29 Ground Beef Recipes That Gave Me A Break Without Takeout

When there’s nothing in the tank and dinner still has to happen, shortcuts that work matter a lot. The 29 ground beef ideas handled the hard part without the usual delivery wait or expense. They helped stretch what was in the fridge and saved the night more than once. It felt like winning by accident.

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.

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.

Who says you need a taco shell to enjoy the taco vibe? Imagine all that goodness but in a bowl, warm and comforting. Taco Soup turns your favorite taco ingredients into a delicious soup. It’s perfect for those days you want something cozy yet packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup

Cheeseburger

Nothing beats the classic feel of biting into a juicy burger. Cheeseburger is all about that simple pleasure, with ground beef and cheese coming together in a harmony of taste. It’s the go-to for a quick, fulfilling meal. Ideal for those backyard cookouts or just a simple family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Three baked sweet potatoes topped with minced meat, melted cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions on a white plate. — Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Mixing it up with sweet potato might not be traditional, but it sure is delicious. Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes offer a sweet and flavorful twist on the classic dish. It’s a creative way to sneak in some veggies into your meal. Perfect for an exciting and hearty dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

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.

You don’t always need a big plate to get big flavors, especially when it comes to these gratifying tiny bites that pack a punch. Easy to grab and even easier to customize, Mini Tacos will have you reaching for seconds (or thirds!). It’s a playful take on dinner that brings a little joy with every mini mouthful.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

If you love stuffed peppers but want less hassle, this casserole is your dream come true. Stuffed Pepper Casserole deconstructs the classic dish into a simple, bake-and-serve meal. It’s a fuss-free way to enjoy the flavors of stuffed peppers. This dish brings comfort food to the table without all the work.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Copycat Smash Burger

Ever crave a fast-food burger but want to stay home? Copycat Smash Burger brings that irresistible fast-food taste right to your kitchen. It’s amazing what you can create with ground beef and a hot griddle. Ideal for rewarding those fast-food cravings with a homemade touch.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

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 says classic comfort like a big pot of Beef Chili. It’s robust, full of flavor, and can simmer away while you go about your day. Whether it’s game day or a hearty meal you seek, this chili delivers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

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.

Wandering through Ikea and getting tempted by their famous meatballs is almost a given. Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat) lets you recreate that magic at home. It’s a flavorful treat that brings a bit of Sweden to your dining table. Perfect with lingonberry sauce or your favorite gravy.
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.

For a twist on the traditional burger, why not add some Korean flavors? Korean Burgers infuse ground beef with bold spices and ingredients. The result is a burger that’s bursting with unique flavors. It’s a fantastic way to spice up your burger routine.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

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.

Mixing the hearty texture of sweet potatoes with zingy Southwest flavors makes for an unbeatable combo. Southwest Sweet Potatoes are stuffed with a tasty mixture that’s both worthwhile and nutritious. This dish is a colorful and flavorful twist on your average dinner. It’s a fresh take on combining veggies and meat in a meal.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

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.

Turn taco night on its head with a baked version that’s crispy and loaded with flavor. Baked Beef Tacos are a fun and easy way to enjoy tacos without the usual mess. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd or just your hungry family. This dish puts a delicious spin on a beloved classic.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

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.

Sometimes, spaghetti needs a luxurious twist. Million Dollar Spaghetti layers flavors and textures into an indulgent dish. It’s like the regular spaghetti decided to dress up for a fancy dinner. Great for when you want to impress your guests or treat yourself.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

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.

Imagine all the flavors of beef enchiladas but in an easy-to-serve casserole form. Beef Enchilada Casserole layers tortillas, cheese, and a succulent beef mixture. It’s a straightforward dish that brings a Mexican flair to your dinner table. Perfect for when you’re craving something hearty and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Casserole

Crunchwrap Supreme

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

Bringing the drive-thru favorite into your kitchen, this dish wraps up tasty, cheesy goodness in a neat package. Crunchwrap Supreme is a homemade take on the popular fast-food item. It’s a creative and tasty way to enjoy ground beef in a crunch-tastic meal. Ideal for a fun and hands-on dinner experience.
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.

Layered with love and lots of flavors, lasagna is the ultimate comfort food. Homemade Lasagna includes sheets of pasta layered with meat sauce and cheese, baked to perfection. It’s a labor of love that pays off with every delicious bite. Perfect for a family gathering or a comforting meal to share.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

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.

Craving that iconic burger but in a lighter form? Copycat Big Mac Salad deconstructs the famous sandwich into a flavorful salad. It’s a cheeky way to enjoy all those familiar flavors without the bun. A fun dish for anyone looking to mix up their salad game.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

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 Italian pasta with Mexican flavors creates something seriously fun. Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini fuses two cuisines into one mouthwatering dish. It’s a spicy twist on your usual pasta dinner. Perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their meal.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

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.

Named after those long drives on the open range, this casserole is hearty and filling. Cattle Drive Casserole combines ground beef with layers of deliciousness, reminiscent of cowboy cooking. It’s a robust meal that’s sure to fill you up after a long day. Great for feeding a hungry crowd with a taste of the wild west.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

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.

Imagine your favorite taco ingredients but in a refreshing pasta salad. Taco Pasta Salad is a gratifying fusion that’s both unique and delicious. It’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a simple side dish at home. A playful twist on traditional pasta salad, it’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

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.

Love pizza but not the effort it takes to make one from scratch? Pizza Casserole is your quick fix. This casserole version of a pizza packs all your favorite toppings and the cheesy goodness into a dish that’s family-friendly and rewarding for a cozy night in.
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 dish that feels like a hug from the inside, you can’t go wrong with it. Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless classic that combines tender pasta with a rich meat sauce. It’s a comforting meal that appeals to both kids and adults. Perfect for a hearty dinner any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

Beef Tacos

When the craving for tacos hits, Beef Tacos are there to satisfy. Quick to prepare and always amusing, they offer a versatile canvas for all your favorite toppings. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a dinner feast, these tacos bring everyone to the table with a smile.
Get the Recipe: Beef 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.

Nachos just got an upgrade with this one-pan wonder. Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos are piled high with all the toppings on a single sheet for easy baking and serving. They’re perfect for game day or a casual family night. This dish is a fun way to enjoy the flavors of enchiladas, streamlined into nacho form.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

Cowboy Casserole

Dig into the hearty, comforting depths of Cowboy Casserole. This dish is a nod to rustic, country cooking, providing a worthwhile and meaty meal fit for a hungry crowd. It’s a simple, no-nonsense dish that’s big on flavor and comfort.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy 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.

Giving a classic favorite a taco twist, this meatloaf is anything but ordinary. Taco Meatloaf infuses the familiar comfort of meatloaf with the bold flavors of tacos. It’s a creative take that’s sure to spice up dinner time. The perfect option for when you’re in the mood for something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Taco Meatloaf

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.

Love the flavors of a Big Mac but want something different? Big Mac Crunchwrap combines all those familiar flavors in a neat, handheld wrap. It’s perfect for a quick bite or a fun dinner that brings back fast-food memories without the drive-thru.
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.

For a comforting dish that reminds you of childhood, Easy Tater Tot Casserole is a winner. Loaded with ground beef and topped with crispy tater tots, this casserole is a guilty pleasure that’s irresistibly tasty. It’s a total crowd-pleaser, especially on chilly nights.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole

Sloppy Joe

Revisit a classic with Sloppy Joe. This traditional sandwich features ground beef in a tasty sauce, sandwiched between buns for a fulfilling and quick meal. It’s perfect for a no-fuss lunch or a simple, worthwhile dinner that brings back pleasant memories.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

When you’re after something straightforward and fulfilling, Easy Meatloaf Recipe calls your name. This classic dish is as simple as it gets, with a comforting taste that feels like home. It’s ideal for a traditional family dinner where simplicity reigns supreme.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

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.