Out of Ideas? 27 Ground Beef Recipes That Never Fail

Running out of dinner ideas again? This list of 27 ground beef recipes will rescue your weeknights without making you cry over another bland meal. They’re simple, reliable, and way better than the usual last-minute spaghetti situation. Bonus: nobody at the table will give you that look.

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.

If you’re craving something with a crunch that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than Baked Beef Tacos. They’ve got enough kick to keep dinner interesting. Plus, they’re easy to whip up on any chaotic weekday. And you get to enjoy the leftovers—if there are any.
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.

Looking for something a notch above the usual pasta night? Million Dollar Spaghetti is what you need. It’s as wallet-friendly as it is belly-filling. Creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection, it’s basically lasagna’s laid-back cousin. Everyone ends up digging in for seconds, trust me.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

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.

Need a hearty meal that’s easy to whip up? Go for Cattle Drive Casserole. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve been out on the range all day. Plus, it complements any laid-back evening perfectly. Layers of comfort, a bit of kick, and zero fuss—what more could you ask for?
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

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.

Got a craving for something fast-food-esque but homemade? Big Mac Crunchwrap hits that spot. It packs all those familiar flavors but in a fun, crispy package. It’s a twist that’s sure to become part of your regular meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

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 your answer when you’re hunting for something quick and fuss-free. It fills you up without weighing you down, perfect for those busier days. Plus, it’s a cinch to serve up with whatever toppings you’ve got handy. It’s basically no stress, no mess.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup

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 those days when a plain burger just doesn’t cut it, Korean Burgers offer a nice change. They have a unique spin that makes each bite interesting. It’s perfect when you’re in the mood for something familiar yet different. And they’ll definitely have people coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

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.

Copycat Big Mac Salad is your go-to when you want your favorite burger flavors, minus the bun. It’s a little lighter, but still packs that punch you’re looking for. It’s pretty solid for meal prep or a quick lunch. You’ll be surprised at how well it hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

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.

If you’re out of dinner ideas, you can’t go wrong with a pot of Beef Chili. It’s simple, but it brings the comfort of home to your table. This dish works for a casual weeknight meal or when you’re just feeling lazy. Trust me, it’s a tried and true crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Crunchwrap Supreme

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

Sometimes, you just need to mix up your taco night, so why not try a Crunchwrap Supreme? It’s got that neat, all-in-one factor going for it. You get all your favorite elements without the fall-apart risk of a regular taco. It’s a switch-up that your dining companions will cheer on.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

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 straightforward to make and a surefire winner at any meal. They’re customizable, so everyone gets exactly what they want. Whether it’s a regular Tuesday or you just need to put dinner on the table, they’ve got your back. This is the kind of no-brainer dish that comes in clutch.
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.

Bored of traditional spaghetti but still craving those pasta vibes? Spaghetti Casserole is where it’s at. It throws a bit of fun into your usual pasta routine. And it makes for great leftovers – if you’ve got any left, that is.
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.

There’s nothing like a classic Cheeseburger to quiet a rumbling stomach. It’s got all the right stuff – no fancy tricks needed. It’s also great for those moments when you just want a good, solid meal. Plus, it’s pretty much a universal comfort food.
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.

On the hunt for something without a ton of hassle? Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a solid pick. It combines all the flavors you’re after, with minimal effort. It’s especially great if you’re trying to feed a bunch without breaking a sweat.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper 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.

Sometimes you just need something uncomplicated and filling, and that’s where an Easy Meatloaf Recipe comes in. It’s the kind of meal that takes you back to simpler times. It’s perfect for those nights when you crave something homemade. And let’s face it, it’s basically a hug on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

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.

Cheeseburger Pasta combines the comfort of pasta with the all-time classic cheeseburger. It’s a real crowd-pleaser and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. You won’t need to go out for fast food when you can whip this up in your own kitchen. Plus, it saves on dishes, which is always a bonus.
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.

For those nights when you’re craving both Mexican and comfort food, Beef Enchilada Casserole has got your back. It layers in all the flavors you’re after, without the hassle of rolling enchiladas. Just bake it in the oven, and you’re good to go. This dish is also great for leftovers, so you might want to make a bit extra.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Casserole

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 a pan of Homemade Lasagna to make any dinner special. It might take a bit of time to put together, but the result is worth every minute. This dish is perfect for when you want to impress someone or just treat yourself. Plus, it reheats well for lunch the next day.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

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 love cheeseburgers but are looking for a cozy twist, Cheeseburger Soup is where it’s at. It’s everything you love about cheeseburgers but in a comforting soup form. It’s also a nice way to switch things up during the colder months. And it’s surprisingly easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

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 is the ultimate comfort food mash-up. This dish is super simple to put together, making it perfect for those lazy nights. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, and you can tweak it with whatever you have on hand. Comfort food doesn’t get easier or more satisfying than this.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot 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 that perfect burger but can’t go out? Copycat Smash Burger has got you covered. It nails the taste and texture of your favorite fast-food joint’s classic burger. Best part? You can make it in your own kitchen whenever the craving hits.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

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.

Cowboy Casserole throws together some hearty ingredients for a filling dish that’ll hit the spot every time. It’s got that “stick to your ribs” kind of vibe, which is perfect for chilly evenings. It’s pretty straightforward to make, and it feeds a crowd without breaking the bank. Also, who doesn’t love a good casserole?
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.

Add a twist to your usual meatloaf with Taco Meatloaf. This recipe infuses favorite taco flavors into a classic meatloaf, making it anything but boring. It’s a fun way to mix up your dinner routine. Plus, it makes for great sandwiches the next day.
Get the Recipe: Taco Meatloaf

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.

Southwest Sweet Potatoes are for those nights when you want something a little different. This dish packs in some bold tastes without being too complicated. It’s a real winner for anyone looking to add more veggies to their meal in an interesting way. And it’s hearty enough to stand on its own.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

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.

We can’t talk about ground beef recipes without mentioning Spaghetti Bolognese. This classic dish is a staple for a reason. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. And it’s pretty easy to throw together, even on a busy night.
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.

For those who can’t get enough of those iconic Swedish meatballs, this Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat) recipe is a real game changer. Now, you can recreate that IKEA trip experience right at home. It’s surprisingly simple to make, and it pairs wonderfully with that equally famous gravy. Just don’t forget the lingonberry sauce for the full effect.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

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.

When taco night needs a makeover, Taco Casserole steps up to the plate. It’s like taking all the best parts of tacos and baking them into one delicious dish. This recipe is also a great way to use up any taco fixings you have in the fridge. Plus, it’s always a hit with the family.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

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.

Spicing things up in the kitchen is easy with Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini. This recipe gives a fun twist to traditional pasta dishes. It’s a little bit spicy, a lot cheesy, and totally satisfying. And for anyone who loves a bit of heat, it’s a must-try.
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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