Ground beef is the weeknight hero that never complains, never judges, and always delivers. These 29 recipes prove there’s more to it than tacos and spaghetti—think hearty soups, creative casseroles, and dishes that make leftovers a fight for survival. Whether it’s a 15-minute meal or a slow-simmered masterpiece, there’s something here to keep dinner interesting without breaking the bank. If your freezer has a pound of ground beef and no plan, problem solved.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
This classic soup knows how to make a meal feel complete without trying too hard. Pasta e Fagioli Soup combines hearty ingredients into a rich and filling bowl that never disappoints. It’s the kind of meal that works for a quick weeknight fix or a slow Sunday dinner, and leftovers only get better. Whether paired with something crunchy on the side or enjoyed as is, this one keeps things simple while delivering big. Expect to see this on repeat once it makes its way to the table.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Easy Ground Beef Fried Rice
When dinner needs to be quick but still feel like an actual meal, this dish does the job. Easy Ground Beef Fried Rice takes the best parts of a takeout favorite and makes them even better. It’s packed with flavor, comes together fast, and makes use of ingredients that are probably already in the kitchen. Whether served as a side or the main event, it’s one of those meals that just works. Leftovers, if there are any, make lunch the next day something to look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Easy Ground Beef Fried Rice
Taco Casserole
Tacos are great, but sometimes a fork just makes things easier. Taco Casserole takes everything good about a classic taco night and layers it into something just as satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy to throw together but still feels like a full meal, perfect for feeding a crowd or guaranteeing leftovers. Crunchy, cheesy, and packed with familiar flavors, this one is a guaranteed hit. If tacos have ever felt like too much effort, this casserole is the answer.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
The cheesesteak gets a weeknight-friendly upgrade with this version that skips the steak but keeps the flavor. Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich delivers everything a good cheesesteak should—savory, melty, and piled onto a soft roll. It’s easy to make, even easier to eat, and doesn’t require a trip to Philly to get it right. Whether topped with extras or kept classic, it’s one of those meals that disappears fast. If a sandwich could be considered comfort food, this one would qualify.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
Smoked Meatballs
There’s something about a little smoky flavor that turns an everyday meal into something worth talking about. Smoked Meatballs take the familiar comfort of a classic dish and add a depth that makes them hard to forget. They hold up just as well on their own as they do smothered in sauce, stacked in a sandwich, or served alongside something starchy. These aren’t just meatballs—they’re the ones you’ll be asked to make again.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Meatballs
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef
Sometimes, all a meal needs is a little boldness to make it a favorite. Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef brings just the right amount of flavor, whether it’s used for tacos, bowls, or whatever needs a little extra kick. It’s the kind of dish that comes together fast but never feels like a last-minute decision. Simple, versatile, and full of the kind of seasoning that keeps things interesting, this one’s a keeper. If dinner needs something reliable with a little personality, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef
Bacon-Wrapped Burgers
A regular burger is great, but wrapping it in something crispy takes it to another level. Bacon-Wrapped Burgers deliver that perfect balance of juicy and crunchy in every bite. These are the kind of burgers that don’t need a lot of extras to be memorable, but they handle toppings like a pro. Whether cooked on the grill or in a pan, they bring the kind of satisfaction that makes eating with a fork feel unnecessary.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Burgers
Sloppy Joe Casserole
This takes everything great about a classic Sloppy Joe and makes it even easier to eat. Sloppy Joe Casserole bakes up into a meal that’s hearty, slightly messy, and exactly what comfort food should be. It’s got that familiar, slightly sweet and savory flavor, but in a form that doesn’t require a napkin after every bite. Perfect for feeding a crowd or making sure there’s lunch ready for tomorrow. If dinner needs something simple but satisfying, this one gets it done.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Tacos Dorados
Crunchy, golden, and packed with flavor, these tacos take things up a notch. Tacos Dorados delivers the kind of crispiness that makes every bite satisfying. They hold up to toppings without getting soggy and turn an ordinary taco night into something special. Whether served on their own or alongside a dipping sauce, they don’t stick around long. If tacos need a little extra crunch, these are the way to go.
Get the Recipe: Tacos Dorados
Authentic Bolognese Sauce
This sauce doesn’t rush, and that’s exactly why it works. Authentic Bolognese Sauce takes its time, letting deep flavors develop into something rich, comforting, and completely worth the wait. Whether served over pasta or used in another dish, it’s the kind of meal that feels just as good to make as it does to eat. It’s not complicated, just classic in the best way possible. If dinner needs something that’s both hearty and satisfying, this is the sauce to go with.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Bolognese Sauce
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Meatballs are already a win, but adding a little texture makes them even better. Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs take a simple idea and turn it into something that’s not just fun to eat but easy to make. The slow cooker does most of the work, leaving behind meatballs that are tender, packed with flavor, and great on their own or over something starchy. They’re the kind of meal that works just as well for a weeknight dinner as they do for meal prep. If easy and filling is the goal, this recipe delivers.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Shipwreck Casserole
This dish might sound like a disaster, but it’s anything but. Shipwreck Casserole layers everything together in a way that makes each bite a mix of flavors and textures. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a throwback in the best way—no fuss, just good, filling food. Whether baked for a busy weeknight or prepped ahead of time, it’s a reliable option that doesn’t disappoint. If a hearty, all-in-one meal is what’s needed, this casserole makes sure nobody leaves the table hungry.
Get the Recipe: Shipwreck Casserole
Pastitsio
When lasagna and baked pasta come together, this is the result. Pastitsio is layered with everything that makes comfort food great—rich sauce, pasta, and a topping that bakes up perfectly. It’s hearty enough to feed a crowd and just as good the next day, making it a great make-ahead option. The balance of flavors is what makes it stand out, giving it a spot on the list of dishes worth making again. If a meal needs to feel extra satisfying, this one won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio
Big Mac Tacos
When a fast-food favorite meets taco night, good things happen. Big Mac Tacos bring all the familiar flavors into a crispy, handheld version that’s fun to eat. It’s got the layers, the textures, and everything else that makes it a guilty pleasure—but now it’s homemade. Perfect for those nights when dinner needs a little creativity without extra work. If fast food cravings hit, this is an easy way to handle them.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Tacos
Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
Flaky, crispy, and packed with flavor, these empanadas make snacking or mealtime a little more exciting. Air Fryer Beef Empanadas deliver everything great about the classic version but with a shortcut that keeps them light and crispy. Whether served on their own or with a dipping sauce, they disappear fast. They’re great for meal prep, quick dinners, or just an excuse to use the air fryer again. If handheld meals are the goal, this recipe does it right.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
Mini Meatloaf
Sometimes, individual servings just make things more fun. Mini Meatloaf gives the classic dish a personal-sized twist while keeping all the comfort-food appeal. They cook up faster, stay juicy, and make portioning a breeze. Whether served as a main course or packed up for easy leftovers, they’re as convenient as they are satisfying. If meatloaf night needs an upgrade, these little versions get it done.
Get the Recipe: Mini Meatloaf
Million Dollar Spaghetti
This isn’t just pasta with sauce—it’s layers of cheesy, baked goodness that make it something special. Million Dollar Spaghetti combines everything great about baked pasta into one dish that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. It’s creamy, hearty, and just as good for a casual dinner as it is for feeding a crowd. Leftovers? They might not last long. If spaghetti night needs a serious upgrade, this is the way to do it.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Beef and Barley Soup
Some soups are just side dishes, but this one is a full meal. Beef and Barley Soup is packed with deep, rich flavors that only get better the longer it sits. It’s hearty enough to be satisfying but simple enough to throw together without much effort. Whether made for a cozy night in or packed up for lunch the next day, it’s always a solid choice. If soup is on the menu, this one’s worth making.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Barley Soup
Best Ever Giant Meatballs
These aren’t just meatballs—they’re the main event. Best Ever Giant Meatballs take everything great about the classic version and make it bigger, juicier, and more satisfying. Whether served on their own, with pasta, or stuffed into a sandwich, they don’t need much to stand out. The size isn’t just for show; it means more flavor in every bite. If regular meatballs just aren’t cutting it, these will do the trick.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Giant Meatballs
Shepherd’s Pie Bites
A classic dish, just in a smaller package. Shepherd’s Pie Bites take everything great about the original and turn it into a handheld version. They’ve got all the layers, all the flavor, and none of the mess. Perfect for meal prepping, appetizers, or just making dinner a little more fun. If bite-sized comfort food sounds good, these are the way to go.
Get the Recipe: Shepherd’s Pie Bites
John Wayne Casserole
Big flavors, hearty layers, and a name that means business—this casserole doesn’t mess around. John Wayne Casserole is a fully loaded dish that brings together bold ingredients in a way that works. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies without being complicated, making it great for feeding a crowd. Whether made for a potluck or a family dinner, there’s no way it lasts long. If casseroles had personalities, this one would be the tough guy that wins everyone over.
Get the Recipe: John Wayne Casserole
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
Not quite a burger, not quite a sloppy joe—this sandwich is in a category of its own. Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich is packed with flavor while keeping things simple. It’s juicy, seasoned just right, and served on a soft bun for a no-fuss meal. Whether eaten as is or loaded with toppings, it’s easy to see why it’s a Midwest favorite. If dinner needs something classic but different, this is worth a try.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
Bold, rich, and packed with deep flavors, this chili is the kind that sticks with you. Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe brings that slow-simmered taste without needing a trip to the restaurant. It’s thick, satisfying, and perfect for a meal that warms you up. Whether served in a bowl, over something starchy, or loaded with toppings, it’s hard to go wrong. If chili night needs an upgrade, this one’s a solid choice.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
Diner-Style Salisbury Steak
This dish brings back the best parts of a classic diner meal—rich, hearty, and full of flavor. Diner-Style Salisbury Steak takes ground beef and turns it into something comforting and familiar. It’s got the kind of flavor that pairs perfectly with mashed sides and a good sauce. Whether it’s for a nostalgic meal or just something satisfying, this one delivers. If a plate of classic comfort food sounds good, this is the way to go.
Get the Recipe: Diner-Style Salisbury Steak
Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches
A sandwich doesn’t have to be boring, and this one proves it. Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches bring bold flavors, soft pita bread, and just the right amount of crunch. They’re easy to put together, loaded with flavor, and perfect for a quick but satisfying meal. Whether served with fresh toppings or just as they are, they don’t disappoint. If sandwich night needs a change, this one’s worth trying.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches
Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
This casserole doesn’t just fill you up—it makes sure you remember it. Cowboy Cornbread Casserole brings together layers of hearty ingredients with a golden, slightly sweet topping that ties it all together. It’s the kind of meal that works for a busy night or a cozy weekend dinner. Whether eaten on its own or paired with a side, it holds its own. If casseroles could be bold, this one definitely would be.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
Ground Beef and Broccoli
Takeout flavors, homemade simplicity. Ground Beef and Broccoli delivers a quick, flavorful meal without the extra effort. It’s a great way to mix up dinner while keeping things easy and satisfying. Whether served over rice or on its own, it gets the job done. If dinner needs to be fast but still feel like an actual meal, this is a solid option.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Broccoli
Blackstone Smash Burger
Crispy edges, juicy centers, and all the flavor packed into every bite—this is how burgers should be. Blackstone Smash Burger takes the simple approach and turns it into something unforgettable. Cooking them on a hot surface gives them that signature texture, making every bite worth it. Whether piled with toppings or kept classic, they don’t need much to be perfect. If burger night needs a little extra, this is the way to do it.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Smash Burger
Skillet Stroganoff Pie
Classic comfort food, just with a twist. Skillet Stroganoff Pie keeps all the creamy, savory goodness of the original but bakes it up into a dish that’s even better. It’s rich, filling, and perfect for when dinner needs to feel like a real meal. Whether served fresh or as leftovers, it doesn’t disappoint. If stroganoff sounds good but a little different sounds better, this is the answer.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Stroganoff Pie