29 Recipes That Show Ground Beef Is Your Dinner MVP

Ground beef never calls in sick, never flakes, and always shows up for dinner. These 29 recipes prove it’s the dependable MVP your meal plan didn’t know it needed. Whether it’s keeping things simple or showing off in a crowd-pleaser, it always delivers. Honestly, if ground beef had a LinkedIn, it’d list “problem solver” under skills.

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.

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 need a dinner that’s filling and easy, Cattle Drive Casserole has your back. It’s one of those meals that makes everyone feel full without fuss. Throw everything together, and you’ve got a hearty dish. No need to stress about what to make—this casserole does the job.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

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.

A good bowl of Beef Chili can turn any meal into something fulfilling. It’s the kind of dish you can make on the fly and still end up with something awesome. This chili packs a punch without any extra effort. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

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.

Everyone loves tacos, but Baked Beef Tacos turn it into something better. It’s a no-hassle dinner that still feels like a treat. These tacos come together with minimal work, so there’s no excuse not to make them. Perfect for busy nights when you still want something great.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

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.

If you’re craving something different, Korean Burgers are a game changer. These burgers bring new twists to an old favorite without overwhelming you. They’re easy to make and even easier to eat. Give it a try, and you’ll see what the hype is all about.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

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.

For anyone who loves a Big Mac, Copycat Big Mac Salad is the ultimate upgrade. It combines all the best parts of the fast-food classic without the bun. This salad keeps it simple while packing in tons of flavor. Who knew you could enjoy a Big Mac without the guilt?
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

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.

If you want a dish that impresses without being complicated, Million Dollar Spaghetti is the way to go. It’s rich, hearty, and perfect for any dinner. This casserole combines the goodness of spaghetti in a way that feels like a special meal. It’s the perfect comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Crunchwrap Supreme

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

Craving something crunchy and satisfying? Crunchwrap Supreme is here to save your dinner plans. It’s a fun twist on the usual wrap that makes for a satisfying meal. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

A platter of nachos topped with ground meat, melted cheese, sliced jalapeños, cherry tomatoes, black beans, red onions, cilantro, and dollops of sour cream. Lime wedges are on the side. — Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Need something quick but fun? Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos are perfect for those nights. This dish has all the cheesy, beefy goodness you want without all the work. You won’t believe how easy it is to pull together and still have everyone begging for more.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

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.

If pizza is always on the menu, try Pizza Casserole for a fresh spin. It’s everything you love about pizza but in casserole form. This dish delivers on flavor without the hassle of making individual pizzas. You’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Big Mac Crunchwrap

Close-up of a stack of folded tortillas filled with beef, melted cheese, lettuce, and onions on a white plate. — Big Mac Crunchwrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sometimes, you just need a Big Mac Crunchwrap to hit the spot. It’s like having all the flavors of a Big Mac wrapped up in a crunchy shell. This recipe makes it easier to enjoy without running to the drive-thru. It’s surprisingly simple but totally fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

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.

Looking for a classic with a twist? Spaghetti Casserole takes all your spaghetti favorites and makes them casserole-ready. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for those nights when you want something familiar but different. Everyone will love it.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Beef Tacos

Beef Tacos are the ultimate go-to for a quick and delicious meal. The great thing about them is that they’re simple but full of flavor. They’re perfect for a casual dinner, yet they never disappoint. If you haven’t made them recently, now’s the time.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tacos

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

When you want something hearty and easy, Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the way to go. It’s a one-pan dish that’s packed with all the comfort you want. This casserole is a great way to enjoy stuffed peppers without the hassle. Perfect for feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Cheeseburger

Sometimes, a Cheeseburger is all you need to get through the day. This simple meal brings everything you love about a cheeseburger without the mess. It’s quick, easy, and totally delicious. A perfect choice for when you want something familiar.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

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.

If you’re craving something warm and filling, Taco Soup is your answer. It’s a quick, easy meal that checks all the boxes. This soup is loaded with all the flavors you love in a taco, minus the mess. It’s a perfect choice for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup

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.

A great option for those who need a filling and quick dinner. Beef Enchilada Casserole is hearty and easy to pull together. It packs a punch with layers of flavor, making it the perfect weeknight meal. This dish will become a go-to when you’re looking for something to please everyone.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada 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.

Looking for a no-fuss meal? Easy Meatloaf Recipe is a classic that never disappoints. It’s simple but comforting, making it ideal for busy nights. You’ll find that this recipe quickly becomes a weeknight favorite. Bonus: the leftovers are even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

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.

Who doesn’t love a good cheeseburger? Cheeseburger Pasta combines the best of both worlds—cheeseburger meets pasta in a delicious, no-stress dinner. It’s filling, super easy, and full of flavors that the whole family will enjoy. This is your new go-to when you want comfort food in a snap.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Pasta

Easy Tater Tot Casserole

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

If you’re looking for a meal that requires little prep, Easy Tater Tot Casserole is the answer. It’s one of those dishes that everyone will ask for more of. Packed with flavor and topped with crispy tater tots, it’s comfort food in a casserole dish. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole

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.

Homemade Lasagna doesn’t have to be intimidating. This hearty dish can feed a crowd or give you leftovers for the next day. It’s the perfect combination of layers and tastes. Whether you’re serving it to guests or your family, it’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Cheeseburger Soup

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

This dish takes the best parts of a cheeseburger and turns it into a bowl of comfort. It’s rich and filling, with all the flavors you love. Cheeseburger Soup is perfect for those nights when you need something simple but satisfying. Your family will be asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

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.

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic that never gets old. It’s simple to make but packs plenty of flavors to keep everyone happy. With its rich, meaty sauce over perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dinner that hits the spot. You won’t be disappointed when you whip this one up.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

Cowboy Casserole

Looking for something hearty? Cowboy Casserole is a one-pan wonder that combines all your favorite ingredients into one. It’s filling, flavorful, and easy to make. This dish is perfect for when you need to get dinner on the table quickly.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Casserole

Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate. — Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

These tacos bring the fun of tacos to bite-sized portions. Mini Tacos are great for a casual dinner or as an appetizer. Quick to assemble and delicious, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to make these a regular at the table.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

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.

Southwest Sweet Potatoes are a flavorful twist on a classic. This recipe takes sweet potatoes to a whole new level with a spicy, savory kick. It’s the perfect side dish or a light main. You’ll find yourself making these more than you expect.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

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.

If you’re craving a little spice, Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini hits the spot. This dish combines the richness of enchiladas with the convenience of tortellini. It’s easy to make and full of flavor, perfect for a weeknight. You’ll love how quickly it comes together.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Taco Casserole

Taco Casserole is a classic comfort dish that takes everything you love about tacos and turns it into a hearty casserole. It’s quick, easy, and always a hit with the family. Perfect for when you want something filling without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

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.

If you’re a fan of those Swedish meatballs, Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat) brings them right to your kitchen. These meatballs are rich, savory, and perfect with a side of mashed potatoes. It’s an easy way to get that iconic flavor without the trip. You’ll be making these over and over again.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

Copycat Smash Burger

Who doesn’t love a smash burger? Copycat Smash Burger gives you that crispy, juicy perfection at home. It’s easy to make and will have you ditching the takeout. Perfect for when you want a burger with all the right flavors.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

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.