Ground beef is one of the most versatile ingredients you can have in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, hosting a family gathering, or meal prepping for the week, it never fails to deliver hearty and satisfying meals. Here are five delicious ground beef recipes, along with some handy tips to make them even better.
1. Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
A comforting favorite, this dish combines ground beef with rich tomato sauce for a quick yet flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Spaghetti
- Tomato sauce
- Garlic, onion, and Italian herbs
Tips:
- Brown the beef thoroughly before adding the sauce for a richer flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer for at least 20 minutes to deepen the taste.
- Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
2. Beef Tacos
Perfect for Taco Tuesday or any night, beef tacos are a family-friendly hit.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Taco seasoning
- Taco shells
- Your favorite toppings (lettuce, cheese, salsa, sour cream, avocado)
Tips:
- Toast the taco shells lightly in the oven for extra crunch.
- Mix a spoonful of tomato paste with water and taco seasoning for a more robust filling.
- Set up a taco bar so everyone can customize their tacos.
3. Shepherd’s Pie
A comforting casserole dish that combines savory ground beef with mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- Beef broth
- Mashed potatoes
Tips:
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creamy mashed potato topping.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and bake until golden brown.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers
A healthy yet filling option, stuffed peppers are a great way to enjoy ground beef with a twist.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Bell peppers (any color)
- Cooked rice or quinoa
- Tomato sauce and seasonings
Tips:
- Par-cook the bell peppers in boiling water for 5 minutes to soften them before stuffing.
- Mix in shredded cheese with the filling for extra creaminess.
- Bake covered with foil for 20 minutes, then uncover to let the tops crisp up.
5. Homemade Beef Burgers
Skip the takeout and make juicy beef burgers at home.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder
- Burger buns
- Favorite toppings (lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, condiments)
Tips:
- Chill the patties for 20 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
- Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking to retain their juices.
- Toast the buns lightly for added texture and flavor.
Ground Beef Cooking Tips:
- Choose the Right Fat Content: For most recipes, a mix of 80% lean and 20% fat ground beef delivers the best flavor and texture.
- Season Early: Add salt and seasonings while browning the meat to enhance the flavors.
- Drain Excess Grease: After browning the beef, drain off excess fat to avoid greasy dishes.
Whether you’re craving something hearty or looking for a healthy meal option, these ground beef recipes have you covered. Try one tonight and see why ground beef is a staple in so many kitchens!