Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that is commonly used in various dishes, from classic hamburgers to hearty stews. This type of meat is not only delicious but also affordable and easy to find. Whether you are a busy parent looking for quick dinner ideas or a college student on a budget, ground beef can be your go-to protein source for satisfying meals.
In this article, we will explore 20 easy ground beef recipes with few ingredients that anyone can make at home. These recipes are designed to be simple yet flavorful, using minimal ingredients without sacrificing taste. From crockpot casseroles to Tex-Mex pasta, our collection of recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and experiment with new flavors. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Key Takeaways
- All recipes use ground beef as the main ingredient and are suitable for family meals.
- These recipes offer maximum flavor with minimal effort and can be customized to fit any taste preference or dietary restriction.
- They are perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends and require few ingredients for each recipe.
- The recipes are satisfying and delicious, and some even include additional ingredients for texture and flavor, such as crispy tortillas, sweet corn, and bacon.
#1 Crock Pot Beef Noodle Casserole
The preparation of Crock Pot Beef Noodle Casserole requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a delicious and easy-to-make ground beef recipe. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want to whip up something quick and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.
To make this dish, all you need is ground beef, egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, onion soup mix, garlic powder, salt, pepper and water. Simply brown the ground beef in a skillet before adding it to your slow cooker along with all the other ingredients. Cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or until the noodles are tender and the casserole is heated through. The end result is a creamy and flavorful dish that will leave you feeling satisfied without having to spend hours cooking. This is just one example of an easy ground beef recipe with few ingredients that can be made quickly and easily without sacrificing taste or quality.
#2 Ground Beef Tacos
Ground beef tacos are a popular meal for their ease in preparation and adaptability to different tastes. Here are three ways to make your ground beef tacos stand out:
- Seasoning: It is essential to add the right seasoning to your ground beef to give it that classic taco flavor. You can use pre-made taco seasoning or mix your own blend of spices such as chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, and oregano.
- Toppings: The toppings you choose can make or break your taco experience. Some traditional options include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, sour cream and guacamole. However, don’t be afraid to try something new like pico de gallo or corn salsa.
- Tortillas: The type of tortilla you use can also change the taste and texture of your tacos. Corn tortillas have a more authentic flavor while flour tortillas provide a softer texture that holds up better when loaded with toppings.
By incorporating these tips into your recipe, you can create delicious and customizable ground beef tacos for a quick weeknight dinner or fun weekend meal with friends and family.
#3 Lasagna Rolls
Lasagna rolls are a delectable Italian dish that can be easily customized to suit individual preferences and evoke feelings of comfort and satisfaction. These rolls consist of cooked lasagna noodles rolled around a filling of ground beef, cheese, and herbs, then baked in a rich tomato sauce. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; the filling can be adjusted to include vegetables like spinach or zucchini, and the sauce can be made with different types of canned tomatoes for varying levels of sweetness and acidity.
To make lasagna rolls, cooks will typically start by boiling the lasagna noodles until they are al dente, or firm but not mushy. While the noodles cool slightly, they prepare the filling by cooking ground beef over medium-high heat with onions, garlic, salt and pepper until browned. Once cooled slightly, ricotta cheese is mixed into the beef mixture along with fresh parsley or basil for added flavor. The filling is spooned onto each noodle before being carefully rolled up into a compact cylinder shape. Finally, these little bundles are placed seam-side down in a baking dish filled with tomato sauce before being baked until bubbly and golden brown on top.
#4 Beefy French Onion Potpie
For those who enjoy hearty, savory dishes, a Beefy French Onion Potpie may be an enticing option. According to recent data, sales of frozen potpies have increased by 10% in the past year alone, suggesting a growing demand for convenient comfort foods. This recipe is not only easy to make but also requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for anyone seeking a satisfying meal.
To prepare this dish, you will need ground beef, onion soup mix, canned French onion soup, refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade), and shredded cheese. The combination of these simple ingredients results in a rich and flavorful potpie that can be enjoyed as a main course or served as a side dish.
The preparation involves browning the ground beef in a skillet before adding the dry onion soup mix and canned French onion soup. Once heated through, the mixture is poured into a pre-baked pie crust and topped with shredded cheese before being baked until golden brown. This Beefy French Onion Potpie is sure to please any palate while providing comfort on even the busiest days.
#5 Crock Mexican Taco Casserole
One dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds is the Crock Mexican Taco Casserole. This easy ground beef recipe requires only a few ingredients but offers a combination of flavors and textures in every bite. The dish combines tender ground beef with classic taco seasonings, corn tortillas, and melted cheese for a hearty and delicious meal.
To prepare the Crock Mexican Taco Casserole, simply brown the ground beef in a skillet and layer it with torn tortillas, salsa, and shredded cheese in a slow cooker. Cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or until bubbly and hot. The resulting casserole is flavorful and comforting, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family.
#6 Beefy Tortellini Skillet
Moving on from our previous subtopic of the Crock Mexican Taco Casserole, we will now explore another easy ground beef recipe with few ingredients – the Beefy Tortellini Skillet. This dish is perfect for those who are looking for a quick and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort in the kitchen.
The Beefy Tortellini Skillet is a one-pan dish that combines tender ground beef with cheesy tortellini pasta, diced tomatoes, and savory Italian seasoning. The result is a deliciously comforting meal that can be ready in just 30 minutes. This recipe is not only flavorful but also budget-friendly as it uses simple and affordable ingredients that can easily be found in your local grocery store. With its simplicity and ease of preparation, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want to indulge in something tasty without spending too much time cooking.
#7 Creamy Beef & Potatoes
The Creamy Beef & Potatoes dish is a hearty and satisfying meal that combines tender chunks of beef with creamy potatoes and savory herbs, creating a dish reminiscent of classic comfort food. This recipe requires only a few simple ingredients, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want to serve something delicious and filling without spending hours in the kitchen.
To create this dish, start by browning ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced potatoes, onions, and garlic, then cook until the vegetables are tender. Next, stir in some heavy cream or sour cream to create a rich and creamy sauce. Finally, season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like before serving hot. Overall, this Creamy Beef & Potatoes recipe is an easy-to-make favorite that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.
#8 Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Symbolizing the taste of Asia, the Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe is a scrumptious and healthy option for those who crave for a balanced meal. This dish is incredibly easy to prepare and requires only few ingredients such as ground beef, coleslaw mix, garlic powder, ginger powder, soy sauce and sesame oil. The combination of these ingredients creates an explosion of flavors that makes this dish irresistible.
The Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe offers not only great taste but also numerous health benefits. It is high in protein which helps build muscles and boost metabolism. Additionally, it is rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, calcium and iron which are essential for maintaining overall health. Furthermore, this recipe is low-carb making it ideal for people following keto or paleo diets. Overall, the Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe provides a perfect balance of taste and nutrition making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for quick and easy ground beef recipes with few ingredients.
#9 Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole
One popular dish that is perfect for satisfying hunger and taste buds alike is the Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole. This hearty meal is a staple in many households and can be easily prepared with minimal ingredients. What makes this recipe so beloved? Here are a few reasons:
- It’s easy to make: The Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole requires only a handful of ingredients, making it an ideal choice for those who are short on time or want to avoid complex recipes.
- It’s filling: With ground beef, hash browns, and cheese as its main components, this casserole will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
- It’s versatile: You can customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. You can also substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken to make it healthier.
- It’s budget-friendly: Ground beef is an affordable protein source, and the other ingredients are also relatively inexpensive, making this recipe a great option for those on a tight budget.
- It’s perfect for leftovers: This casserole reheats well and makes for great leftovers, so you can enjoy it for several meals throughout the week.
Overall, the Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that has stood the test of time. Its simplicity, versatility, affordability, and satiating properties make it a go-to recipe for busy families or anyone looking for an easy yet delicious dinner option.
#10 Mexican Bubble Pizza
Mexican Bubble Pizza is a delicious and unique twist on traditional pizza, incorporating flavorful Mexican ingredients like salsa, cheese, and black beans. This recipe requires only five ingredients: pre-made pizza dough, salsa, ground beef, shredded cheese and canned black beans. The dough is rolled out and placed in a greased baking dish. Then, the ground beef is cooked with taco seasoning and added to the top of the dough along with salsa, black beans and shredded cheese. Finally, the pizza is baked until golden brown.
The result is a mouth-watering combination of flavors that are sure to please any crowd. The crispy crust pairs perfectly with the warm and gooey toppings while the spicy seasonings provide an extra kick of flavor that makes this dish stand out from traditional pizzas. Additionally, this recipe can easily be customized by adding additional toppings such as diced tomatoes or jalapenos for those who prefer an even bolder taste. Overall, Mexican Bubble Pizza is a simple yet creative recipe that provides a fun twist on classic pizza night while using minimal ingredients.
#11 Beef Burrito Recipe
To make a beef burrito, start by heating up a tortilla and adding seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, cheese, and any additional toppings such as lettuce or sour cream. The beauty of this recipe is that it can be customized to suit individual preferences. For example, some people may prefer to use black beans instead of kidney beans or add in some spicy jalapenos for an extra kick.
One tip when making beef burritos is to not overfill the tortilla. This can lead to the filling spilling out and making a mess when trying to eat it. Instead, aim for a moderate amount of filling that allows the tortilla to be easily rolled up without breaking. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, anyone can make delicious beef burritos at home for a quick and satisfying meal.
#12 Homemade Hamburger Helper
Creating a homemade version of the popular boxed pasta dish, Hamburger Helper, involves combining cooked pasta with a creamy sauce made from milk, flour, and seasonings such as paprika and garlic powder. This recipe is a quick and easy option for busy weeknights that requires only a few ingredients commonly found in most kitchens. By making this meal at home instead of purchasing the boxed version, you can control the quality of the ingredients used and avoid any unnecessary additives or preservatives.
To make this dish even more customizable to your taste preferences, consider adding additional seasonings or vegetables such as diced tomatoes or bell peppers. The following table outlines the basic ingredients needed to create Homemade Hamburger Helper along with their respective measurements:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Elbow macaroni | 2 cups |
| Milk | 2 cups |
| Flour | 1/4 cup |
| Seasonings (paprika, garlic powder) | To taste |
With just these five simple ingredients and some pantry staples like salt and pepper, you can have dinner on the table in no time. Give Homemade Hamburger Helper a try tonight for an easy and satisfying meal that will please both kids and adults alike.
#13 Texas Toast Sloppy Joes
In the realm of comfort food, Texas Toast Sloppy Joes reigns supreme with its hearty combination of seasoned ground meat and tangy tomato sauce sandwiched between thick slices of buttery toast. This classic meal is a simple yet satisfying dish that can be made quickly and easily with just a few ingredients.
To make Texas Toast Sloppy Joes, you will need ground beef, diced onions, garlic powder, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper. Start by cooking the ground beef in a frying pan along with the diced onions until it’s browned. Then add garlic powder and cook for an additional minute before adding ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper. Let everything simmer for about 10 minutes until the flavors have melded together nicely. Finally, serve on top of toasted bread or buns for a deliciously filling meal that is perfect for any night of the week.
#14 Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
Homemade spaghetti sauce is a savory and versatile tomato-based sauce that can be used in various pasta dishes. This classic Italian sauce typically consists of tomatoes, garlic, onions, olive oil, and herbs such as basil and oregano. While there are countless variations to this recipe, below are some common ingredients found in homemade spaghetti sauces:
- Crushed tomatoes: This forms the base of the sauce and provides its characteristic tomato flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
- Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and texture to the dish.
- Olive oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil gives the sauce a rich flavor.
- Herbs: Basil, oregano or other herbs can be added for additional flavor.
Making your own homemade spaghetti sauce allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for an extra boost of nutrition or experiment with different spices like red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy pasta dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters!
#15 Easy Lasagna Recipe
Continuing our exploration of easy ground beef recipes with few ingredients, we shift our focus to a classic comfort food: lasagna. This Italian dish is as versatile as it is delicious, and can be customized to fit any taste preference or dietary restriction. From using gluten-free noodles to incorporating vegetables like spinach or zucchini, the options are endless.
The beauty of this easy lasagna recipe lies in its simplicity. With just six main ingredients – ground beef, lasagna noodles, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese – it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Layering these ingredients together creates a hearty casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead. So let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to create a mouth-watering dish that will satisfy everyone at the dinner table!
#16 Skillet Lasagna
The Skillet Lasagna recipe offers a convenient and time-saving alternative to traditional oven-baked lasagna, as it can be prepared entirely in one skillet on the stovetop. This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy the delicious taste of lasagna without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe can be whipped up in no time.
To make this dish, you will need ground beef, lasagna noodles, tomato sauce, water, and shredded cheese. The process starts by browning the ground beef in a skillet and then adding tomato sauce and water to create a flavorful sauce.
Next, layer uncooked lasagna noodles over the meat mixture and top with more sauce. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used up. Finally, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and let it melt under a lid for about 10 minutes or until bubbly and heated through. This Skillet Lasagna recipe is not only easy to make but also delivers all of the classic flavors that we love in traditional lasagna – making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends alike!
#17 Beef Macaroni Soup
One savory option for a hearty meal is a beef macaroni soup, which combines tender chunks of beef with al dente macaroni noodles and aromatic vegetables in a flavorful broth that warms the body and soul like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. This easy-to-make recipe requires only a few ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something delicious but don’t have much time or energy to spare.
To create this comforting soup, start by browning ground beef in a pot over medium heat. Once the beef is cooked through, add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté them until they are soft. Then add canned tomatoes (diced or crushed), beef broth, water, uncooked macaroni noodles, and seasonings such as garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to low and letting it simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the macaroni is tender. Serve hot with your favorite bread or crackers for an easy yet satisfying meal!
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 lb ground beef | Brown in pot over medium heat |
| 1 onion (diced) | Add to pot and sauté with carrots & celery |
| 2-3 carrots (chopped) | Add to pot with onion & celery |
| 2-3 stalks celery (chopped) | Sauté until vegetables are soft |
| 1 can diced/crushed tomatoes | Add along with broth & water |
| 4 cups beef broth | Bring everything to boil then reduce heat |
| 2 cups water | Let simmer for ~10-15 min until macaroni is tender |
| 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni noodles | Serve hot with bread/crackers |
| Garlic powder/Oregano/Salt/Pepper | Add to taste |
#18 Ground Beef Tostada
To prepare a delicious ground beef tostada, start by crisping up a corn tortilla in hot oil until it becomes golden and crunchy. Then, add the following toppings to create a flavor-packed meal:
- Browned ground beef seasoned with taco seasoning for added spice
- Shredded lettuce for freshness and crunch
- Diced tomatoes for a burst of acidity
- Grated cheddar cheese for richness and depth of flavor
- A dollop of sour cream or guacamole to balance out the heat
This simple yet satisfying recipe can be customized to suit personal preferences by adding or substituting ingredients as desired. It is also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when time is limited. Give this ground beef tostada a try and enjoy a delicious meal that is sure to please the whole family!
#19 Tex-Mex Pasta
Moving on from the crispy and satisfying Ground Beef Tostada, let us now explore the rich and flavorful Tex-Mex Pasta. This dish is perfect for when you’re craving a comforting pasta meal with a bit of spice to it. It’s also incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients that are commonly found in your pantry.
The Tex-Mex Pasta features tender ground beef, sweet corn, tangy salsa, and creamy cheese all tossed together with your favorite pasta shape. The result is a deliciously hearty dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress without requiring too much effort in the kitchen. So go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
#20 Cowboy Casserole
Undoubtedly, the Cowboy Casserole is a mouth-watering dish that combines the smoky flavor of bacon with tender potatoes and creamy cheese to create an irresistible savory treat. This easy ground beef recipe only requires a few simple ingredients, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
To make this delicious casserole, start by browning ground beef in a skillet along with onions and garlic. Then add diced potatoes, canned corn, and canned tomatoes to the mix. Season with chili powder, salt, and pepper for added flavor. Layer the mixture into a baking dish before topping it off with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Bake until golden brown and bubbly for an unforgettable dining experience!
Easy Ground Beef Recipes With Few Ingredients FAQs
Can any of these recipes be made in advance or frozen for later use?
Many recipes can be made in advance or frozen for later use, including those with ground beef. However, it is important to follow proper storage and thawing techniques to ensure food safety. Consult recipe instructions or reliable sources for guidance.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan substitutions that can be made for the ground beef?
Various vegetarian or vegan substitutes can replace ground beef in recipes, such as tofu, tempeh, lentils, chickpeas, mushrooms, or TVP. These options offer protein and texture diversity while reducing saturated fat and cholesterol intake.
Can these recipes be made with ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef in many easy recipes with few ingredients. However, the flavor and texture may differ slightly. Adjust seasoning and cooking times accordingly to achieve desired results.
Do any of these recipes require special kitchen equipment or tools?
The recipes listed do not require any special kitchen equipment or tools. The focus is on simple preparation and minimal ingredients. By following the instructions, anyone can create delicious meals without investing in expensive gadgets or utensils.
Are there any recommended side dishes or accompaniments to serve with these recipes?
Common side dishes and accompaniments for ground beef recipes include rice, potatoes, vegetables, salads, and bread. However, the specific choice may vary based on personal preference or cultural traditions.
Conclusion
The world is full of recipes that require countless ingredients and hours of preparation. Thankfully, there are easy ground beef recipes with few ingredients that can help curb your hunger without causing too much stress on your wallet or time. From the Crock Pot Beef Noodle Casserole to the Cowboy Casserole, these dishes are perfect for those who want a quick and satisfying meal.
It may seem ironic that some of the most delicious meals can be created using only a handful of ingredients. However, it is precisely this simplicity that makes them so appealing. With just a few items from your pantry and some ground beef, you can whip up a variety of mouth-watering meals in no time.
So next time you’re feeling drained after a long day at work or just need something to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank, turn to these easy ground beef recipes with few ingredients. You won’t be disappointed by how simple it is to create such flavorful dishes!
