27 Ground Beef Meals That Make Deciding What To Cook Way Easier

When the fridge feels empty and motivation feels even worse, having 27 ground beef meals to pick from saves the whole night. Dinner needs to happen whether anyone feels like cooking or not. Knowing there’s something easy and good to throw together keeps everything from falling apart at 6 p.m.

A plate of spaghetti topped with meat sauce and a fresh basil leaf, accompanied by a fork on the side.
Spaghetti Bolognese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Taco Soup

A bowl of red soup topped with avocado slices, sour cream, cilantro, sliced onions, corn, and shredded cheese.
Taco Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Warm and hearty, this one is great for when you want something simple but filling. Taco Soup brings together rich flavors that can brighten up the dinner table. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy nights. You’ll love how easy it is to scoop into a bowl and enjoy without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup

Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Close-up of a Beef Enchilada Tortellini dish topped with ground meat, corn, black beans, and chopped green onions.
Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Combining pasta with bold flavors is always a win, and that’s exactly what Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini does. It’s an exciting way to switch up your usual meal routine while keeping things simple. The cheesy richness pairs perfectly with beef in a way that feels like comfort food. Great for when you want something rewarding but fun.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Beef Chili

Two bowls of chili with kidney beans, meat, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and cilantro. A black spoon in one bowl. Additional chili flakes in a small dish nearby.
Beef Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Nothing beats a hearty bowl when you’re craving something classic, and Beef Chili delivers on that. It’s thick, comforting, and reminds you why simple meals are often the best. Perfect for sharing or even meal prepping, it stays fresh and flavorful. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or keeping it small, this one’s always a solid option.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Baked sweet potato topped with black beans, corn, avocado, sliced jalapeños, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro, with lime slices on the side.
Southwest Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet and tasty flavors pair perfectly in Southwest Sweet Potatoes, giving you something unique and full of balance. The meat blends perfectly with the soft spuds, creating a texture that’s hard to beat. It’s a great way to rethink what dinner can look like without overcomplicating things. Plus, it’s easy to dig into and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Cattle Drive Casserole

A slice of cheesy lasagna being lifted from a baking dish, topped with melted cheese and parsley.
Cattle Drive Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you love meals that come together in one dish, Cattle Drive Casserole checks all the boxes. It’s hearty, easy to share, and perfect for feeding a group or storing leftovers for later. Everything combines beautifully in the same pan for an effortless dinner. Great for when you don’t want extra dishes but still crave something cozy.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

Taco Meatloaf

Close-up of a slice of cheesy taco casserole topped with chopped tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeño slices on a white plate, reminiscent of the comforting flavors found in slow cooker taco meatloaf.
Taco Meatloaf. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bringing together two classics, Taco Meatloaf is perfect when you want something with a little twist. It mixes familiar flavors in a way that keeps things fresh without being complicated. It bakes up easily, and slicing into it feels like home. Good for when you want something reliable but not boring.
Get the Recipe: Taco Meatloaf

Copycat Smash Burger

Close-up of a copycat smash burger with lettuce, tomato, and a thick beef patty on a sesame seed bun.
Copycat Smash Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For burger lovers, Copycat Smash Burger gets right to the point. The crispy edges and juicy center make it a rewarding meal that’s easy to double up on. There’s no need for a drive-thru when you can recreate that flavor right at home. Great for nights when you crave something simple and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

Pizza Casserole

A close-up of a baked pasta dish with melted cheese, pepperoni slices, and herbs, showing a serving being lifted, revealing gooey cheese strands.
Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Combine two family favorites with Pizza Casserole, and you’ve got a dinner everyone can dig into. Layers of hearty beef and flavorful toppings make this dish easy and fun to pull together. It’s like pizza but with a twist that feels even more filling. Perfect for sharing or even prepping ahead for the week.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Cheeseburger Soup

A pot of cheesy potato and meat stew garnished with chopped parsley and crispy bacon.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Turning a burger into a soup might sound unusual, but Cheeseburger Soup is proof that it works. It’s creamy, hearty, and brings together flavors that just work in comforting ways. This is perfect for cold nights or when you want something a little unexpected but familiar. Easy to scoop up and enjoy with no extra fuss.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

A spoonful of stuffed pepper casserole with ground meat, red and green bell peppers, cheese, and rice, garnished with herbs.
Stuffed Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

All the flavor of stuffed peppers without the hassle, Stuffed Pepper Casserole might be your new go-to. Everything cooks together, making it simpler to serve and enjoy. It’s a great way to take a classic and make it weeknight-friendly. Perfect for busy days but doesn’t skimp on heartiness.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

A close-up of a savory meatloaf slice topped with a glossy sauce. The hearty meatloaf reveals visible chunks of vegetables like carrots and celery.
Easy Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Classic and reliable, Easy Meatloaf Recipe is perfect for when you don’t want to overthink dinner. Slice it up and serve with your favorite sides for a quick and flavorful meal. It’s comforting, easy to make, and always gets the job done. Whether you’re short on time or feeding a group, this fits right in.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Crunchwrap Supreme

Three folded tortillas filled with seasoned ground meat, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese.
Crunchwrap Supreme. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Skip the drive-thru and recreate a favorite with Crunchwrap Supreme. Everything stays wrapped up nicely for easy eating, making it great for busy nights. It’s flavorful and fun to make, giving you the same feel as fast food without leaving home. Perfect when you need something quick but rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layers of flavor make Homemade Lasagna a crowd favorite, whether it’s for a special dinner or any day you want something hearty. It’s a bit more effort but totally worth it. You’ll love how it combines rich ingredients into every slice, making it great for sharing. If you enjoy comfort food, this one should be on your list.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Beef Enchilada Casserole

Close-up of a cheesy dish with melted cheese, beef, beans, and scattered cilantro leaves. Red onion slices are visible in the foreground.
Beef Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Flavors come together perfectly in Beef Enchilada Casserole, giving you a rewarding option for dinner. It’s an easy way to enjoy bold flavors without standing over the stove for hours. Everything bakes up nicely, making it simple to serve and share. Ideal for those nights you want something hearty but low-effort.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Casserole

Copycat Big Mac Salad

Close-up of a salad featuring ground beef, sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and diced onions, topped with a creamy dressing.
Copycat Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Taking a favorite sandwich and turning it into something different, Copycat Big Mac Salad is a clever twist for burger fans. It’s lighter than the original but keeps all the flavors you know. Perfect for days when you want the same feel without the bun. It’s fun, refreshing, and easy to pull together without much stress.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

A close-up of Swedish meatballs covered in a creamy sauce, piled in a wooden bowl.
Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fans of those famous meatballs can’t go wrong with Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat). They’re tender, flavorful, and great alongside anything from pasta to simple sides. Creating this fan-favorite at home feels surprisingly easy, making it a great addition to your rotation. Whether for dinner or a snack, they’re sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce.
Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Mixing beef with bold flavors, Korean Burgers isn’t your average burger night. These patties bring something unique while staying simple to make. Perfect for switching up your usual routine without too much effort. A great choice when you want a homemade meal with a fresh twist.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Cheeseburger Pasta

A skillet filled with penne pasta topped with shredded cheese, ground beef, diced tomatoes, lettuce, and pickles—a delicious take on cheeseburger pasta.
Cheeseburger Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pasta becomes something special with Cheeseburger Pasta, giving you hearty flavor in every bite. It’s a fun spin that keeps familiar tastes alive but in a totally different way. Ideal for dinners that need to feel worthwhile without being too heavy. Toss it together and enjoy without much prep involved.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Pasta

Beef Tacos

Three beef tacos filled with ground meat, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, and sliced red onions.
Beef Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Switching up your taco night is easy with Beef Tacos, full of flavor but quick to pull together. There’s nothing complicated here, just a fun way to enjoy something reliable. Great for topping how you like, or letting everyone build their own version. Perfect for casual dinners or effortless meals with friends.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tacos

Spaghetti Casserole

A serving of cheesy baked spaghetti is being lifted with a utensil. The dish is topped with melted cheese and garnished with herbs.
Spaghetti Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bringing pasta into a casserole is always a fun idea, and that’s what Spaghetti Casserole is all about. It’s layered, baked to perfection, and perfect for sharing. Great for when spaghetti feels too simple but you don’t want to complicate dinner. Easy to prep and even easier to serve in a pinch.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Cheeseburger

A cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, and ketchup on a plate. A bowl of lettuce is in the background.
Cheeseburger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Stick with a classic that never goes wrong. Cheeseburger brings juicy, beefy goodness with minimal fuss. Whether you grill, pan-fry, or bake it, it stays as dependable as ever. Add your favorite sides and you’re good to go for any mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

Easy Tater Tot Casserole

A serving of tater tot casserole on a spoon.
Easy Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crisp tots meet beef in Easy Tater Tot Casserole, creating a quick dinner with crunch and flavor. It’s a fun twist on a casserole that’s worth trying out. Perfect for busy days when you still want something memorable at the table. A hit with both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Close-up of a serving of cheesy baked spaghetti with meat sauce, topped with fresh parsley, being lifted from a dish.
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Pasta takes on a rich spin with Million Dollar Spaghetti, combining layers into something that feels over-the-top in a great way. It’s baked for that comforting finish and serves well for families or gatherings. Not a quick meal, but one worth the effort when you have time to spare. Perfect for when you want dinner to feel a little extra special.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Cowboy Casserole

Close-up of a cowboy casserole in a white dish, showing layers of ground meat and vegetables topped with a golden-brown mashed potato crust, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cowboy Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Big flavors come together in Cowboy Casserole, making it hearty and filling for nights when you’re really hungry. It’s easy to make, combining beef with fun additions that make every bite worth it. You don’t have to spend all night in the kitchen to enjoy this. Perfect for feeding a crowd or just keeping leftovers easy for the week.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Casserole

Baked Beef Tacos

Two tacos with beef, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro on a white plate.
Baked Beef Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tacos take on a twist in Baked Beef Tacos, making them crispier but just as fun as regular ones. It’s an easy change that’s still full of flavor and great for any night of the week. Everyone gets their own portion, simplifying the whole dinner vibe. Ideal for when you want something fun without the extra prep.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

Taco Casserole

A bowl of taco casserole topped with melted cheese, black olives, tomatoes, and green onions, with a creamy dip in the background.
Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bringing taco night to a casserole dish, Taco Casserole lets everything bake together effortlessly. It’s a fun way to rethink your usual tacos while keeping flavors consistent. Perfect for sharing or meal prepping ahead. Great when you don’t want to spend time building individual tacos.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

Spaghetti Bolognese

A plate of spaghetti topped with meat sauce and a fresh basil leaf, accompanied by a fork on the side.
Spaghetti Bolognese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Keeping it simple yet pleasing, Spaghetti Bolognese is the kind of thing you never get tired of. Everything comes together easily with flavors that feel familiar and comforting. Easy to prep, serve, and enjoy without much cleanup involved. Perfect for busy nights or those meals where you just want something easy to trust.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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