When it comes to budget-friendly meals, few ingredients are as versatile and affordable as ground beef. With a pound of ground beef costing around $3-$4 on average, it’s a staple that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from classic comfort food to international-inspired meals. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From hearty stews and casseroles to tacos and quesadillas, our recipes showcase the versatility of ground beef in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, these budget-friendly meals are perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, get creative with your ground beef, and enjoy the savings!
Classic Beef and Bean Chili
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening, this classic beef and bean chili is a staple of American comfort food. With tender chunks of beef, soft beans, and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in the chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked beans, beef broth, and diced tomatoes; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Beef Tacos
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe for homemade beef tacos. With tender ground beef, crunchy toppings, and a sprinkle of love, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and taco seasoning to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the onion is translucent and the flavors are combined.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by shredded cheese and your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Beef and Rice Casserole
Easy Beef and Rice Casserole: A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
5. Stir in the chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef mixture, and shredded cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
A timeless favorite, this spaghetti dish is a staple of Italian cuisine. Ground beef and tomato sauce simmer together to create a rich and savory flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; reserve.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as needed.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in marinara sauce, beef broth, and oregano. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve spaghetti topped with meat sauce and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Beef and Potato Hash
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch, this beef and potato hash is easy to make and packed with flavor. Diced beef and potatoes are cooked together with onions and spices, then served with eggs and toast for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (ground or diced), browned
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 eggs, beaten (optional)
– Toast or hash browns for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil and cook onions and garlic until softened.
4. Add diced potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Add browned beef back into the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Serve hot with eggs (if using) and toast or hash browns.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef
Savor the flavors of a classic comfort food dish with this simple recipe for stuffed bell peppers, packed with tender ground beef and a medley of spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, filling to the top.
7. Drizzle tops with olive oil and cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes; remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quick Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Get ready for a flavorful and healthy meal with this simple recipe that combines beef, colorful vegetables, and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these savory Beef and Cheese Quesadillas, packed with flavorful ground beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Cooking oil or butter for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook ground beef in the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion and taco seasoning to the beef mixture; cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Brush one side of each tortilla with cooking oil or butter.
5. Place one tortilla, oiled side down, in the skillet. Top with beef mixture, then sprinkle shredded cheese.
6. Fold tortilla in half to enclose filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until cheese is melted and tortilla is crispy.
7. Flip quesadilla; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Beef and Macaroni Skillet
A hearty, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. This recipe combines ground beef, macaroni, and vegetables in a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup macaroni
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and mixed bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce.
6. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Soup
This comforting soup is a classic combination of tender beef, crisp cabbage, and aromatic vegetables, perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight meal. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, cabbage, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Cheesy Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and filling twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines ground beef, cooked rice, and melted cheese with sweet bell peppers for a satisfying main dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each pepper with the beef-rice mixture and top with shredded cheese.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Gravy over Mashed Potatoes
Classic Beef and Mushroom Gravy over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a cozy evening at home. This recipe combines tender beef, savory mushrooms, and creamy mashed potatoes smothered in a rich and flavorful gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes
– Butter and milk for mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add beef broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly; bring to a simmer.
6. Cook mashed potatoes according to package instructions or boil diced potatoes in salted water until tender, then mash with butter and milk.
7. Serve beef and mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Cornbread Casserole
This classic comfort food dish combines tender beef, sweet corn, and savory cornbread for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or potlucks. With its easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this warm and cozy casserole in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet; drain excess fat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and paprika; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in corn kernels, milk, flour, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with cornbread mix and grated cheese.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
One-Pot Beef and Pasta
In just one pot, you can create a hearty and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of beef, pasta, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups of beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large, deep pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the pasta, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the beef to the pot and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew combines the rich flavor of beef with the nutty taste of lentils, making it a perfect meal for a chilly evening. With its simple preparation and long cooking time, this recipe is ideal for a slow-cooker or a day-long simmer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker or Dutch oven.
4. Add the lentils, broth, tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours (or high for 4-6 hours).
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker) or 4-6 hours (stovetop)
Beef and Onion Pie
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch. This beef and onion pie is filled with tender chunks of beef, caramelized onions, and flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 large onions, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the beef and onions over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, flour, salt, and pepper; stir for 1 minute.
4. Stir in melted butter and beaten egg.
5. Roll out pie crust and place into a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with beef mixture.
6. Top with additional pie crust or crumb topping (optional).
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Tomato Rice Bowls
Savor the flavors of a hearty and aromatic dish with this simple recipe. Beef and tomato rice bowls are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: scallions, sesame seeds, or pickled ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 1 minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
6. Stir in cooked rice into the tomato mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until combined.
7. Add the browned beef back into the skillet and stir to combine with the rice and tomatoes.
8. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot in bowls and garnish with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A twist on the classic stuffed shells, this recipe adds savory beef and spinach to the mix for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta shells, beef mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
7. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish; fill with stuffed shell mixture.
8. Top with marinara sauce and additional mozzarella cheese (if desired).
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Black Bean Burritos
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this hearty and delicious recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends. This filling burrito is packed with tender beef, black beans, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and black beans. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the flavors are combined.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by spooning the beef and bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Add optional toppings as desired.
7. Roll up the burrito tightly and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Zucchini Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pan dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. This recipe combines tender beef, sautéed zucchini, and savory spices in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes or until browned; remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the sliced zucchinis to the pan and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until tender.
5. Return the beef strips to the pan and stir in cumin; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these delicious and budget-friendly ground beef recipes! From classic comfort foods like chili, tacos, and casserole, to international-inspired dishes like quesadillas and stir-fry, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find hearty stews, savory pies, and even some vegetarian options like lentil stew and stuffed shells. With 20 mouth-watering recipes under $5 each, you can enjoy a flavorful dinner without breaking the bank. Perfect for families, college students, or anyone looking to stretch their food budget.