I Fed My Family With Just Ground Beef And These 29 No-Effort Meals

With just ground beef and these 29 easy meals, I finally won the what’s-for-dinner game. Nobody asked for takeout, which felt like a personal win. I didn’t even need to scroll social media for ideas mid-panic. They ate, I relaxed, and it all worked out like a sitcom with a happy ending.

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.

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 the perfect dish when you’re looking for something hearty without a lot of effort. It’s quick to assemble and full of the comforting vibes you want in a meal. The best part? It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to clean up after. You can feed the whole family without any stress or extra time spent in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Pizza 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.

When hunger hits, Korean Burgers are a game-changer. They’re easy to make and hit all the right notes without needing fancy ingredients. Whether you’re short on time or energy, this meal has you covered. It’s filling, flavorful, and makes everyone feel like they got a special treat.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

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.

When you need a quick meal that goes a long way, Spaghetti Casserole is a go-to. It’s easy to make and doesn’t require much effort. Everyone will be full and happy with this one. It’s perfect for those days when you just want something simple and filling.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

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.

For a no-hassle dinner, Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos hit the spot. You can toss everything on a pan and have a meal that satisfies without much effort. It’s the kind of dish that will have everyone digging in. Perfect for busy nights or when you want a little extra.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

Taco Pizza

A close-up of a loaded flatbread pizza topped with avocado slices, diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, seasoned meat, black beans, and a drizzle of creamy sauce.
Taco Pizza. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you want something fun and filling, Taco Pizza does the trick. This meal is a great way to mix up your routine with something familiar yet different. It comes together quickly and feels like a treat. A great weeknight go-to when you need a win with minimal work.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pizza

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.

Million Dollar Spaghetti is an easy, hearty meal that takes little time to make but delivers big results. It’s simple enough to make on a busy evening but still feels like a special dish. It’s a great choice for feeding the family without a lot of prep. You’ll definitely want this one in your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

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.

For a twist on a classic, Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes are an awesome option. It’s easy to throw together and gives you a comforting meal without fuss. The combination is hearty and filling, making it perfect for dinner. Plus, it’s a nice way to switch up a regular favorite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

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.

When you want a simple, warm meal, Beef Chili is a quick and easy option. It’s one of those dishes that can be made in no time and still packs in a lot of flavor. The best part? It fills everyone up without a lot of hassle. A great one-pot meal for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

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.

Taco Soup is a low-effort meal that’s perfect for feeding the family. With just a few steps, you get a delicious soup that everyone will enjoy. It’s hearty, filling, and can be whipped up in no time. A solid choice when you want something that’s easy but hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup

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 something that feels a little special with minimal work, Big Mac Crunchwrap is a winner. It’s a fun take on a fast food favorite with none of the fuss. Everyone loves the layers, and it comes together in no time. This is one meal that will disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

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.

Cattle Drive Casserole is the kind of meal you make when you want something that feeds a crowd without much effort. It’s hearty, filling, and can be made in a single pan. The simplicity of it makes it a great option for busy nights. Perfect for when you need a no-stress dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

Sloppy Joe

Close-up of a sloppy joe sandwich with ground meat, diced vegetables, and sauce in a toasted hamburger bun.
Sloppy Joe. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

This is a classic comfort meal that comes together quickly. It’s simple to make and doesn’t require much fuss in the kitchen. Sloppy Joe is great for a family meal that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s hearty enough to keep you full and satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe

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.

If you need an easy dinner, Baked Beef Tacos is an excellent choice. It’s quick to assemble and gives everyone a tasty meal with minimal work. You can have these ready in no time, making it perfect for a busy day. It’s a fun way to enjoy tacos without the mess.
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.

Homemade Lasagna is a great option for when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s filling, easy to make, and always a hit. You can throw it together quickly and let the oven do the rest. It’s a great meal when you need something comforting and easy.
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.

For a quick and fulfilling meal, Crunchwrap Supreme is a top choice. It’s easy to make, fun to eat, and keeps everyone full. This is the kind of dish you can throw together without a lot of effort. It’s simple, but the flavor is always spot on.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

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.

If you’re craving something hearty but easy, Southwest Sweet Potatoes hit the mark. They’re packed with everything you need for a filling meal without much effort. Throw it together quickly, and you’ll have a dinner your family will love. No need for complicated steps or hours in the kitchen here.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

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.

Looking for a simple yet fulfilling meal? Copycat Big Mac Salad takes the idea of the classic burger and turns it into a quick, easy salad. It’s a no-fuss way to bring that Big Mac taste into your kitchen. You’ll feel like you’re getting the real deal without the wait or extra work.
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.

When it’s time to keep it simple but fun, Mini Tacos make for a perfect meal. This recipe lets you create individual tacos that are easy to handle and even easier to make. They bring a whole lot of flavor without a lot of fuss. Everyone loves customizing their own, making it a win for the family.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

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 one of those go-to meals that never lets you down. It’s a classic that’s ready in no time, even when you’re feeling pressed for time. You can count on it to satisfy without needing any extra ingredients or work. This dish is comforting and filling, all with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

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.

This dish give you the iconic flavors of the popular store meal without the trip. Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat) are surprisingly easy to whip up, with a creamy sauce that brings everything together. You don’t need to be a chef to get this right. It’s the perfect meal to make when you’re in the mood for something comforting but simple.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

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 craving something with a kick, Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini will hit the spot. It’s quick to make, and the flavors come together easily for a filling dinner. You get the best of both worlds, with enchilada spices and tortellini all in one. A fun twist on classic comfort food that doesn’t take long at all.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

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 brings all the deliciousness of tacos into a casserole dish without the hassle. It’s an easy-to-make meal that feels like a treat, but it’s simple enough for busy nights. Everything bakes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. The whole family will dig in without any complaints.
Get the Recipe: Taco 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.

This recipe is as simple as it gets and delivers on comfort every time. You don’t need to overthink it, just mix, bake, and enjoy. Easy Meatloaf Recipe is a classic that comes together quickly and is filling enough for everyone at the table. No complicated steps, just a solid, hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

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.

For a meal that’s both filling and effortless, Beef Enchilada Casserole does the trick. It brings the bold flavors of enchiladas without all the rolling and wrapping. Everything layers together easily for a fulfilling dinner. You’ll have a delicious dish ready with little to no effort.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada 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.

When you’re in the mood for a quick, fulfilling meal, Cheeseburger fits the bill. This one is as easy as it gets, but it’ll still leave everyone happy. You don’t have to fuss with a lot of extras to get it right, just meat, cheese, and the basics. It’s the perfect way to make dinner without any stress.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

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.

Beef Tacos are a simple dinner solution when you don’t want to overcomplicate things. They come together fast and are always a crowd-pleaser. You can adjust the toppings to suit everyone’s tastes, making them a flexible choice. Whether it’s just a regular weeknight or something more casual, they’ll get the job done.
Get the Recipe: 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.

This casserole is comfort food made easy. It’s filling, simple, and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients to get it just right. You’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time with minimal prep work. Cowboy Casserole is perfect for busy nights when you still want something your whole family will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy 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.

For a burger that packs a punch without all the time, try Copycat Smash Burger. It’s an easy, no-effort way to enjoy a classic burger flavor at home. The best part? It’s quick to make, with no complicated steps. Just smash and cook, and you’ll have a satisfying meal in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

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.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole gives you the same comfort as stuffed peppers but with less work. This dish is made with minimal effort but packs plenty of flavors. Everything bakes in one dish, making cleanup easy and quick. You’ll have a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Casserole

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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