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Burger and Beyond: 15 Innovative Ways to Use Ground Beef

Who knew ground beef could be so versatile? Turn Taco Tuesday into something special, or make a weeknight dinner that’s anything but ordinary. It’s the ultimate kitchen chameleon—perfect for absorbing flavors and delivering fulfilling meals every time. Experimenting with ground beef allows you to stretch your meal prep muscles. It’s more than an ingredient; it’s an opportunity to try new things and have fun. In the world of weeknight dinners, versatility is key.

A slice of John Wayne casserole on a black plate beside a baking dish of the same casserole.
John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

A white rectangular plate with slow cooker porcupine meatballs, garnished with fresh herbs.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

These might sound unusual, but Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs offer a new twist on a classic favorite. Ground beef and rice combine harmoniously, simmering to soak up rich tomato flavors. The result is a tender, flavorful meatball that’s sure to be a hit at family dinners. Forget about constant stirring; let the slow cooker do all the work. Easy to prepare and delicious to eat, they make weeknight meals a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Pastitsio

A serving of pastitsio in a black dish is placed in front of a baking tray with more pasta.
Pastitsio. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Ground beef meets pasta in a creamy, comforting dish known as Pastitsio. Layers of seasoned beef, noodles, and a rich bechamel sauce bake together to create a hearty meal. This Greek-inspired casserole offers a lovely mix of textures and flavors. It’s a wonderful choice for when you want something different yet enjoyable. One bite, and it’s easy to see why this dish is a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio

Shipwreck Casserole

Shipwreck Casserole in a black dish with a spoon.
Shipwreck Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Shipwreck Casserole is the go-to if you’re looking for a meal that uses pantry staples. Ground beef, potatoes, and veggies layer together for an all-in-one simple yet flavorful dish. It’s a classic, fuss-free dinner that delivers every time. The ingredients meld perfectly during baking, creating a comforting, hearty meal. Ideal for busy nights or potluck gatherings, this recipe always impresses.
Get the Recipe: Shipwreck Casserole

Blackstone Smash Burger

A burger held in two hands.
Blackstone Smash Burger. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a burger experience like no other, try the Blackstone Smash Burger. This technique smashes the patty on a hot griddle, creating a crispy, caramelized exterior. The result is a juicy, flavorful burger that’s hard to top. It’s the ultimate way to bring out the best in ground beef. Perfect for grilling season or any time you want a special burger treat.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Smash Burger

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak on a black slate plate.
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Why not try a new take on a classic with the Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich? This version uses ground beef to create a deliciously easy meal. Sautéed peppers and onions mingle with seasoned beef, all under a gooey blanket of melted cheese. Served on a hoagie roll, it’s everything you love about a cheesesteak, simplified. Great for lunch or dinner, these sandwiches are crowd-pleasers.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

Sloppy Joe Casserole

A serving of Sloppy Joe Casserole pasta with meat on a plate with a fork.
Sloppy Joe Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Take a beloved sandwich and turn it into an easy bake with Sloppy Joe Casserole. Ground beef mixes with a tangy sauce and is topped with golden biscuits or cornbread. It’s all the comfort and nostalgia of a Sloppy Joe, minus the mess. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Get ready for second helpings because it’s that good.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

A bowl of Texas roadhouse chili with jalapenos and beans.
Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bring restaurant-style flavors home with Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe. Ground beef, beans, and a rich blend of spices make for a hearty chili packed with flavor. It simmers to perfection, allowing all the ingredients to meld together. It’s a comforting bowl of goodness ideal for game days or cozy nights. Serve it with your favorite toppings and watch it disappear.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

Smoked Meatballs

Smoked meatballs in a dish with grilled bread.
Smoked Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Meatballs infuse incredible flavor into your meatballs. Ground beef balls are seasoned, smoked, and cooked to juicy perfection. The smoking process adds a unique depth that’s hard to achieve with traditional methods. Perfect for appetizers, main courses, or snacking, these meatballs will impress. Make extras—they disappear quickly!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Meatballs

Beef and Barley Soup

A bowl of Beef and Barley Soup with a burger on a long white tray.
Beef and Barley Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm up with a Beef and Barley Soup bowl, a comforting mix of ground beef, vegetables, and hearty barley. This soup is simmered to perfection, allowing all the flavors to come together. It’s a filling and nutritious option, perfect for lunch or dinner. Simple ingredients come together in a way that feels special. Great for meal prepping, it nourishes and delights.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Barley Soup

Tacos Dorados

Tacos Dorados on a plate.
Tacos Dorados. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add some crunch to your taco night with Tacos Dorados. These crispy fried tacos are stuffed with seasoned ground beef for a comforting twist. Easy to make and even easier to eat, they offer a fun change from the usual taco routine. Serve them with your favorite toppings for a customizable meal. Perfect for parties or family dinners, these tacos are always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Tacos Dorados

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Spaghetti with meat and cheese in a baking dish
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Million Dollar Spaghetti takes pasta night to a new level. Ground beef, creamy cheeses, and spaghetti come together in a baked dish worth every penny. Layers of flavor and a golden crust make this a beloved comfort food. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or indulging any night of the week. Rich, hearty, and undeniably delicious, it’s a dish that earns rave reviews.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Shepherd’s Pie Bites

Shepherd's Pie Bites on a black platter.
Shepherd’s Pie Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Miniaturize a classic with the delicious Shepherd’s Pie Bites. Mixed with veggies and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, ground beef becomes a handheld treat. They’re perfect for appetizers, parties, and even kid-friendly dinners. Packed with familiar flavors in a fun format, they offer something different yet comforting. These bite-sized delights are sure to become a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Shepherd’s Pie Bites

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Two servings of Cowboy Cornbread Casserole on plates.
Cowboy Cornbread Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mixing ground beef with a layer of cornbread topping, Cowboy Cornbread Casserole serves a hearty meal. The beef is seasoned just right, while the cornbread bakes to a golden perfection. It’s comfort food with a twist, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. Each bite combines well-seasoned meat and slightly sweet cornbread, a heavenly match. Ready for a cozy dinner? This casserole has you covered.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

A plate of empanadas on a slate.
Air Fryer Beef Empanadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Create crispy and delicious treats with Air Fryer Beef Empanadas. Ground beef filling is encased in dough and cooked to crispy perfection. Using an air fryer makes them quicker and healthier than traditional frying. They’re perfect for snacks, appetizers, or a fun dinner. Enjoy the flavorful, flaky crust paired with flavor-filled beef in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

John Wayne Casserole

A slice of John Wayne casserole on a black plate beside a baking dish of the same casserole.
John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Simplify dinner with hearty flavors in John Wayne Casserole. Ground beef, veggies, and a biscuit topping come together in this crowd-pleaser. It bakes into a delicious, one-pan meal for busy nights. With its familiar, homey taste, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Quick to assemble and always fulfilling, it’s a recipe you’ll return to repeatedly.
Get the Recipe: John Wayne Casserole

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