy to put together and perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy a comforting dinner that everyone will love!
Easy Taco Pockets
Easy Taco Pockets combine the delicious flavors of tacos into a convenient hand-held treat. They are perfect for busy weeknights and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Enjoy them fresh from the oven when the cheese is gooey and the crust is nice and crispy. These pockets are a fun way to enjoy a classic meal without the mess. They're great for a quick dinner or a tasty snack.
Homemade Hamburgers
This dish features juicy ground beef that’s cooked just right, perfect for piling on your favorite burger toppings. With just a few simple ingredients like ground beef, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, it’s easy to whip up. It’s a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy a classic that never goes out of style.
Slow Cooker Hamburger Minestrone
This soup is packed with fresh veggies, ground beef, and pasta. It's a filling and cozy dish that warms you up on chilly days. With everything you need in one bowl, it’s perfect for a quick dinner. The combination of flavors makes it a family favorite. Enjoy a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Slow Cooker Pizza and Pasta Soup
This meal is sure to please everyone in the family. It combines the delicious flavors of pizza with bow-tie pasta, creating a comforting dish. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be stored in the freezer for later. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, this soup is a great choice. Enjoy a warm bowl that brings everyone together.
Zucchini Beef Meatballs
These tasty beef meatballs are packed with zucchini for a healthy twist. You get a nice mix of veggies and meat in every bite. With just 15 minutes of prep time, they simmer in sauce until they're just right. This is a great option for dinner when you want something simple and satisfying. Enjoy a meal that’s both hearty and good for you!
Campbell's Tater Tot Casserole
This is a new family favorite for busy nights when you need something quick and easy. Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many delicious ways. Pair it with a side salad to create a complete meal that everyone will enjoy. It's a simple option that doesn't require much work but still delivers on flavor. You'll find this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Eggplant Moussaka
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, focusing instead on extra eggplant for a true Mediterranean flavor. It's a healthy option that doesn't require much effort to prepare. Perfect for a cozy family meal, this dish brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean with this simple yet delicious recipe.
Homemade Hot Dog Chili Sauce
This chili is perfect for adding to chili dogs or serving on an open-faced burger. It's hearty and full of flavor, with just the right kick of spice. Whether you're having a casual meal or a gathering, this dish fits right in. It's a comforting option that everyone will enjoy. You can easily whip it up without much effort.
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