25 Ground Beef Recipes To Save Dinner Tonight

Running out of dinner ideas? No problem—25 ground beef recipes have got things covered with meals that are quick, easy, and impossible to mess up. These options work for those nights when cooking feels like a chore but takeout isn’t an option. With plenty of variety, nobody will be stuck with boring meals that feel like a compromise.

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

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.

If you love spaghetti but crave something a bit different, Spaghetti Casserole is your go-to dish. It takes familiar flavors and pairs them together in a baked format that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers. Once you try it, it might just become a regular in your meal rotation. Ideal for a cozy family dinner, it’s both filling and comforting.
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.

Craving something classic? A Cheeseburger never disappoints. It’s all about that juicy beef paired with melty cheese, all held together by a soft bun. Perfect for a quick dinner or a casual weekend meal, it’s a staple that everyone from kids to adults can enjoy. Customize it with your favorite toppings for that personalized touch.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

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.

For a fun twist on a familiar flavor, try Big Mac Crunchwrap. It combines the iconic Big Mac taste with the crispy exterior of a crunchwrap. This dish is surprisingly easy to whip up for a movie night or a gathering with friends. Not only is it playful, it satisfies that craving for something hearty and unique.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

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.

When you’re feeling like a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor, Copycat Big Mac Salad is the solution. It borrows the signature Big Mac flavors and tosses them into a salad format. This dish is great for those who want the taste of a burger with the freshness of greens. It’s a clever way to shake up your dinner routine.
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.

Bringing home a taste of Sweden, Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat) offers that comforting flavor we all know and love from the popular furniture store’s cafe. They’re ideal for an evening where you want something both hearty and comforting. Serve them over a bed of fluffy rice or with some pasta for a fulfilling meal anytime.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

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.

Imagine spaghetti, but upgraded. Million Dollar Spaghetti is richer and creamier than your standard pasta dish. This recipe promises to be a showstopper at any dinner table. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want to impress your guests without too much fuss. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

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.

On chilly evenings, nothing beats a hearty bowl of Beef Chili. It’s packed with rich flavors that simmer together to create a comforting dish. Great for game day or a hearty family meal, it’s both warming and fulfilling. Serve it with some crusty bread or over rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Crunchwrap Supreme

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

Taco night just got an upgrade with Crunchwrap Supreme. This dish takes all the beloved taco fillings and wraps them in a crispy, handheld package. It’s perfect for those who love a bit of crunch with their meals. Kids especially love the fun shape and all the flavorful layers.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

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.

If you want the taste of tacos but the ease of a casserole, Taco Casserole has you covered. It layers all the taco essentials in one dish that’s easy to serve and even easier to enjoy. It’s a weeknight lifesaver when you need a tasty meal on the table fast. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy those classic taco flavors in a new way.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

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.

Combine your love for burgers and pasta with Cheeseburger Pasta. This dish brings together hearty pasta and juicy beef in a cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for when you can’t decide between two favorites. Ideal for a no-fuss dinner, it offers comfort in every bite and is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Pasta

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.

When you want your tacos to have a bit more crunch, Baked Beef Tacos are the answer. Baking the tacos in the oven crisps up the shells and melds the flavors together beautifully. This method is especially good for serving a crowd, making taco night a little more special. Plus, it adds a nice twist to the traditional taco setup.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

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.

Nothing says home-cooked meal quite like a Homemade Lasagna. This dish is all about layers of flavor from meat, cheese, and pasta. It’s perfect for a Sunday dinner or feeding a large group. The leftovers are even better the next day, making it a practical choice for meal prepping.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

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.

For a different take on traditional soups, Taco Soup packs all the punchy flavors of a taco into a comforting bowl. It’s easy to make and even easier to make it your own with various toppings. Whether you’re looking for something new for your soup repertoire or need a simple meal, this dish delivers on flavor and comfort.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup

Easy Tater Tot Casserole

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

Easy Tater Tot Casserole is a favorite for busy nights. It combines ground beef with a crispy tater tot topping for a texture that’s both crunchy and savory. This dish is a crowd-pleaser in family settings and casual get-togethers. It’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it perfect for those nights when time is of the essence.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole

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 like a little spice and a lot of flavor, Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini will not disappoint. This dish combines the heat of enchiladas with the hearty addition of tortellini, making each bite exciting and fulfilling. It’s a fantastic choice for a lively dinner with friends or a comforting meal on a cool evening.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

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.

Digging into Cowboy Casserole feels like a hearty meal at a Western ranch. It’s robust, filling, and packed with flavors that remind you of open plains and home-cooked meals. Perfect for feeding a big family or a group of friends, it’s as fulfilling as it is easy to make. Serve it up at your next gathering for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy 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.

Sometimes, you just need the classics, and Easy Meatloaf Recipe delivers just that. This dish is straightforward and always hits the spot with its homely flavor. It’s great for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Serve it with mashed potatoes and green beans for that perfect classic dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

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.

Looking for something a bit more adventurous? Southwest Sweet Potatoes are your ticket to a flavor-packed meal that combines sweet and spicy. This dish is a wonderful twist on traditional dinner options, offering a bold taste that’s as enjoyable as it is unique. It’s great for anyone looking to add some pizzazz to their dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

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.

If you love stuffed peppers but need something simpler, Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a fantastic alternative. It takes all the beloved flavors of stuffed peppers and turns them into an easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for weeknights. This dish is not only practical but also full of flavors that comfort and satisfy.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Casserole

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.

Why go out when you can make a Copycat Smash Burger at home? This recipe replicates the juicy, crispy edges of your favorite restaurant burger. It’s perfect for grilling season or any time you want a superior burger experience at home. Grab your buns and your favorite toppings, and get ready to enjoy one of the best burgers you’ve ever made.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

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.

For a dish that’s as fun to say as it is to eat, try Cattle Drive Casserole. This hearty meal will fill you up after a long day. It’s packed with ingredients that all come together to offer a comforting and delicious experience. It’s especially perfect for larger gatherings or a family dinner that calls for something fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

Slow Cooker 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.
Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mix up your meatloaf routine with Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf. This dish combines the ease of a slow cooker with the bold flavors of a taco. It’s a great way to spice up dinner without putting in extra work. Just set it in the morning and come home to a delicious meal ready to be enjoyed.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf

Cheeseburger Soup

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

When it’s cold outside, Cheeseburger Soup brings the comfort of a cheeseburger into a spoonable treat. This dish is creamy, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s a novel way to enjoy the tastes of a burger in a comforting bowl of soup. Ideal for a light yet fulfilling meal, it’s a hit with both kids and adults.
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 dish that’s beloved by families everywhere. This robust sauce over spaghetti makes for an ideal hearty meal that feeds the soul. It’s perfect for a fulfilling dinner that brings everyone to the table. Rich in flavor, it’s a dish that goes well with a side of garlic bread for dipping.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

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.

There’s nothing like the simple pleasure of Beef Tacos on taco night. With juicy beef and a customizable array of toppings, these tacos are always a hit. They’re quick to make, fun to assemble, and even more enjoyable to eat. Whether it’s a regular Tuesday or a special occasion, beef tacos make it better.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tacos

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.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

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