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Deliciously Easy Ground Beef Recipes With Few Ingredients

Deliciously Easy Ground Beef Recipes With Few Ingredients

Ground beef is a versatile and budget-friendly ingredient that can be transformed into a variety of delicious meals with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to whip up something quick and satisfying, these easy ground beef recipes with few ingredients are sure to become staples in your kitchen. From comforting classics to international delights, these dishes are designed to please every palate while keeping preparation time to a minimum.

Flavorful Ground Beef Dishes for Busy Weeknights


When time is of the essence, having a repertoire of quick and easy ground beef recipes can be a lifesaver. Here are a few to get you started:

Classic Beef and Tomato Skillet

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Serve over rice or pasta for a complete meal.

Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 4 potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned. Layer the potatoes in a baking dish, season with salt and pepper, and top with the cooked beef. Pour the cream of mushroom soup over the beef and sprinkle with cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, removing the foil for the last 10 minutes to brown the cheese.

Quick and Easy Korean Ground Beef Recipe

This Korean-inspired dish is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that can be prepared in no time.

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Pour the sauce over the beef, stirring to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with steamed rice.

One-Pot Ground Beef Stroganoff: A Comfort Classic

This one-pot wonder combines the rich flavors of beef stroganoff with the convenience of easy cleanup.

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 2 cups egg noodles
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste

In a large pot, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion. Drain excess fat. Stir in the beef broth and cream of mushroom soup. Bring to a boil, then add the egg noodles. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until noodles are tender. Stir in sour cream, season with salt and pepper, and serve.

Crock Pot Ground Beef Recipes for Effortless Meals

Let your slow cooker do the work with these simple crock pot ground beef recipes, perfect for days when you want to set it and forget it.

Slow Cooker Beef Chili

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 packet chili seasoning mix

In a skillet, brown the ground beef. Transfer to a slow cooker and add the beans, tomatoes, and chili seasoning. Stir to combine, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Serve with cornbread or over rice.

Ground Beef Taco Soup

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 packet taco seasoning

Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Add to the slow cooker with corn, black beans, tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Mix well, cover, and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Top with cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips before serving.

Regional Variations: Ground Beef Recipes from Around the World

Explore global flavors with these easy-to-make ground beef recipes that require only a handful of ingredients.

Mexican Picadillo

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 potatoes, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Add the potatoes and onion, cooking until the potatoes are tender. Stir in the tomato sauce and raisins, seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes. Serve with tortillas or rice.

Italian Beef Ragu

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

In a large pot, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic. Add the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop. Season with salt and pepper. Serve over pasta or polenta.

5-Ingredient Ground Beef Recipes You Can Whip Up Fast

For those nights when you want a no-fuss meal, these recipes are the answer.

Beef and Cheese Quesadillas

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • Butter or oil for frying

Cook the ground beef in a skillet with taco seasoning. Spread beef and cheese on half of each tortilla, fold, and cook on a buttered skillet until crispy and golden. Slice and serve with salsa.

Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Add broccoli and cook until tender-crisp. Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch mixture, cooking until the sauce thickens. Serve over rice or noodles.

Common Mistakes & Fixes in Ground Beef Cooking

Even simple recipes can go awry. Here are some common mistakes and how to fix them:

  • Overcrowding the Pan: Leads to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches for better results.
  • Not Draining Fat: Can make dishes greasy. Always drain excess fat unless the recipe requires it.
  • Underseasoning: Ground beef needs ample seasoning. Taste and adjust as you cook.

How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef Dishes

Proper storage ensures your ground beef dishes remain delicious and safe to eat. Here’s how:

  • Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For freezing, allow dishes to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. Label and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat thoroughly before serving, either in the microwave or on the stovetop, ensuring the dish is heated evenly.

Recipe Styling Tips for Beautiful Ground Beef Meals

Presentation can elevate any dish. Here are some tips for styling your ground beef meals:

  • Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro as a garnish for a pop of color.
  • Serve in colorful bowls or plates to make the dish more visually appealing.
  • Add a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream for texture and flavor contrast.

With these easy ground beef recipes with few ingredients, you’ll have a variety of delicious options at your fingertips. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal, these recipes deliver on flavor and simplicity.

Serena River