Introduction

Ground beef is a staple ingredient in many households, but sometimes it can be difficult to come up with new and exciting recipes to use it in. Whether you have some ground beef in the fridge that you need to use up or are looking for some inspiration, this article has got you covered. Here, we’ll explore a variety of quick and easy, healthy, and unconventional recipes that will take your ground beef game to the next level.

Five Quick and Easy Ground Beef Recipes

If you’re short on time or looking for something simple, these five recipes are perfect for you. With minimal ingredients and step-by-step instructions, they’re a great way to make the most of your ground beef.

Meat Sauce

A classic pasta sauce that never goes out of style. This recipe is packed full of flavor and can be served with any type of pasta you like.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz. can of crushed tomatoes
– 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Meatloaf

A classic comfort food that’s easy to make and great for leftovers.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, salt, and pepper.
3. Form the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
4. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Beef Empanadas

A delicious and portable option that’s perfect for lunch or a quick snack.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
– 1 egg, beaten

Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
4. Unroll the pie crusts and cut them into 4-inch circles.
5. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto each circle.
6. Brush the edges of the circles with the beaten egg and fold them in half to create a crescent shape.
7. Use a fork to crimp the edges of the empanadas.
8. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the tops with more beaten egg.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

A healthy and colorful option that’s perfect for a family dinner.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 4 bell peppers
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
4. Add the onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cooked rice.
6. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers and place them in a baking dish.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.

Other Creative Recipes

There are countless recipes you can make with ground beef! Some other ideas to try include:
– Tacos
– Sloppy Joes
– Chili
– Beef and broccoli stir-fry
– Shepherd’s pie

Cooking with Ground Beef: A Beginner’s Guide

If you’re new to cooking with ground beef, it can seem daunting at first. But don’t worry! With these tips and simple recipes, you’ll be a pro in no time.

The Basics of Cooking with Ground Beef

Before you start cooking, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

– Choose ground beef that is at least 85% lean. This will ensure that your dish isn’t too greasy.
– Don’t overcook the beef. Ground beef cooks quickly, so make sure you don’t leave it on the heat for too long.
– Drain any excess fat. After cooking the beef, strain it in a colander to remove any fat that has accumulated.

Safety Tips for Handling and Cooking Ground Beef

Raw ground beef can contain harmful bacteria, so it’s important to handle and cook it properly to prevent foodborne illness.

– Keep the beef refrigerated until you’re ready to use it.
– Use a separate cutting board and utensils for the beef to avoid cross-contamination.
– Cook ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F.
– Wash your hands and any surfaces that come into contact with the beef thoroughly after handling.

Simple Recipes for Beginners to Try

If you’re just starting out, these recipes are great for beginners:

– Spaghetti and meatballs
– Beef and vegetable stir-fry
– Beef and mushroom stroganoff
– Meaty spaghetti sauce
– Beef and black bean chili

Highlight the Versatility of Ground Beef

One of the great things about ground beef is how versatile it is. It can be used in a variety of dishes, from tacos to spaghetti sauce to lasagna. You can also experiment with different seasonings and flavorings to create your own unique recipes.

One-Pot Wonders: Ground Beef Edition

If you hate doing dishes, one-pot meals are your best friend. These five recipes require minimal cleanup and are packed full of flavor.

Beef and Vegetable Stir Fry

A healthy and colorful option that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 2 cups frozen vegetables (carrots, broccoli, and snow peas work well)
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 Tbsp. hoisin sauce
– 2 Tbsp. sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
2. Add the frozen vegetables, onion, and garlic and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Beef and Broccoli Casserole

A classic comfort food that’s perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 cup chopped broccoli
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add the onion, garlic, salt, and pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and chopped broccoli.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Beef and Mushroom Skillet

A flavorful and hearty option that’s perfect for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 2 cups sliced mushrooms
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
– 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
2. Add the mushrooms, onion, and garlic and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Beef and Noodle Soup

A comforting and satisfying option that’s perfect for a cold day.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 2 cups sliced carrots
– 2 cups chopped celery
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cups cooked egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
2. Add the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked egg noodles and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Other One-Pot Meal Ideas

Some other ideas for one-pot meals with ground beef include:
– Beef and potato stew
– Beef and sweet potato shepherd’s pie
– Beef and spinach lasagna
– Beef and black bean skillet
– Beef and vegetable soup

Think Outside the Bun: Unconventional Ground Beef Recipes

If you’re tired of the same old ground beef recipes, it’s time to think outside the box. These five recipes use ground beef in unexpected ways that are sure to impress.

Meatballs with Gravy

A hearty and comforting option that’s perfect for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the gravy:
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1/4 cup flour
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a greased baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, whisk together the beef broth, flour, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, whisking constantly, until the gravy has thickened.
7. Serve the meatballs with the gravy.

Stuffed Zucchini Boats

A healthy and flavorful option that’s perfect for a summer evening.

Ingredients:
– 4 large zucchini
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and flesh.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
4. Add the onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cooked rice.
6. Stuff the mixture into the zucchini boats and place them in a baking dish.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the filling is golden brown.

Korean Beef Bowls

A flavorful and spicy option that’s perfect for a quick dinner.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 Tbsp. sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice, for serving
– Sliced green onions, for garnish

Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
2. Add the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Serve the beef over cooked rice and garnish with sliced green onions.

Ground Beef and Cauliflower Soup

A healthy and nutritious option that’s perfect for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chopped cauliflower
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1.