When You’re Craving Hearty, Try 25 Ground Beef Recipes That Deliver

Dinner shouldn’t feel like a struggle, especially when you’re craving hearty. These 25 ground beef recipes bring variety without making things complicated. Whether you want something quick or a dish that sticks, you’ll find plenty of ideas. No more boring meals—just solid recipes that make dinner easier.

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.
Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

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 hitting that serious hunger, Crunchwrap Supreme comes in clutch. It’s like having your favorite taco, but way better because everything is packed neatly inside. Nothing beats the mix of textures from crispy to tender all in one bite. Seriously, it’s a game-changer when you’re undecided on what to eat.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

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.

Got a craving for something that’ll warm you right up? Beef Chili is where it’s at. It’s hearty, packs a punch, and is perfect when you need a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s awesome for meal prep because it tastes even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

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 might just become your new go-to when you need something filling. It’s layered, rich, and makes you feel like you’re at a homestyle diner without leaving your house. The name itself sounds like an adventure, and the dish delivers on that promise. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds.
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.

Ever thought about combining a Big Mac and a crunchwrap? Big Mac Crunchwrap does just that. It takes all the classic elements you love and wraps them into something incredibly satisfying. It’s a creative twist that’ll have you questioning why you haven’t tried it sooner. Great for when regular sandwiches just won’t cut it.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

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.

These tacos bring a new level of ease to taco night. Baked Beef Tacos are perfect for feeding a crowd without the mess of assembling individually. Just stuff, bake, and serve. Everyone can add their favorite toppings after, making it a stress-free meal everyone enjoys.
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.

Million Dollar Spaghetti is as indulgent as it sounds. Think of your favorite pasta taken up several notches. It’s rich, comforting, and will have everyone asking for the recipe. This dish is a slam dunk for when you want something more special than regular spaghetti.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

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.

Salad but make it fast food fancy? Copycat Big Mac Salad has got you covered. It deconstructs all the elements of the iconic burger into a salad form. It’s a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on the taste you’re craving. Perfect for those looking for a more balanced approach.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

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.

The classic Cheeseburger never goes out of style. It’s simple, it’s classic, and it hits the spot every single time. Whether grilled indoors or on a stovetop, it’s a winner. Definitely the way to go when you can’t decide what to eat.
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.

For a twist on traditional, try this Stuffed Pepper Casserole. It takes all the beloved elements of stuffed peppers and turns it into an easy-to-make casserole. This dish is both hearty and comforting. It’s a fantastic choice for a no-fuss dinner that feels a bit different.
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 when you want something quick, filling, and packed with flavor. The combination of seasoned beef and fresh toppings makes each bite satisfying. Whether you keep it simple or load them up, they’re always a hit. Perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or just when a craving hits.
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.

Can’t decide between spaghetti night and a cozy casserole? Spaghetti Casserole is your perfect solution. It brings all the comfort you need with a twist on a classic favorite. Plus, it’s a hit for getting the whole family to sit down and enjoy a meal together.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti 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.

Ever crave that crispy, juicy burger from your favorite joint? Making Copycat Smash Burger at home lets you in on the secret. Without stepping out, you can recreate that perfect burger experience. It’s all about that crunch and juicy combo.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

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.

For those days when you want the taco vibe without the mess, Taco Soup comes to the rescue. It’s like your favorite taco in a comforting bowl of warmth. Easy to whip up and packed with all the familiar flavors, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser. Just grab a spoon and go to town.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup

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 is for those who can’t resist the call of cheeseburgers but crave something a bit different. It’s a simple way to shake up dinner time with a familiar taste. Everyone at the table will be asking for seconds. It’s that dish that makes you wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Pasta

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.

Want something that feels like a hug in a dish? Cowboy Casserole has got you covered. It’s hearty, it’s full of goodness, and it just hits the spot. With layers of pure comfort baked to perfection, this is the kind of meal that makes second helpings non-negotiable. Perfect for when you need a little extra comfort on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Casserole

Cheeseburger Soup

A pot of cheesy potato and meat stew garnished with chopped parsley and crispy bacon.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ever thought about your favorite burger in soup form? Cheeseburger Soup turns that thought into a reality. It’s creamy, it’s rich, and it packs all the punch of a classic cheeseburger. This one’s a game changer during those chilly evenings.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

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.

If you’re looking for something that’s straightforward but doesn’t skimp on the home-cooked experience, Easy Meatloaf Recipe is your go-to. It’s the classic you remember, without any fuss. Just straight-up good food that reminds you of home. And really, it’s all about that crust.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

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.

Don’t let the layers scare you; Homemade Lasagna is worth every step. It’s about bringing together layers of joy in one dish. Invite some friends over or just treat yourself. It’s all about sharing good times and good food.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

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 two favorites: the crispiness of tater tots and the heartiness of a casserole. It’s a sure hit with both kids and adults. Throw it together, pop it in the oven, and you’re good to go. You might just end up making it more often than you thought.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole

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.

These potatoes take a familiar favorite and give it a kick. It’s a little bit sweet, a little bit spicy, and totally filling. Southwest Sweet Potatoes are perfect for when you want to switch things up without going too far out there. Trust us, it’s a combo you need to try.
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.

A classic done right, Spaghetti Bolognese never disappoints. It’s all about that slow-simmered goodness that fills the whole house with an inviting aroma. Great for any day of the week, it’s a staple that everyone should have in their repertoire. Really, it’s as comforting as it gets.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

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.

Layers of bold flavors come together in Taco Casserole, making it a go-to for anyone who loves tacos but wants something baked and hearty. It has all the usual taco favorites but in an easy-to-scoop form. Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Serve it as is or add your favorite toppings.
Get the Recipe: Taco 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.

Miss those trips to the furniture giant just for the meatballs? With Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat), bring that experience home. It’s surprisingly simple to recreate and hits just the right spot. Just don’t forget the lingonberry sauce.
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.

When you can’t decide between Italian and Mexican, Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini offers the perfect compromise. It’s a unique twist that’s unexpectedly awesome. Packed with bold flavors and ready in no time, it’s a weeknight hero. Why choose when you can have the best of both worlds?
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Slow Cooker 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.
Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf takes the classic meatloaf and gives it a taco-inspired makeover. It’s as easy as setting it and forgetting it until dinner time. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing every bite with flavor. Plus, it’s a new take on taco night that everyone will get excited about.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf

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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