Weeknights can feel like a race to the table. You want meals that are healthy, tasty, and ready fast. I created this post because I keep hunting for ground beef dinners that fit a busy life and still feel good to eat. Here is why this guide matters: simple, dependable dinners keep you from grabbing takeout and help your family eat better.
If you juggle work, kids, and a tight grocery bill, this one is for you. If you want meals that come together quickly, stay balanced, and use pantry staples, you’ll find ideas that fit. These recipes are built for real weeknights, not perfect Sundays.
Here you go: 25 healthy ground beef meals for easy weeknight dinners. Each option keeps prep simple and flavor big. Think one-pan skillets, quick pasta bowls, and veggie-packed bowls that kids actually like. From taco night to beef and broccoli, these meals use lean beef and smart add-ins to feed your family without extra fuss.
These meals are practical. Short grocery lists, friendly sauces, and flexible veggies let you adapt on the fly. Swap in turkey or chicken if you want, dial up or down the heat, or add more greens for fiber. I kept steps clear and timing honest so you cook with confidence.
Here is how to use this guide. Pick a meal that fits your evening, grab what you have, and go. Most options finish in about 30 minutes. If you have time, double a dinner on a busy night and save half for another night.
Cooking with ground beef should feel doable, not daunting. You’ll cut dinner stress, eat well, and still enjoy real flavor. Give one of these 25 healthy ground beef meals a try this week and see how easy weeknight dinners can be. I’d love to hear which one you pick or what you tweak to fit your family.
1. Quinoa & Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
You want weeknight meals that are easy, healthy, and satisfying. Quinoa and ground beef stuffed peppers fit that brief. Peppers act like edible bowls, colorful and fun. This combo saves time and stays friendly for kids, so here is why it works for busy families.
Here is the complete recipe you can follow tonight.
Recipe at a glance
– Servings: 4-6
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: about 350 per serving
– Nutrition: 25 g protein, 15 g carbs, 20 g fat
Ingredients
– 4 large bell peppers
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
1) Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2) Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds.
3) In a skillet, brown the ground beef and drain the fat.
4) Stir in cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5) Stuff the pepper shells with the filling and stand them upright in a baking dish.
6) Bake for 30 minutes. If you like cheese, add it on top in the last 5 minutes.
Tips and variations: Switch to brown rice if you prefer it. Add finely chopped onions or greens for extra flavor. Use a mix of red, yellow, and orange peppers for a colorful plate.
2. One-Pan Ground Beef & Veggie Stir-Fry
You need a weeknight meal that is fast, healthy, and easy to clean up. This one-pan ground beef stir-fry fits that need. It blends ground beef with a rainbow of vegetables for flavor and crunch. You get a filling dinner in about 25 minutes.
Here is the complete recipe you can start now.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
– Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and swirl in sesame oil.
2. Add garlic and ground beef; cook until browned, breaking the meat into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
3. Stir in the vegetables and soy sauce; cook 5–7 minutes until the veggies are crisp-tender.
4. Serve the stir-fry over rice or noodles. Top with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if you have them.
Tip: If you have frozen vegetables, you can use them directly. They save prep time and taste fine. A splash of rice vinegar at the end adds brightness.
3. Healthy Beef Tacos in Lettuce Wraps
Craving tacos but not the extra carbs? These Healthy Beef Tacos in Lettuce Wraps pack bold flavor with a light touch. Ground beef gets a quick taco seasoning and browns fast. It fills crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb hit. Toppings bring color and freshness—tomato, avocado, cheese, salsa, cilantro. This weeknight dinner is fast, easy, and still feels like a treat.
Here is why it fits your weeknights. It saves calories without losing taste. It keeps portions simple. It adds crunch and juiciness you expect from tacos.
Recipe Details
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 10 minutes
– Total Time: 20 minutes
– Calories: ~250 per serving
– Nutrition: 20g protein, 8g carbs, 15g fat
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 12 large lettuce leaves (romaine or butter)
– Toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, shredded cheese, salsa, cilantro
Instructions
1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add taco seasoning and follow package directions.
3. Spoon beef into lettuce leaves.
4. Top with toppings and enjoy.
Next steps: set out toppings in small bowls so everyone can mix their favorite flavors.
4. Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet
Want a quick, healthy dinner you can trust. The Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet gives comfort in one pan. Sweet potatoes bring fiber and a touch of natural sweetness. Ground beef adds protein and hearty flavor. It cooks in about 40 minutes and cleans up fast.
Let’s break it down. This dish blends soft potatoes with leafy greens. You can add bell peppers or kale for more color. It fits busy nights and growing appetites.
Complete Recipe
– Servings: 4
– Cook Time: 25 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
– Calories: about 400 per serving
– Protein: 30 g, Carbs: 35 g, Fat: 15 g
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups spinach
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1) In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain the fat.
2) Add onion and sweet potatoes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender, about 12-15 minutes.
3) Stir in spinach, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until spinach wilts.
4) Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm.
Optional: mix in peppers or kale for extra color.
FAQ: Is this meal freezable? Yes. It keeps well in the freezer for about a month.
5. Zucchini Noodles with Ground Beef Marinara
You want pasta flavor without the heaviness. Zucchini noodles, or zoodles, give a light bite and bright color. Ground beef marinara makes a satisfying weeknight meal in under 30 minutes. This plan keeps carbs in check while still delivering comfort.
Next steps. Here is why this works on busy nights: you get protein, veg, and big flavor in one skillet.
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
– Calories: ~300 per serving
– Nutrition: 28g protein, 10g carbs, 18g fat
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized
– 1 jar marinara sauce
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
1. Pat the zucchini dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain the fat.
3. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer 10 minutes to blend flavors.
4. Add zoodles to the skillet. Cook 2–3 minutes, until tender but still a bit crisp.
Tips: For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or a sprinkle of parmesan at the end. If you like more sauce, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it a bit.
Frequently asked questions: Can I use pesto instead of marinara? Yes, pesto works, but it changes the flavor profile.
6. Ground Beef & Spinach Casserole
Weeknights are busy. You want a meal that is simple and healthy. This ground beef and spinach casserole fits. It is creamy, cheesy, and full of greens.
Complete Recipe
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 55 minutes
– Calories: about 450 per serving
Nutrition: 35g protein, 25g carbs, 20g fat. A balanced meal with plenty of greens.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups spinach
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
3. In a large bowl, mix beef, spinach, rice, yogurt, and half of the cheese.
4. Pour the mix into a baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
Optional: add mushrooms or bell peppers for more flavor and color.
Tips and options
– To switch to a vegetarian version, swap lentils or mushrooms for the beef.
– You can use white or brown rice. Brown rice adds more fiber.
7. Ground Beef & Black Bean Chili
Stuck on weeknights that need a quick, healthy dinner? This Ground Beef and Black Bean Chili fits the bill. It blends lean beef with sturdy black beans in a single pot. The result is cozy and protein packed, yet light on fuss. It’s easy to double for leftovers or meal prep.
Recipe snapshot
– Servings: 6
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cook time: 30 minutes
– Total time: 40 minutes
– Calories: ~350 per serving
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado slices, cilantro, lime wedges
– Optional add-ins: 1 cup frozen corn
Instructions
1. In a large pot, brown the beef with the onion. Drain the fat.
2. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Simmer about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and flavorful.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Serve with the toppings you like.
Serving tips
Top with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for brightness. A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad makes a complete meal.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I add corn? A: Yes. Add frozen corn in the last 5 minutes for extra sweetness and color.
8. Beef & Veggie Sheet Pan Fajitas
Want a weeknight dinner that comes together fast and tastes great? You got it. Beef and veggie sheet pan fajitas use ground beef and a rainbow of peppers on one pan. It bakes in under 20 minutes, and cleanup is a breeze. You get bold, satisfying flavor without hours at the stove.
Here is why: one pan, hot oven, and simple seasonings lock in taste. You skip extra pots and still feed the family. Plus a squeeze of lime and your favorite toppings lift every bite.
Next steps: tailor toppings to your taste and swap in chicken or turkey if you want a lighter option.
Recipe details
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
– Calories: ~350 per serving
– Nutrition: 28g protein, 15g carbs, 20g fat
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp fajita seasoning
– Tortillas for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a sheet pan, spread ground beef, peppers, and onion. Sprinkle fajita seasoning. Toss lightly to mix.
3. Bake 20 minutes, stirring halfway through for even color.
4. Finish with a squeeze of lime and serve with tortillas and your favorite toppings.
9. Beef & Cauliflower Rice Bowl
If you want a quick, healthy weeknight meal, this beef and cauliflower rice bowl fits the bill. It stays light but fills you up, thanks to protein plus colorful veggies. Cauliflower rice acts as a tasty low carb swap for regular rice. You get bold flavor from soy sauce and a satisfying bite from the vegetables.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 bag cauliflower rice
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, etc.)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– Green onions, sliced, for garnish
– Optional: chili sauce for heat
Instructions
1) In a skillet, brown the beef over medium heat. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Let it brown fully to deepen flavor, then drain excess fat.
2) Add the cauliflower rice and vegetables. Cook, stirring often, until the veggies are tender and the cauliflower looks translucent, about 5–7 minutes.
3) Stir in the soy sauce. Cook 1–2 more minutes so the flavors blend and the beef picks up a little salt.
4) Serve in bowls. Top with green onions. If you like spice, a splash of chili sauce adds a bright kick.
Tips
– Leftovers reheat well in a skillet for a quick next-day meal.
– Swap in any favorite vegetables to match what you have on hand.
10. Greek Beef Meatballs with Tzatziki
Crave a quick, fresh dinner that feeds your family and your taste buds? These Greek beef meatballs do the trick. They stay juicy, with a soft crumb and a hint of oregano. You bake them for a clean kitchen and even timing. A cooling tzatziki pulls it all together, giving you a Mediterranean feel in every bite.
<Complete Recipe>
<Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (for tzatziki)
– 1 cucumber, shredded
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
<Instructions
1) Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2) In a bowl, mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper until just combined.
3) Shape the mix into meatballs about 1.5 inches wide. Place on a baking sheet. Bake 18–22 minutes until browned and cooked through.
4) For tzatziki, combine yogurt, shredded cucumber, garlic, and dill. Add a pinch of salt; stir until smooth.
5) Serve meatballs warm with tzatziki on the side. Pita bread makes a full, simple meal.
These meatballs are easy to customize. Try adding a pinch of lemon zest or a little chopped parsley for a brighter taste. They fit busy weeknights and still feel like a special, fresh dish. Perfect for a family dinner or a quick meal prep option.
11. Ground Beef & Egg Casserole
You want a fast, comforting dinner that fills you up.
Here is why this ground beef and egg casserole works for you.
It blends beef, eggs, and greens in one dish and is great for breakfast for dinner.
You can bake it once and heat portions later for busy nights.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup spinach, chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned; drain fat.
3. In a bowl, whisk eggs and milk; season with salt and pepper.
4. In a baking dish, layer beef, spinach, and cheese; pour egg mixture on top.
5. Bake 25-30 minutes, until eggs are set.
6. Let cool 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Variations
– Swap spinach with kale or bell peppers for a different texture.
– Add diced tomatoes for color and extra moisture.
Meal prep tips
– Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days.
– Freeze slices for up to 2 months.
12. Beef & Lentil Stew
Beef and lentil stew is a cozy, easy weeknight dinner. It packs protein from beef and fiber from lentils. The house fills with the scent of onions and thyme as it simmers. This one pot meal feeds a family and still leaves you time for tomorrow.
Here is why it helps your weeknights: one pot, simple steps, and big flavor. It freezes well, so you can make a double batch and save time later. Pair it with crusty bread to dip and soak up the broth.
Beef & Lentil Stew
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup lentils
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
– 1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain the fat.
– 2. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until they soften.
– 3. Stir in lentils, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
– 4. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat. Simmer for 30–35 minutes until lentils are tender.
– 5. Taste and adjust salt. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Nutrition: About 400 calories per serving. Protein 30 g, carbs 35 g, fat 15 g.
Frequently asked questions:
Is this freezable? Yes. It freezes well and reheats easily.
13. Beef & Barley Soup
Feeling stuck choosing weeknight meals? Beef and barley soup is simple and warm, yet full of good stuff. It pairs lean ground beef with pearl barley and vegetables to make a hearty one-pot dinner. You get protein, fiber, and comfort in a single pot. Here is why this works on busy nights: you get a complete meal in under an hour, little cleanup, and flavors the whole family enjoys.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 carrots, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 tsp thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a large pot, brown the beef over medium heat until no pink remains.
2. Add onion and carrot; cook until they soften and sweeten, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in barley, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until barley is tender and the soup thickens.
Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days, or you can freeze them for later meals. You can also add extra veggies like celery or mushrooms for more color and nutrition.
14. Beef & Mushroom Stroganoff
Need a cozy weeknight dinner that feels special but stays simple? Beef and mushroom stroganoff fits that need and saves you time. Ground beef cooks fast, the mushrooms bring earthiness, and a creamy sour cream sauce ties it all together. This recipe uses a few affordable ingredients and makes enough for four hungry people.
Complete recipe
– Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 cups egg noodles (or whole wheat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles until al dente, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and onion, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the meat is browned and crumbly, with the onions translucent.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and turn golden, about 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Lower the heat to simmer. Stir in the sour cream and mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy, then simmer a minute to blend flavors. Do not let it boil.
5. Serve the sauce over the noodles and toss gently to coat.
– Tips:
– For a lighter version, use low-fat sour cream.
15. Beef & Cabbage Stir-Fry
Weeknights demand meals that cook fast and taste real. This beef and cabbage stir-fry covers both. It uses lean ground beef and crisp cabbage for protein and fiber, with simple seasonings you already have. It’s budget friendly and helps you use up leftovers. It stays low in carbs, so it fits a light dinner plan.
It works because it cooks in one skillet and comes together in about 20 minutes. The cabbage adds texture and a fresh bite, while ginger and soy give you a bright, savory glaze. If you like heat, a pinch of chili flakes wakes things up.
Complete recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp ginger, minced
– Optional: pinch of chili flakes
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook beef until browned. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
2. Add onion; cook until it softens and starts to sweeten.
3. Stir in cabbage, soy sauce, and minced ginger. Cook, stirring, until cabbage is tender and flavors meld.
4. Taste and adjust with more soy or chili flakes if you want extra heat. Remove from heat and serve.
Tips:
– Swap in ground turkey for a lighter option.
– Add sliced peppers or carrots for extra crunch.
– Reheat well for next-day lunches.
16. Beef & Potato Hash
Need a quick, tasty meal when time is tight? This Beef & Potato Hash fits weeknights. With a single pan and simple ingredients, you get a hearty dish in about 30 minutes. It works for breakfast or dinner and fills your kitchen with a warm, savory scent. Here is the complete recipe you can trust.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned; drain fat.
2. Add potatoes, onion, and bell pepper. Cook until potatoes are tender and edges are crisp.
3. Season with salt and pepper; stir to blend flavors.
4. Optional: top with a fried egg if you want extra protein. Serve warm.
If you love a veggie boost, try mushrooms or spinach tossed in at the end. Next steps: keep leftovers in the fridge, reheat gently, and enjoy.
17. Ground Beef & Vegetable Soup
This ground beef and vegetable soup is light yet filling. It’s easy to make on busy weeknights and helps you use up veggies from the fridge. The broth feels cozy, and the flavors come together fast. You get protein, fiber, and texture in every bowl.
Here are the exact steps and ingredients so you can cook this tonight.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon dried oregano or basil for extra flavor
Instructions
1. In a pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain the fat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Stir in beef broth and mixed vegetables. Bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer about 20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and the optional herbs.
Nutrition and calories
Calories: about 300 per serving. Nutrition: 25 g protein, 15 g carbs, 10 g fat.
18. Beef & Chickpea Curry
You want a weeknight meal that is easy, tasty, and filling. This beef and chickpea curry nails that. The chickpeas give bite and fiber, while beef adds depth and richness. It fills the kitchen with warm coconut and curry aroma as it simmers, and it serves four with rice or naan.
Recipe at a glance
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: ~400 per serving
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 onion, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions
1. In a pot, cook ground beef until browned; drain fat.
2. Add onion and cook until soft.
3. Stir in chickpeas, coconut milk, curry powder, and salt.
4. Simmer for 20 minutes until thickened. Optional: add a splash of lime juice or fresh cilantro to brighten the dish.
Serving ideas
– Serve over steamed rice or with warm naan to soak up extra sauce.
– Top with chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it vegetarian? Yes. Omit the beef and add more chickpeas or lentils to keep the protein up.
19. Beef & Spinach Stuffed Shells
You want a weeknight dinner that is easy, healthy, and a crowd pleaser, not a kitchen marathon. Beef and spinach stuffed shells fit the bill because they offer creamy cheese, soft pasta, and greens in one dish. They taste creamy and cheesy, with a bright pop from spinach, and the filling stays moist in every bite. Plus, you get good protein, greens, and simple steps you can reuse next week for a family friendly menu.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 12 large pasta shells
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup spinach, chopped
– 1 jar marinara sauce
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Optional: 1 tsp Italian seasoning, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1) Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2) Cook shells in salted water until al dente; drain.
3) In a bowl, mix beef, ricotta, spinach, and half the marinara sauce.
4) Stuff shells with filling. Place in a baking dish. Pour remaining marinara over tops.
5) Sprinkle mozzarella. Bake 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6) Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Leftovers reheat easily for lunch the next day.
20. Beef & Pea Risotto
Want a comforting weeknight dinner that still feels special? Beef and pea risotto gives creaminess without a long kitchen timer. You get tender ground beef, silky arborio rice, and bright peas in every bite. It tastes indulgent but stays simple for busy nights.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups arborio rice
– 4 cups broth (beef or vegetable)
– 1 cup peas
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1) In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2) Add the onion and cook until soft.
3) Stir in the arborio rice and toast for about 1 minute.
4) Pour in 1 cup of broth and stir until it’s absorbed.
5) Add the remaining broth gradually, stirring often. This takes about 18–20 minutes and the mix should turn creamy.
6) Stir in the peas and parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
7) Serve right away. For extra creaminess, whisk in a small knob of butter off the heat.
FAQ: Can I add other veggies? Mushrooms or spinach work well with this dish.
21. Beef & Vegetable Kebabs
Stuck choosing a quick, healthy weeknight dinner? Beef and vegetable kebabs fit the bill. They cook fast and stay bright with color. Ground beef pairs with crisp peppers and zucchini for flavor in every bite. Next, you’ll see exactly how to make them.
Here is the complete recipe with all the basics so you can cook with confidence.
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
– Calories: ~350 per serving
– Nutrition: 30g protein, 15g carbs, 20g fat
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 Tbsp barbecue sauce
– Skewers
Instructions
1) Preheat grill to 400°F (200°C) or oven to 400°F.
2) In a bowl, you mix ground beef with barbecue sauce, salt, and pepper.
3) Form small meatballs and thread onto skewers, alternating with vegetables.
4) Grill 15 minutes, turning once, until beef is cooked through. If you bake, cook 15 minutes on a sheet pan, turning once.
Tip: Soak wooden skewers in water before grilling to prevent burning.
Next steps: serve with a green salad or a small portion of brown rice for a complete meal.
22. Ground Beef & Broccoli Bake
Need a weeknight dinner that is easy yet tasty? This Ground Beef & Broccoli Bake gives you a cheesy, comforting dish with a crisp topping. The broccoli adds color and crunch, while ricotta keeps the inside soft. It serves four and stores well for tomorrow.
Here is why this bake works for busy nights: it uses one pan, simple steps, and big flavor.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1 cup crushed crackers for topping
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain the fat. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
3. In a bowl, mix the beef, broccoli, and ricotta until evenly combined.
4. Transfer the mix to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over it.
5. Top with crushed crackers.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, until the top is golden and the broccoli is tender.
7. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tip: for extra fiber, swap the crackers for whole grain crackers.
Next steps: save this easy bake for a busy week. It reheats well and leaves you with tasty leftovers for a quick lunch.
23. Beef & Eggplant Parmesan
Weeknights demand meals that cook fast and taste great. Beef and eggplant parmesan nails both goals. It uses lean ground beef and a gentle cheese layer to stay flavorful. Next steps.
Ingredients
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into rounds
– 1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 oz)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tsp olive oil (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a baking dish.
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up as it cooks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Drain excess fat.
3. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil, then bake 8-10 minutes to soften.
4. Layer in baking dish: a bed of eggplant, then beef, then marinara, then mozzarella, then parmesan. Repeat once to keep a nice stack.
5. Bake 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
FAQ
– Can I swap zucchini for eggplant? Yes. Slice zucchini and bake or roast until tender.
24. Ground Beef & Peppers Stir-Fry
You want a fast, tasty weeknight dinner that your whole family will love. Ground beef with peppers can hit the table in about 25 minutes. The mix of bell peppers, onion, and a simple sauce keeps flavor bold and easy to pull off. You get a protein-packed, easy cleanup meal that fits busy nights.
Here is the complete recipe you can cook tonight.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef; break up and cook until browned. Drain fat.
3. Add onion and peppers; cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce and ginger; cook 1–2 minutes to blend flavors.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of heat if you like.
6. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
FAQ
– Can I add other vegetables? Yes. Broccoli or snap peas work well.
25. Beef & Potato Enchiladas
Looking for a weeknight meal that feels special but is easy on your wallet? This beef and potato enchiladas hit the mark. The creamy potato filling coats seasoned beef, all wrapped in warm corn tortillas. You’ll taste cheesy comfort that fits into busy nights and hungry mouths.
Here is the complete recipe you can try tonight.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 8 corn tortillas
– 1 can enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
– Salt to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, mashed potatoes, and salt.
3. Warm the tortillas to make them soft, then fill each with the beef-potato mixture.
4. Roll the tortillas tight and place seam side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolls.
6. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for about 20 minutes, until hot and melted.
8. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Tip: For extra texture, fold in a handful of black beans or corn in the filling.
Want to tweak this dish? You can use flour tortillas if you like, but corn tortillas give a sharper taste and better texture.
Conclusion
From delicious stuffed peppers to hearty casseroles, these 25 ground beef meals offer a wealth of options that cater to both budget and health. Each recipe showcases the versatility of ground beef while ensuring that you can serve your family wholesome meals without breaking the bank. Dive into these meal ideas and discover how easy it is to enjoy healthy, budget-friendly dinners every week.