29 Ground Beef Recipes I Reach For When I’m Just Too Tired To Think

If staring into the fridge counts as meal planning, then I’m a pro. These 29 ground beef recipes are what I reach for when thinking feels like a group project I didn’t sign up for. They’re easy to throw together and don’t expect much from me. Which is exactly the kind of relationship I want at 6 p.m.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the answer when you want something hearty but don’t have the energy to stuff anything. It takes the classic stuffed peppers and simplifies it without losing the appeal. Everything you love about peppers is in here, but it’s effortless. No fuss, just a meal that fills you up.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Beef Chili

Sometimes you just need a simple meal, like Beef Chili. It’s packed with all the basics, making it a go-to when you need something filling and quick. No need to overcomplicate things when this one does the job. The best part? It’s super easy to put together.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Spaghetti Casserole

When you’re too tired to think, Spaghetti Casserole has your back. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t require much effort but still delivers. Perfect for a busy night, it keeps everyone fed without any hassle. Toss everything together and you’re done—no stress, just easy comfort.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Big Mac Crunchwrap

Big Mac Crunchwrap is your go-to when you want something familiar but with a twist. It’s like a Big Mac but way easier to eat on the go. The layers make it interesting, but it’s still simple enough to make when you’re low on energy. Wrap it up, and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

Cattle Drive Casserole

When dinner feels like a chore, Cattle Drive Casserole has your back. It’s straightforward and filling, with everything cooked in one pan. No need to worry about a mess or complicated steps. Just hearty, comforting food that’ll keep you going.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

Korean Burgers

If you’re craving something different, try Korean Burgers. These are quick to assemble and have just the right amount of zing. They give you a break from the usual while still being easy to whip up. It’s the perfect option when you’re not up for something too complex.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Baked Beef Tacos

Baked Beef Tacos bring a simple but fun twist to taco night. No need for individual fillings—everything’s baked in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. It’s perfect for when you want a taco night but don’t have the energy to assemble a million little pieces. A crowd-pleaser with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

Million Dollar Spaghetti

When you don’t feel like cooking something complicated, Million Dollar Spaghetti is there for you. This dish takes a classic and makes it much simpler to prepare, but it still feels like something special. Layer it up and bake—then just sit back and relax. It’s comfort food without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Crunchwrap Supreme

Crunchwrap Supreme is perfect when you want something fun but easy. It’s like your favorite wrap, but all rolled up into a single, portable meal. Just fold it up and throw it on the grill—minimal prep for a great meal. Quick, easy, and no mess.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

These nachos make dinner a breeze, with everything cooked on one pan. Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos are perfect for when you want a shareable meal without the usual cleanup. Toss it in the oven and you’ve got a delicious, no-fuss dinner. It’s nachos with a little more kick and a lot less work.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

Pizza Casserole

When you need something easy, Pizza Casserole is the answer. It’s basically everything you love about pizza, but in casserole form, making it way less work. Layer it up, bake it, and you’re set. The whole family will be happy, and you won’t break a sweat.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Sloppy Joe

Sloppy Joe is a classic go-to when you want something quick and comforting. No need for a bunch of fancy steps, just ground beef and a simple sauce. Serve it on a bun and you’ve got a meal that’s both easy and filling. It’s straightforward and always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe

Copycat Big Mac Salad

If you love the Big Mac but want something lighter, try Copycat Big Mac Salad. It gives you that same flavor without the hassle of making a sandwich. Everything is tossed together into one salad, making it easy to eat and less of a mess. A quicker way to enjoy a favorite without the drive-thru.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

Cheeseburger

When you need a no-brainer meal, Cheeseburger is a simple choice. It’s a classic, and there’s no need for anything fancy—just a patty and a bun. Cook it, assemble it, and you’re done. It’s the kind of meal that doesn’t require too much thought.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes take the classic and make it a bit more filling with the addition of sweet potatoes. It’s still easy to make but with a little more substance. Serve it on a bun, and you’ve got a hearty meal with minimal effort. The sweet and savory combo is a nice twist without the extra work.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Beef Enchilada Casserole

When you want a hearty meal without overthinking, Beef Enchilada Casserole is the perfect choice. It’s quick to prepare and hits all the right notes. No need to stress about complicated steps—just assemble and bake. It’s a comforting, no-fuss dish that will fill you up and keep everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Casserole

Cheeseburger Pasta

Cheeseburger Pasta brings the best of both worlds together in a single pot. It’s the kind of recipe you can throw together without much thought. When time is tight, this one is sure to hit the spot. Simple, filling, and reliable, it’s the go-to when you need something easy yet fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Pasta

Beef Tacos

These tacos are always a win when you need something quick. You can have them ready in no time, with minimal prep required. They’re customizable and perfect for those days when you don’t feel like making a big meal. No-fuss and always delicious, Beef Tacos makes dinner effortless.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tacos

Cowboy Casserole

For those nights when you need a meal that requires little thought, Cowboy Casserole has you covered. It’s all about convenience without skimping on comfort. Just throw it together, bake, and you’ve got a filling dish that’s sure to please. It’s an easy one to keep in rotation when you’re tired.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Casserole

Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re in the mood for something hearty but easy, Cheeseburger Soup fits the bill. It’s filling, rich, and doesn’t take much to prepare. Perfect for when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. A great meal that comes together quickly with little effort.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Homemade Lasagna

Homemade Lasagna is your answer for a filling, comforting dinner without a lot of work. Layers of pasta and beef, baked to perfection in no time. It’s an easy meal that feels special without being complicated. Great for those nights when you just want something simple but fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Copycat Smash Burger

When you crave a burger but don’t want to deal with the hassle, Copycat Smash Burger is your go-to. It’s easy to make and doesn’t require fancy tools. You get that classic smash burger feel without the effort. Quick to prepare, and it always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Easy Meatloaf Recipe is perfect for when you’re looking for something classic but not time-consuming. It’s an easy, no-fuss meal that you can prepare in minutes. Bake it, slice it, and serve—it’s as simple as that. A reliable option that never disappoints when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Spaghetti Bolognese

On busy nights, Spaghetti Bolognese delivers a hearty meal that’s quick to whip up. The combination of pasta and beef always works, and it doesn’t take long to make. It’s perfect when you want something filling but don’t feel like spending hours cooking. A go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

Mini Tacos

If you’re in the mood for something easy and fun, Mini Tacos are a great option. They’re quick to assemble and perfect for when you want something light yet fulfilling. You can throw them together with whatever you’ve got on hand. These mini tacos always hit the mark without any hassle.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Southwest Sweet Potatoes is a simple dish that gives you comfort without a lot of effort. Toss them together and you’ve got a tasty, filling meal in no time. It’s one of those recipes that works on autopilot and is always a hit. Great for days when cooking feels like too much.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

This dish is a fun, quick take on a classic favorite. Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a filling dish that comes together fast and gives you a bit of heat when you need it. Perfect for nights when you just want to toss something together without a second thought. Simple and satisfying without the extra steps.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

If you’re craving comfort without the fuss, Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat) is the recipe to turn to. It’s a hearty dish that’s simple to make and always hits the spot. No need for fancy ingredients or processes—just a classic dish that delivers. Perfect for when you need something filling and easy.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

Easy Tater Tot Casserole

Easy Tater Tot Casserole is the go-to recipe for days when you just don’t want to think about dinner. It’s quick, easy, and always filling. A great option when you’re short on time but still want something hearty. You can’t go wrong with this straightforward, satisfying dish.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole