Sweater weather may mean fewer beach days, but it also means richer, more robust dinners featuring the MVP of meal planning—ground beef. This isn’t just about making one great dish; it’s about constantly rotating through a lineup of these fantastic meals all fall. Think of a hearty beef stew bubbling away while leaves fall outside or stuffed peppers that comfort weeknight dinner. Ground beef turns simple dishes into crowd-pleasers without much fuss. Indulge in these ideas all season long, and you’ll have the autumn meal plan of champions.
Pastitsio
Pastitsio will bring a taste of Greece to your fall menu with its unique blend of ground beef and pasta layers. Think baked ziti but with a creamy sauce that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. The combination of ground beef, pasta, and a rich topping makes it an easy favorite for cozy weeknight dinners. This dish effortlessly fits into any meal plan featuring diverse, hearty recipes. Try it once, and it’ll likely become a seasonal staple.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs are a convenient and delicious way to enjoy ground beef. With rice and a flavorful sauce cooked to perfection, these meatballs go straight from the slow cooker to the plate with minimal effort. Ideal for busy fall evenings, they simmer in the cooker all day while you focus on other activities. Pop these in the slow cooker in the morning, and you’ll have a perfectly cooked dish by dinner. They’re great for any family dinner or friendly gathering.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
John Wayne Casserole
John Wayne Casserole stars ground beef in this hearty and filling dish. Layers of ground beef, vegetables, and cheese make this casserole a standout comfort food. It is perfect for a fall evening when you need something substantial yet easy to prepare. The delicious combination is hard to resist and a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. Add this to your list and watch it become a favorite at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: John Wayne Casserole
Shipwreck Casserole
Shipwreck Casserole is a layered delight that combines ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables. The result is a dish that’s as comforting as easy to prepare, making it suitable for busy fall nights. Each layer blends harmoniously, creating an inviting meal perfect for cozy evenings. You won’t have to worry about leftovers; everyone will ask for more. This casserole is a definite win for meal planners looking for versatility.
Get the Recipe: Shipwreck Casserole
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef is an easy and flavorful way to bring a taste of Mexico to your fall dinners. Its versatile and seasoned ground beef can be used in various recipes, from tacos to enchiladas. Adding a little spice to your meal plan shines as a quick and fulfilling option for those busy weekdays. Use a batch throughout the week for fast, delicious meals. Carne Molida is a surefire way to keep your dinners exciting.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef
Bacon-Wrapped Burgers
Bacon-Wrapped Burgers are a delicious twist on the classic burger, ideal for cool fall evenings. The combination of ground beef and bacon is bound to make your meal plan. The bacon adds a crispy, smoky layer that perfectly complements the juicy beef. Cook these on the stovetop or grill them outside if the weather permits. These burgers will be a hit at any gathering or a casual dinner.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Burgers
Tacos Dorados
Tacos Dorados brings ground beef to your fall table with a delicious crunch. These golden, crispy tacos are as fulfilling to make as they are to eat. You’ll experience the flavorful ground beef encased in a crispy shell with each bite. They’re perfect for serving on a game night or a casual evening when you crave something different. Tacos Dorados are a fun way to spice up your meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Tacos Dorados
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich is a great option for a quick, hearty, perfect fall meal. This sandwich combines ground beef, peppers, and onions, topped with melted cheese. Easy to assemble and even easier to eat, it brings all the comfort food notes you crave. It’s ideal for a quick dinner that feels special. This dish is sure to warm you up on those chilly autumn evenings.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
Shepherd’s Pie Bites
Shepherd’s Pie Bites packs the classic shepherd’s pie into bite-sized wonders, perfect for fall snacking or light dinners. Ground beef forms the hearty base, topped with fluffy mashed potatoes. They’re easy to serve, fun to eat, and a great addition to any meal. Perfect for gatherings or as a cozy family dinner, these bites offer the familiar taste in a convenient form. They’re bound to disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Shepherd’s Pie Bites
Diner Style Salisbury Steak
Diner Style Salisbury Steak brings the classic American diner flavor to your fall meal plan. Ground beef patties are served with a rich, homemade gravy perfect for a fantastic autumn night. Pair it with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, and you have a dinner that hits all the comfort food notes. It’s a surefire way to make everyone happy at the dinner table. This dish is a timeless favorite for any season.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak
Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
Air Fryer Beef Empanadas offers a quicker, healthier twist on the traditional favorite. Ground beef filling is wrapped in flaky pastry and cooked to perfection in an air fryer. These empanadas are perfect as appetizers or a light meal, capturing all the flavors you love without the extra oil. They are ideal for sharing on a cozy fall evening or as a fun twist to your usual meal plan. Empanadas will become a go-to dish this season.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
Cowboy Cornbread Casserole mixes ground beef with a layer of cornbread for a hearty and filling dish. Reach for this recipe for a no-fuss meal everyone will love. It’s a great addition to a fall menu, offering warmth and comfort with every bite. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, it’s a perfect dish to bring to potlucks or family dinners. The combination is unbeatable.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Pasta e Fagioli Soup is your go-to for a warm, hearty bowl on those chilly fall days. Ground beef, beans, and pasta come together in a rich broth to create a filling and flavorful soup. It’s an ideal way to keep warm while enjoying a light yet fulfilling meal. This soup fits well into any meal plan focused on comforting dishes, perfect for lunch or dinner. You’ll find yourself making it time and again.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe lets you enjoy restaurant-quality chili at home. Ground beef forms the foundation of this rich, hearty chili, making it ideal for fall. Perfect for those days when you need something warming, this chili can be an easy and filling meal. It’s great for game days, family dinners, or a cozy evening. This chili is sure to become a fall favorite.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
Cheeseburger Casserole
Cheeseburger Casserole makes your hearty cheeseburger dreams come true in casserole form. Ground beef meets cheesy goodness in a dish that’s simple to prepare and hard to resist. Perfect for those evenings when you crave comfort food without the fuss of making individual burgers. This casserole is a fantastic way to bring everyone to the table for a cozy, fulfilling meal. It’s a delicious twist that’s bound to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Casserole