35 Ground Beef Dinners for Cheap Weeknight Meals

Ground beef sits in most kitchens waiting for a good use. It cooks fast, costs little, and takes on almost any flavor you give it. Busy families need meals that come together in under an hour without draining the grocery budget.

Roundup gathers thirty-five hearty dinners built around ground beef, each one built for real weeknights. From skillets to casseroles to soups, you will find something new to put on the table tonight.

35 Ground Beef Dinners for Cheap Weeknight Meals

35 Ground Beef Dinners for Cheap Weeknight Meals

1. Beef Taco Salad

Beef Taco Salad
Photo Credit: img. texasmonthly

Seasoned beef, crisp lettuce, and crunchy tortilla strips pile into one big bowl for this salad. It gives you all the flavor of tacos in a lighter form.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 4 cups shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
  • Ranch or salsa dressing

Instructions

  • Brown the beef in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water, then simmer for 5 minutes
  • Spread lettuce in a large bowl
  • Top with beef, cheese, and tomato
  • Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top
  • Drizzle with dressing before serving
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories410
Protein25g
Carbs22g
Fat25g

For recipe: [Beef Taco Salad]

2. Cheesy Taco Pasta

Cheesy Taco Pasta
Photo Credit: Taste

Taco flavor meets tender pasta in a creamy cheese sauce. A mild spice kick runs through the rich, cheesy finish. Kids and adults both tend to ask for seconds.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 cups pasta shells
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chiles, 10 ounces

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta according to package directions, then drain
  • Brown the beef in a large pot and drain the fat
  • Stir in taco seasoning, broth, milk, and tomatoes
  • Simmer for 5 minutes
  • Add the cooked pasta and cheese, then stir until melted
  • Serve warm with extra cheese on top if you like
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories480
Protein28g
Carbs42g
Fat22g

For recipe: [Cheesy Taco Pasta]

3. Classic Beef Sloppy Joes

Classic Beef Sloppy Joes
Photo Credit: Canva

Sloppy joes bring a sweet and tangy sauce over browned beef, all piled onto a soft bun. This version keeps things simple and quick without losing any of the classic flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 hamburger buns

Instructions

  • Brown the beef and onion together in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce
  • Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring often
  • Toast the buns lightly if you like
  • Spoon the beef mixture onto the buns and serve
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories390
Protein22g
Carbs38g
Fat16g

For recipe: [Classic Beef Sloppy Joes]

4. Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Photo Credit: ichef.bbci.co.uk

Ground beef swaps in for the usual sliced steak, making this stir fry faster and cheaper to prepare. The sauce is salty, a bit sweet, and coats every bite of broccoli and beef.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

  • Brown the beef in a large skillet or wok, then drain the fat
  • Add garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute
  • Add broccoli and a splash of water, then cover and steam for 4 minutes
  • Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water in a small bowl
  • Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir until it thickens
  • Serve hot over rice
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories350
Protein26g
Carbs18g
Fat20g

For recipe: [Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry]

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed Bell Peppers
Photo Credit:hearstapps

Bell peppers get filled with a savory mix of beef, rice, and tomato sauce, then baked until tender. Each pepper turns into its own little meal, bright and satisfying.

Ingredients

  • 4 bell peppers, tops cut off and seeded
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F
  • Brown the beef and onion in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in the rice, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper
  • Spoon the mixture into each pepper
  • Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil
  • Bake for 30 minutes, then top with cheese and bake 10 more minutes uncovered
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories340
Protein24g
Carbs22g
Fat16g

For recipe: [Stuffed Bell Peppers]

6. Beef Enchilada Casserole

Beef Enchilada Casserole
Photo Credit:modernhoney

Layers of tortillas, beef, and enchilada sauce build this casserole like a lasagna. Every bite carries a warm, smoky flavor with plenty of melted cheese on top.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 2 cups enchilada sauce
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 can black beans, drained

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F
  • Brown the beef and onion in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in the black beans and half the enchilada sauce
  • Spread a thin layer of sauce in a baking dish
  • Layer tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese, repeating twice
  • Top with remaining sauce and cheese, then bake for 25 minutes
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories460
Protein27g
Carbs30g
Fat25g

For recipe: [Beef Enchilada Casserole]

7. Homestyle Meatloaf

Homestyle Meatloaf
Photo Credit: myhomemaderoots

A simple glaze and a soft breadcrumb mixture keep this meatloaf moist. It bakes low and slow, filling the kitchen with a homey smell.

Ingredients

  • 1 and 1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon mustard

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F
  • Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, and onion in a large bowl
  • Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish
  • Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the glaze
  • Spread the glaze over the loaf
  • Bake for 55 minutes, then rest for 10 minutes before slicing
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories410
Protein28g
Carbs20g
Fat23g

For recipe: [Homestyle Meatloaf]

8. Beef and Bean Chili

Beef and Bean Chili
Photo Credit: Canva

Thick, hearty, and full of warm spice, this chili simmers on the stove until the flavors blend into one rich bowl of comfort.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, 14 ounces
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 cup beef broth

Instructions

  • Brown the beef and onion in a large pot, then drain the fat
  • Stir in chili powder and cumin
  • Add the tomatoes, beans, and broth
  • Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 30 minutes
  • Stir occasionally and add water if it gets too thick
  • Serve with shredded cheese or crackers
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories380
Protein26g
Carbs28g
Fat17g

For recipe: [Beef and Bean Chili]

9. Cheeseburger Casserole

Cheeseburger Casserole
Photo Credit: Canva

A classic cheeseburger turns into a comforting casserole in this bake. Ground beef, pasta, and melted cheese come together in one dish, no bun needed.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 can tomato soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F
  • Cook the macaroni according to package directions, then drain
  • Brown the beef and onion in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in tomato soup and milk
  • Combine the beef mixture with the macaroni in a baking dish
  • Top with cheese and bake for 20 minutes
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories450
Protein25g
Carbs36g
Fat22g

For recipe: [Cheeseburger Casserole]

10. Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff
Photo Credit: Canva

Tender beef and mushrooms simmer in a creamy, tangy sauce. It spoons over egg noodles for a rich, filling dinner that feels a little fancy.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 8 ounces egg noodles

Instructions

  • Cook the egg noodles according to package directions, then drain
  • Brown the beef, onion, and mushrooms in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Sprinkle flour over the beef and stir well
  • Slowly pour in the broth, stirring until smooth
  • Simmer for 8 minutes, then stir in the sour cream
  • Serve the sauce over the noodles
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories470
Protein27g
Carbs33g
Fat26g

For recipe: [Beef Stroganoff]

11. Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Photo Credit: Canva

A simple, honest plate of spaghetti gets covered in a slow-simmered meat sauce. The sauce turns rich and deep the longer it cooks.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 jar marinara sauce, 24 ounces
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  • Cook the spaghetti according to package directions, then drain
  • Brown the beef, onion, and garlic in a large pot, then drain the fat
  • Stir in the marinara sauce and oregano
  • Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally
  • Serve the sauce over the spaghetti
  • Top with Parmesan cheese
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories520
Protein28g
Carbs58g
Fat19g

For recipe: [Spaghetti with Meat Sauce]

12. Crunchy Beef Tacos

Crunchy Beef Tacos
Photo Credit: Canva

These tacos pack seasoned beef, crisp lettuce, and melted cheese into a crunchy shell. Every bite gives a mix of warm and cool textures.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 8 taco shells
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • Sour cream, for serving

Instructions

  • Brown the beef in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water
  • Simmer for 5 minutes
  • Warm the taco shells in the oven for 5 minutes
  • Fill each shell with beef, lettuce, cheese, and tomato
  • Top with sour cream and serve
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories400
Protein24g
Carbs26g
Fat22g

For recipe: [Crunchy Beef Tacos]

13. Shepherd’s Pie

Seasoned beef and vegetables sit under a blanket of creamy mashed potatoes in this pie. It bakes until the top turns golden and slightly crisp.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 3 cups mashed potatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F
  • Brown the beef and onion in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Sprinkle flour over the beef and stir
  • Add the broth and vegetables, then simmer for 5 minutes
  • Spread the beef mixture in a baking dish
  • Top with mashed potatoes and cheese, then bake for 20 minutes
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories430
Protein24g
Carbs32g
Fat22g

For recipe: [Shepherd’s Pie]

14. Beef and Vegetable Soup

Beef and Vegetable Soup
Photo Credit: Canva

Light but filling, this soup packs tender beef and soft vegetables into a savory broth. It works well for cold nights or a quick lunch the next day.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 cup diced potatoes
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, 14 ounces
  • 1 small onion, chopped

Instructions

  • Brown the beef and onion in a large pot, then drain the fat
  • Add the broth, tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, and celery
  • Bring to a boil, then lower the heat
  • Simmer for 25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender
  • Season with salt and pepper
  • Serve hot with crusty bread
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories290
Protein22g
Carbs20g
Fat13g

For recipe: [Beef and Vegetable Soup]

15. Salisbury Steak

Salisbury Steak
Photo Credit: Canva

These beef patties get smothered in a rich brown gravy with mushrooms and onions. It feels like a diner classic made right at home.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons flour

Instructions

  • Mix the beef, breadcrumbs, and egg, then shape into 4 patties
  • Cook the patties in a skillet until browned, then set aside
  • Add the onion and mushrooms to the skillet and cook until soft
  • Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir
  • Slowly pour in the broth, stirring until it thickens
  • Return the patties to the skillet and simmer for 10 minutes
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories380
Protein27g
Carbs14g
Fat24g

For recipe: [Salisbury Steak]

16. Beef Fried Rice

Beef Fried Rice
Photo Credit: Canva

Ground beef stands in for the usual cubed protein in this fried rice, making it quick to cook. Leftover rice works best for a firmer bite.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 3 cups cooked rice, cold
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions

  • Brown the beef in a large skillet or wok, then drain the fat
  • Push the beef to one side and scramble the eggs on the other side
  • Add the rice and peas and carrots
  • Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then stir well
  • Cook for 5 minutes, stirring often
  • Top with green onions before serving
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories440
Protein24g
Carbs38g
Fat20g

For recipe: [Beef Fried Rice]

17. Cabbage Roll Casserole

Cabbage Roll Casserole
Photo Credit: Canva

The flavors of a stuffed cabbage roll turn into a simple layered bake here. It saves time without losing the cozy, savory taste.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 4 cups chopped cabbage
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 can tomato sauce, 15 ounces
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F
  • Brown the beef and onion in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in the rice, paprika, and half the tomato sauce
  • Layer the cabbage and beef mixture in a baking dish
  • Pour the remaining tomato sauce on top
  • Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories320
Protein22g
Carbs24g
Fat15g

For recipe: [Cabbage Roll Casserole]

18. Beef Quesadillas

Beef Quesadillas
Photo Credit: barefeetinthekitchen

These quesadillas pack seasoned beef and melted cheese between crisp tortillas. They cook fast and cut into neat wedges for easy serving.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 8 flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon oil

Instructions

  • Brown the beef in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water, then simmer for 5 minutes
  • Place cheese and beef on half of each tortilla, then fold over
  • Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat
  • Cook each quesadilla until golden on both sides
  • Cut into wedges and serve
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories470
Protein26g
Carbs30g
Fat27g

For recipe: [Beef Quesadillas]

19. Baked Ziti with Beef

Baked Ziti with Beef
Photo Credit: mealsbymolly

Layers of ziti, beef, and ricotta sit under a blanket of melted mozzarella in this baked pasta. It bakes until bubbly and golden on top.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 jar marinara sauce, 24 ounces
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F
  • Cook the ziti according to package directions, then drain
  • Brown the beef in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning
  • Mix the pasta, beef sauce, and ricotta in a baking dish
  • Top with mozzarella and bake for 25 minutes
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories530
Protein30g
Carbs48g
Fat24g

For recipe: [Baked Ziti with Beef]

20. Beef and Potato Hash

Beef and Potato Hash
Photo Credit: Canva

Beef and potatoes brown together in one skillet until crisp on the edges. It works well for dinner or even a hearty breakfast.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 3 cups diced potatoes
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat
  • Add the potatoes and cook for 10 minutes, stirring often
  • Push the potatoes aside and brown the beef and onion
  • Stir everything together and season with paprika, salt, and pepper
  • Cook for 5 more minutes until the potatoes turn golden
  • Serve hot straight from the skillet
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories400
Protein22g
Carbs30g
Fat21g

For recipe: [Beef and Potato Hash]

21. Mongolian Style Beef Noodles

Mongolian Style Beef Noodles
Photo Credit: Canva

Ground beef and noodles get coated in a sweet and savory sauce inspired by Mongolian beef. It comes together faster than the takeout version.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 8 ounces noodles
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

  • Cook the noodles according to package directions, then drain
  • Brown the beef and garlic in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch in a small bowl
  • Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir until it thickens
  • Add the noodles and toss to coat
  • Top with green onions before serving
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories460
Protein24g
Carbs42g
Fat20g

For recipe: [Mongolian Style Beef Noodles]

22. Loaded Beef Nachos

Loaded Beef Nachos
Photo Credit: Canva

These nachos pile crisp chips high with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings. They work well for a laid-back dinner shared right off the tray.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 bag tortilla chips
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 can black beans, drained
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • Sour cream and salsa, for serving

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F
  • Brown the beef in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water, then simmer for 5 minutes
  • Spread chips on a baking sheet
  • Top with beef, beans, and cheese
  • Bake for 10 minutes, then add tomato, sour cream, and salsa
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories520
Protein26g
Carbs38g
Fat30g

For recipe: [Loaded Beef Nachos]

23. Zucchini Beef Boats

Zucchini Beef Boats
Photo Credit: Canva

These zucchini halves get hollowed out and filled with seasoned beef and cheese. They bake until tender, offering a lighter twist on a beef dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchini, halved and hollowed
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F
  • Brown the beef and onion in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning
  • Spoon the mixture into the zucchini halves
  • Place them on a baking sheet and top with cheese
  • Bake for 25 minutes, until the zucchini turns tender
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories310
Protein24g
Carbs12g
Fat19g

For recipe: [Zucchini Beef Boats]

24. Beef Chili Mac

Beef Chili Mac
Photo Credit: McCormick

Chili and macaroni blend into one thick, cheesy pot here. It gives you the comfort of chili with the fun of pasta in a single bowl.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, 14 ounces
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups beef broth

Instructions

  • Brown the beef in a large pot, then drain the fat
  • Stir in chili powder, tomatoes, beans, and broth
  • Bring to a boil, then add the macaroni
  • Lower the heat and simmer for 12 minutes, stirring often
  • Remove from heat once the pasta is tender
  • Stir in the cheese and serve warm
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories480
Protein27g
Carbs40g
Fat22g

For recipe: [Beef Chili Mac]

25. Swedish Style Meatballs

Swedish Style Meatballs
Photo Credit: Sweden

These meatballs simmer in a creamy, savory gravy that pairs well with egg noodles or mashed potatoes. The flavor is rich without being heavy.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions

  • Mix the beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and milk, then shape into small meatballs
  • Cook the meatballs in a skillet until browned on all sides
  • Remove the meatballs and set aside
  • Sprinkle flour into the skillet drippings and stir
  • Slowly pour in the broth, then stir in the sour cream
  • Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 10 minutes
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories420
Protein25g
Carbs16g
Fat27g

For recipe: [Swedish Style Meatballs]

26. Beef Burrito Bowls

Beef Burrito Bowls
Photo Credit: hips.hearstapps

These bowls layer seasoned beef, rice, beans, and fresh toppings for a build-your-own style dinner. Everyone can pick what goes on top.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 can black beans, drained
  • 1 cup corn
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • Salsa and shredded cheese, for topping

Instructions

  • Brown the beef in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water, then simmer for 5 minutes
  • Warm the beans and corn in a small pot
  • Spoon rice into bowls
  • Top with beef, beans, corn, and lettuce
  • Finish with salsa and cheese
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories450
Protein26g
Carbs44g
Fat17g

For recipe: [Beef Burrito Bowls]

27. Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Photo Credit: hips.hearstapps

These handheld pastries pack a savory beef and cheese filling inside a golden, flaky shell. They work well warm or packed for lunch the next day.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 2 packages empanada dough rounds
  • 1 egg, beaten for brushing

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F
  • Brown the beef and onion in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in cumin and let the mixture cool slightly
  • Spoon beef and cheese onto each dough round, then fold and seal the edges
  • Brush the tops with beaten egg
  • Bake for 20 minutes, until golden brown
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories390
Protein18g
Carbs28g
Fat22g

For recipe: [Beef and Cheese Empanadas]

28. Beef and Corn Skillet

Beef and Corn Skillet
Photo Credit: mojo.generalmills

Beef, sweet corn, and a light tomato sauce blend into a quick, colorful skillet dinner. It needs just one pan and about twenty minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 cups corn kernels
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, 14 ounces
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  • Brown the beef and onion in a large skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in the corn, tomatoes, and paprika
  • Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally
  • Sprinkle cheese on top
  • Cover until the cheese melts
  • Serve warm with rice or bread
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories380
Protein24g
Carbs26g
Fat19g

For recipe: [Beef and Corn Skillet]

29. Philly Style Beef Sandwiches

Philly Style Beef Sandwiches
Photo Credit: mapleleafhh

These sandwiches load seasoned beef, peppers, and onions onto a toasted roll with melted cheese. The flavor brings the classic Philly favorite to a quick weeknight version.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 4 hoagie rolls
  • 4 slices provolone cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Brown the beef in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Add the pepper and onion and cook until soft
  • Season with salt and pepper
  • Toast the hoagie rolls lightly
  • Fill each roll with the beef mixture
  • Top with provolone cheese and let it melt before serving
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories440
Protein27g
Carbs30g
Fat24g

For recipe: [Philly Style Beef Sandwiches]

30. Beef Lasagna Roll Ups

Beef Lasagna Roll Ups
Photo Credit: budgetbytes

These roll-ups wrap a beef and ricotta filling inside cooked lasagna noodles, then bake in marinara sauce. They plate up neat and look fancier than they are to make.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 jar marinara sauce, 24 ounces
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F
  • Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions, then drain
  • Brown the beef in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Mix the beef with ricotta and Italian seasoning
  • Spread the filling on each noodle and roll it up
  • Place rolls in a baking dish with sauce and cheese, then bake for 25 minutes
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories460
Protein28g
Carbs36g
Fat22g

For recipe: [Beef Lasagna Roll Ups]

31. Beef and Rice Skillet

Beef and Rice Skillet
Photo Credit: Canva

Browned beef, rice, and tomatoes come together in one pan for a comforting, cheesy bowl. The top turns soft and melted, and the flavor stays warm and savory. It comes together fast and uses pantry staples you likely already have.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, 14 ounces
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium heat, then drain the fat
  • Add the onion and garlic and cook until soft
  • Stir in the rice, broth, and tomatoes
  • Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender
  • Sprinkle cheese on top and cover until melted
  • Season with salt and pepper before serving
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories420
Protein27g
Carbs34g
Fat19g

For recipe: [Beef and Rice Skillet]

32. Beef Pot Pie

Beef Pot Pie
Photo Credit: flavorbible

This pot pie tucks seasoned beef and vegetables under a flaky crust. It bakes until golden, giving you a warm and filling dinner in one dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 and 1/2 cups beef broth
  • 1 pie crust, store-bought or homemade

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F
  • Brown the beef and onion in a skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in the vegetables and flour
  • Slowly pour in the broth, stirring until it thickens
  • Pour the filling into a pie dish and top with crust
  • Bake for 25 minutes, until the crust turns golden
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories440
Protein22g
Carbs28g
Fat26g

For recipe: [Beef Pot Pie]

33. Beef and Pepper Fajitas

Beef and Pepper Fajitas
Photo Credit: ichef.bbc.co.uk

These fajitas bring sizzling beef and colorful peppers together with warm tortillas. The smoky spice blend gives this dish a bold, satisfying flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 8 small flour tortillas
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  • Brown the beef in a large skillet, then drain the fat
  • Stir in chili powder and cumin
  • Add the peppers and onion, then cook until soft
  • Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or the oven
  • Spoon the beef mixture into each tortilla
  • Squeeze lime juice on top before serving
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories410
Protein25g
Carbs30g
Fat20g

For recipe: [Beef and Pepper Fajitas]

34. Beef Meatball Subs

Beef Meatball Subs
Photo Credit: beeflovingtexans

These subs load tender meatballs and marinara sauce onto a toasted roll, finished with melted cheese. It gives you a hearty, messy, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 4 sub rolls
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F
  • Mix the beef, breadcrumbs, and egg, then shape into small meatballs
  • Brown the meatballs in a skillet, then add the marinara sauce
  • Simmer for 15 minutes, until the meatballs cook through
  • Split the sub rolls and fill with meatballs and sauce
  • Top with mozzarella and bake for 5 minutes, until melted
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories500
Protein28g
Carbs38g
Fat26g

For recipe: [Beef Meatball Subs]

35. Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Photo Credit: emeals-menubuilder

This skillet pairs savory beef with sweet, tender chunks of sweet potato for a dish that balances rich and mild flavors. It works well as a full meal on its own.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 cups diced sweet potato
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat
  • Add the sweet potato and cook for 10 minutes, stirring often
  • Push the sweet potato aside and brown the beef and onion
  • Stir everything together and season with paprika, salt, and pepper
  • Cook for 5 more minutes, until the sweet potato turns tender
  • Serve hot straight from the skillet
NutrientAmount per serving
Calories390
Protein23g
Carbs28g
Fat20g

For recipe: [Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet]

Claudia Dionigi

Claudia Dionigi

I’m the face, heart, and keyboard behind Stellar Raccoon.

For the past 12 years, I’ve turned my obsession with storytelling, tech, and the vibrant chaos of New York City into a lifestyle blog that’s equal parts relatable and revolutionary. Read More!