One Ingredient, So Many Possibilities—29 Ground Beef Recipes To Make Now

You don’t need a long list of stuff when you’ve got ground beef and a little direction. These 29 keep it simple but still manage to feel like real meals, not just whatever’s left in the fridge. It’s comfort food without the overthinking. Just meat, heat, and something that tastes like effort.

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.

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.

You don’t need to overthink dinner when you’ve got something like Baked Beef Tacos. They check all the boxes—easy, crunchy, and everyone grabs them without asking what’s inside. Great for feeding a crowd or just skipping a boring dinner. They also reheat like a dream, which is a small win on its own.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

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.

Nothing fancy here, just solid comfort from Easy Meatloaf Recipe that actually makes you want seconds. It holds its shape, doesn’t fall apart, and has that home-style feel even if you’re not trying. Serve it with whatever’s in your fridge—it works. You’ll probably want to make a sandwich with the leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

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’re into no-fuss dinners that feel like a full meal, Cattle Drive Casserole does the job. Layers keep everything in one spot, which makes serving less of a mess. It’s also one of those meals that hits the spot after a long day. You could even call it dinner that looks like you tried harder than you did.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive 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.

You get the cozy part of comfort food without even leaving home when you make Swedish Meatballs. Their small size makes them easy to serve and even easier to keep popping onto your plate. Good for meals or snacking—your call. Also, they don’t need a mountain of extras to work.
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.

When you’re craving a burger but don’t want to build one, Copycat Big Mac Salad skips the bun and keeps the fun. It’s got the right combo of crisp, rich, and tangy. Works great in a bowl or wrapped in something if you’re in a rush. Best part? It actually tastes like what it’s named after.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

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.

For those times when you want something bite-sized and bursting with flavor, Mini Tacos are the answer. They’re perfect for parties or a fun family dinner that everyone can customize. Just because they’re small doesn’t mean they don’t pack a punch. Think of them as a tiny taco party on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

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.

It’s hard to mess up Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos, which is part of their magic. They’re loud, messy, and perfect for sharing—just set it down and watch people grab. Every bite’s got a little of everything. Also, cleanup is surprisingly chill.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

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.

Think comfort food with less effort and that’s pretty much Cheeseburger Pasta. It comes together fast but still feels like something that took longer. Kid-friendly, adult-approved, and somehow better the next day. You’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Pasta

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.

Pizza Casserole is what happens when pizza and pasta decide to team up. You still get the fun part of pizza, just baked and bubbling in one dish. Great for when you can’t decide what you’re craving. It also packs up well for leftovers or lunch.
Get the Recipe: Pizza 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.

For a pasta dish that’s both simple and sophisticated, Spaghetti Bolognese hits the spot. It’s all about slow-simmered flavors and hearty enjoyment. Serve it up for a meal that feels special without any of the hassle. It’s a classic for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

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.

If you love fast food with a twist, Big Mac Crunchwrap is your new go-to. It wraps up the iconic burger flavors in a crunchy exterior. Perfect for eating on the go or whenever you need a worthwhile crunch. It’s a creative take on a fast-food favorite.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

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 combines ground beef and tater tots in a dish that’s comfort food heaven. It’s a no-fuss meal that’s great for busy nights. With layers of flavor and that irresistible tater tot topping, it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation. Plus, kids love it, making dinner time a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot 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.

When you need warmth and spice, Taco Soup is there to save the day. Imagine your favorite taco ingredients simmered into a delicious soup. It’s easy to make and even easier to customize with toppings. Grab a bowl and warm up from the inside out.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup

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.

Look no further for a rewarding, healthy twist: Southwest Sweet Potatoes. Stuffed with seasoned beef and veggies, it’s a meal that packs a nutritional punch. It’s colorful, flavorful, and has just enough spice. These are great for an impressive dinner without the heaviness.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Taco Pasta Salad

A bowl of fusilli pasta mixed with ground beef, black beans, chopped tomatoes, and herbs, garnished with lime wedges.
Taco Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Taco Pasta Salad brings a fun twist to pasta salad with a taco-flavored kick. It’s the perfect dish for picnics or potlucks, where you want to bring something a little different. It’s hearty, flavorful, and sure to be a hit. Think taco night meets pasta salad—what’s not to love?
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

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.

Love stuffed peppers but hate the hassle? Stuffed Pepper Casserole deconstructs the classic into an easy-to-make dish. It’s got all the flavors you love, baked together in one convenient casserole. It’s a fuss-free way to enjoy a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper 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.

Nothing beats Beef Tacos for a quick, delicious meal that everyone can customize to their liking. They’re the go-to for a fun, build-your-own dinner experience. Just serve the beef with your favorite taco fixings, and let everyone create their masterpiece. It’s a simple way to satisfy a variety of tastes.
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.

Turn spaghetti night into something you can slice with Spaghetti Casserole. It’s got the pasta, the sauce, and the cheese all baked into one delicious dish. This casserole makes serving dinner a breeze, and the leftovers are even better the next day. It’s spaghetti taken to the next level of convenience and taste.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti 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.

Combine the appeal of meatloaf with the spice of tacos in Taco Meatloaf. This dish brings a flavorful twist to a traditional meatloaf, making it anything but boring. Serve it up with some sides, and you’ve got a meal that will break the monotony. It’s a comfort food mash-up that makes dinner exciting again.
Get the Recipe: Taco Meatloaf

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.

For a hearty, western-inspired dish, Cowboy Casserole doesn’t disappoint. Packed with beef, beans, and a whole lot of comfort, it’s like a hug in casserole form. It’s great for feeding a hungry crowd or just when you’re in the mood for something worthwhile. Throw it together, bake, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy 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.

Beef Chili is that warm, hearty dish perfect for when you need a little heat. With ground beef at its heart, it’s rich, flavorful, and can be as spicy as you like. It’s one of those meals that’s great for gatherings or a cozy night in. Plus, it just gets better as leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

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.

This is that labor of love that’s always worth the effort. Layers of pasta, cheese, and meat sauce come together in a way that’s hard to resist. Homemade Lasagna is perfect for a Sunday dinner or any time you want to feed a lot of mouths with something everyone loves. It’s a classic dish that never fails to impress.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Crunchwrap Supreme

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

When you’re craving something fast-food-inspired but homemade, Crunchwrap Supreme is your answer. It takes the flavors of a beloved fast-food taco and wraps it up in a neat, crunchy package. Perfect for those nights when you want something rewarding but with a homemade touch.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

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.

Beef Enchilada Casserole layers all the flavors of a classic enchilada in an easy-to-make casserole form. If you love enchiladas but want something more straightforward, this is it. It’s all the goodness without the rolling and folding. Just layer, bake, and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada 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.

For a pasta dish that feels a bit more decadent, Million Dollar Spaghetti is a must-try. It combines the comfort of spaghetti with a rich, cheesy mixture that enhances it. Think of it as spaghetti’s fancy cousin that’s still easy to make. It’s great for when you want to switch up pasta night.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

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.

Sometimes, you just need a Cheeseburger. There’s something about that classic combination of beef, cheese, and buns that’s undeniably delicious. Make them at home for a customizable, rewarding meal that beats fast food any day. Plus, who doesn’t love a good burger from the comfort of their own home?
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

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.

Taco Casserole is like deconstructed tacos baked into a dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s the casserole answer to your taco cravings. Easy to make and even easier to disappear, this dish is a weeknight winner. Gather the family, because this is a meal that everyone will want to dig into.
Get the Recipe: Taco 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.

Take your burger game international with Korean Burgers. These are not your average burgers; they’re infused with flavors that give them a little kick. They’re a fun way to spice up dinner and explore new tastes. Serve them up with some traditional sides for a meal that’s anything but boring.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

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.

Pasta night just got a little more exciting with Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini. This dish takes the comfort of tortellini and marries it with the kick of enchilada sauce. It’s a bold twist on traditional pasta that’s sure to shake things up. If you’re in the mood for flavors that pack a punch, this is your stop.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

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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