27 Ground Beef Recipes That Prove It Can Do It All

Ground beef is the underrated hero of so many meals, and these 27 recipes show exactly why it deserves more attention. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and filling or light and fresh, ground beef adapts effortlessly. From hearty comfort food to lighter options, it’s the kind of ingredient that never gets boring.

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.

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 looking for something with a bit of a kick, Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini blends rich flavors with a hint of heat to create a fusion of comforting pasta and zingy enchiladas. This crowd-pleaser is super easy and satisfies your cravings in one bite. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

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.

Baked Beef Tacos are delicious and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine gooey melted toppings on crispy shells with tasty ground beef inside. Simple, quick, and packed with flavor, these tacos are great for kids and adults alike. They’ll quickly become a favorite on taco nights.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

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.

When you need comfort food done right, Cowboy Casserole brings together hearty beef, creamy layers, and a crispy topping for a homestyle meal. It’s like having a cozy blanket in a baking dish, perfect for lazy weekends or chilly evenings. Hearty ingredients come together in one balanced dish, making cleanup a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Casserole

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.

Looking for something warm and filling? Taco Soup checks all the boxes with its layered flavors and heartiness, ideal for a cozy meal. It combines the essence of tacos in a bowl of pure warmth and comfort. The best part is it can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Taco 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.

A classic, Spaghetti Bolognese mixes rich, tasty ground beef with perfectly cooked pasta, giving you a comforting dish that never gets old. It’s simple yet rewarding and always reliable for weekday dinners. Every forkful is a reminder of why this dish remains a favorite around the world.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

Crunchwrap Supreme

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

Ever crave something from your favorite fast-food spot but want to make it at home? Enter Crunchwrap Supreme, bringing together crunchy layers and rich, tasty beef in one fun package. It’s a perfect way to treat yourself without leaving the house. Ideal for those nights when you need nostalgia and flavor in one bite.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

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.

Take your love for traditional meatloaf and mix it up with tacos in Taco Meatloaf. It’s a playful twist on comfort food that brings you hearty servings with just the right touch of taco flavor. Easy to make and always a hit, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. Who knew meatloaf could be this fun?
Get the Recipe: Taco Meatloaf

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.

Few things are as comforting as a bowl of Beef Chili. Warm, hearty, and full of rich, meaty goodness, it’s great for those days when you need a worthwhile meal that sticks to your ribs. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or packing away leftovers for later. It’s a dish that invites everyone to gather around and dig in.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

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.

Simple yet flavorful, Easy Meatloaf Recipe brings you back to a hearty, home-cooked meal with minimal fuss. It’s a go-to recipe when you need something reliable and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. With a perfect balance of moisture and flavor, it’s no wonder this classic remains a favorite for many households.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

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’re bored of regular spaghetti, give Spaghetti Casserole a shot for a gratifying change. Combining layers of pasta and hearty ground beef, this dish is super easy to put together and makes dinner time fuss-free. It’s a comforting mix of familiar taste with a fun twist. Perfect for weeknights and left over days alike.
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.

Everyone loves a good Cheeseburger now and then. Juicy, flavor-packed ground beef paired with all its classic companions, it’s a craving that’s easy to satisfy at home. Throw in a few quick elements to complete your meal, and you’ve got yourself a crowd-pleaser. Simple, delicious, and always a hit on the grill or stove.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

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.

For those who want comfort food with a healthy twist, Stuffed Pepper Casserole brings the best of both worlds. It’s all the flavors of stuffed peppers in a simple, one-pot dish that’s great for busy nights. Easy, flavorful, and packed with goodness, you’ll find it a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper 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.

If you’re in the mood for something warm and filling, Cheeseburger Soup combines the best of a hearty burger with the comfort of a soup. Rich and creamy, it’s a unique twist on a classic dish that’s perfect for chilly nights. It’s easy to make and always hits the spot. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy those cheeseburger flavors in a new form.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

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 your love for pizza and casseroles with Pizza Casserole. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy all your favorite pizza flavors in a hearty, baked dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a family dinner. Easy to prep ahead and great for leftovers, this is one dish you’ll come back to again and again.
Get the Recipe: Pizza 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.

Craving a juicy burger? Copycat Smash Burger brings the fast-food favorite to your kitchen with its flavorful, smashed beef patties. You’ll get that rewarding crispiness and classic burger taste without heading to the drive-thru. Perfect for a quick meal at home whenever the craving strikes.
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.

Try Cattle Drive Casserole when you need something hearty and worthwhile. Layers of beef and a creamy finish make it a hit for dinner all week long. Simple to prepare and loaded with flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort. Great for those who enjoy comfort food that’s easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

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.

Everyone loves Beef Tacos. Fresh and bursting with flavor, they’re perfect for any taco night. Quick to put together and easy to enjoy, you can customize them to suit your preferences. A versatile option that’s always reliable for feeding a crowd or a quick family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Beef 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.

Mix up your side dishes with Southwest Sweet Potatoes and ground beef for a tasty combo. The flavors blend perfectly, giving you a dish that’s both filling and fun. Easy to put together and great for meal prepping. It’s an unexpected twist that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

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.

Ever wanted a Big Mac with a crunch? Big Mac Crunchwrap brings together the iconic flavors of the classic burger in a playful, crunchy wrap. Perfect for those days when you need comfort food with a twist. It’s easy and super enjoyable to make at home.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

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 the heartiness of a burger with the comfort of pasta with Cheeseburger Pasta. It’s packed with flavor and easy to whip up for a weeknight meal. Perfect balance of elements, making every bite rewarding without any extra mess. Ideal for a quick dinner that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Pasta

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.

Enjoy all the flavors of enchiladas in a convenient form with Beef Enchilada Casserole. Layers of flavorful beef and rewarding textures make it a hearty choice for dinner. Easy to prepare and great for leftovers too. Perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Casserole

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.

Mix up burger night with Korean Burgers, which bring a burst of flavor to your meal. They’re juicy and packed with unique elements that make dinner interesting. Great for those wanting to try something new without leaving comfort behind. It’s an easy way to add variety to your meal plans.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

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.

There’s nothing quite like classic Homemade Lasagna. Rich layers of beef with gooey elements make it a comforting and filling dish. A bit more work, but the reward is totally worth it. Perfect for family dinners and makes amazing leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Easy Tater Tot Casserole

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

Craving something fun and simple? Easy Tater Tot Casserole combines tasty ground beef with crispy tots for a deliciously easy meal. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it great for family dinners. Prep, bake, and you’re done with minimal cleanup.
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.

Luxury meets simplicity in Million Dollar Spaghetti. Layers of pasta and ground beef come together in a creamy combination that tastes absolutely amazing. Ideal for when you need a special dinner with minimal fuss. Great for family gatherings or just when you want that top-notch taste at home.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

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.

Bring the Ikea experience home with Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat). Rich, tasty meatballs combined with a creamy sauce make for a comforting dish. Easy to prepare and pairs well with many sides, perfect for family meals. You’ll love the homemade taste without the trip to the store.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

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 a lighter twist on the classic, Copycat Big Mac Salad gives you all the flavors you love without the bun. It’s refreshing and easy to put together, perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. Enjoy the familiar taste in a new, lighter way that’s still worthwhile. Great for when you want something quick and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

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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