10+ Easy and Delicious Ground Beef Recipes

If there’s one thing I’ve learned as a mom, it’s that ground meat—especially ground beef—is a true dinnertime hero.

My family loves it, and I get why! Ground beef is juicy, flavorful, and works its magic in so many recipes, from classic spaghetti to hearty casseroles. Plus, it’s quick and easy to cook, which is a huge help when you’ve got a busy day and hungry faces waiting at the table. Whether you’re making comfort food or something new, ground beef always comes through!

Today, I want to share a list of easy ground beef recipes that busy moms like us can make in no time. From comforting classics like meatloaf or beef chili to fun, kid-approved favorites like cheeseburger sliders or taco bowls, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And, of course, I’ve included a few hearty Filipino dishes that remind me of home, like beef giniling and picadillo.

Ground beef is so versatile—it can be the star of a cozy family dinner or the secret to a quick and easy meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something simple like a beef stir-fry or a dish bursting with flavor like stuffed bell peppers, these recipes are sure to make your loved ones happy.

Ready to spice up your weeknight dinners? Let’s get cooking!

Filipino Beef Giniling

Beef Giniling is a Filipino comfort food that holds a special place in many hearts. Growing up, this dish was a weeknight staple in my home. It’s hearty, easy to cook, and stretches to feed a crowd—perfect for big families like ours. The combination of ground beef, colorful veggies, and savory tomato sauce served over steamed rice is like a warm hug on a plate. For many, it’s also a nostalgic dish often packed in lunchboxes or served at family gatherings.

Here’s my simple recipe for this well-loved Filipino classic:

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound (500g) ground beef
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, for added umami)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup water or beef broth
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté aromatics: Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent, then add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Cook the beef: Add the ground beef to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon to avoid clumps.
3. Add seasonings: Stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and black pepper. Let it simmer for a minute.
4. Mix in the veggies: Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine, then pour in the water or beef broth.
5. Simmer: Cover and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes and carrots are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add peas: Toss in the green peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt, if needed.
7. Serve: Turn off the heat and serve hot over steamed rice.

Spaghetti

Spaghetti is a favorite in my home, especially because I can sneak in extra veggies without anyone noticing! I often blend carrots and zucchini in the food processor and add them to the sauce—it’s an easy way to add nutrition while keeping the flavors kid-approved. My son loves it, and I love knowing he’s getting a little extra goodness in every bite.

Here’s my simple version of this hearty, family-friendly classic:

Ingredients:

• 500g spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 small carrot, finely chopped
• 1 small zucchini, finely chopped
• 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook until softened.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and sugar. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss the cooked spaghetti in the sauce until evenly coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan.

Korean Beef Bulgogi Bowls

This dish has become a dinner staple in our home! I first discovered it on one of my favorite food content creators’ YouTube channel, Aaron and Claire. Their recipes are easy to follow, and they never fail to impress. These bulgogi bowls are sweet, savory, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights.

It’s so good that it’s now in regular rotation alongside another favorite of theirs, the Mongolian Ground Beef recipe (which is next on this list!).

Ingredients

• 1 pound (500g) ground beef
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

For full instructions and tips, check out the original recipe on Aaron and Claire’s Youtube channel.

Mongolian Ground Beef

This Mongolian Ground Beef recipe is another family favorite, and I discovered it on Aaron and Claire’s YouTube channel, which has so many delicious and easy-to-follow recipes. Since I have a toddler, I like to sneak in extra vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, which blend beautifully into the sauce and add a little extra color and nutrition to the dish. It’s the perfect balance of savory and sweet, and my son loves it!

Ingredients

• 1 pound (500g) ground beef
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 medium carrot, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Green onions, sliced, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Japanese Curry with Ground Beef

Japanese Curry with Ground Beef is one of those dishes that’s always a hit at our house. We’re big fans of Japanese food, and this curry is a go-to for family dinners. It’s comforting, flavorful, and my toddler absolutely loves it! If you can, I recommend using lean ground beef for a lighter option, but any ground beef will work well in this rich, savory curry. The warm, slightly sweet flavors from the Vermont Curry blocks make this dish a true family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (500g) ground beef (lean if possible)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup water
• 1-2 blocks Vermont Curry (mild or medium, depending on preference)
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the beef: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Cook the aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened.
3. Add the vegetables: Stir in the carrots and potatoes, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the liquids: Pour in the beef broth and water. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
5. Add the Vermont Curry: Break the Vermont Curry blocks into pieces and add them to the pot. Stir until the curry roux dissolves and the sauce thickens. Let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
6. Serve: Once the curry is thickened and the vegetables are tender, serve over a bowl of rice. Garnish with green onions if desired.

Beef Pepper Rice

One of my favorite dishes to recreate at home is the sizzling Beef Pepper Rice. It’s full of flavor, and the best part is that you can enjoy it with your own twist! I’ve tried this with ground beef instead of sliced beef since it’s easier for my toddler to chew, and it tastes just as delicious! The combination of savory garlic soy sauce, honey sauce, and freshly cracked pepper creates a tasty, comforting meal.

Ingredients

• Cooked Japanese rice
• Ground beef (instead of sliced beef)
• Salted butter
• Canned corn
• Chopped spring onions
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• Garlic soy sauce
• Honey soy sauce

For the full recipe, check out the Pepper.ph guide here.

Homemade Hamburgers

Making hamburgers at home is a tradition in our house, not only because it’s cheaper but also because we can make them just the way we like! I love using simple ingredients and pairing the burgers with crispy fries. Plus, a quick tip: always wear gloves when preparing and mixing the ingredients—it makes everything easier and less messy. My son loves adding fresh tomato and lettuce for a crisp bite.

Ingredients

• 1 kg ground beef
• 1 egg
• 2 tsp beef stock powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the mixture: In a bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, beef stock powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together with your hands, but be sure to wear gloves for a cleaner experience.
2. Shape the patties: Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into burger patties.
3. Cook the patties: Heat a pan or grill over medium heat. Cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
4. Assemble the burgers: Place each patty on a toasted burger bun and add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and cheese.
5. Serve: Pair with fries and enjoy a delicious homemade burger!

Greek Beef Kofta

I first tried Greek kofta at a local Mediterranean restaurant, and I immediately fell in love with the combination of flavorful spices and tender beef. It’s a dish that’s perfect for grilling and makes for an easy family meal, especially during the warmer months. The delicious blend of garlic, onion, and herbs gives the meat such a savory taste. This recipe is from one of my favorite food bloggers, Recipetineats, who always nails these simple yet flavorful dishes.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Fresh parsley
• Garlic
• Onion
• Ground cumin
• Ground coriander
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground allspice
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil

For the full recipe, check out Recipetineats.

Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Garlic Sauce

This dish is one of those quick and easy meals I turn to when I’m short on time but still want something flavorful. The garlic sauce is the star of this stir-fry—it’s simple, but so packed with savory goodness. I love how it coats the ground beef and vegetables, making each bite delicious. It’s a great way to get a balanced meal on the table in no time!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
2. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
4. Add the bell pepper, carrot, and green onions. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Serve over rice or noodles.

Beef and Noodle Casserole

This Beef and Noodle Casserole is a comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a busy weeknight. It combines savory ground beef, tender noodles, and a rich, creamy sauce that your family will love. I often make this dish when I want something hearty and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked egg noodles
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a pan, brown the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the cooked noodles, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and shredded cheese. Add the beef mixture and stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Beef Chow Fun with Ground Beef

Beef Chow Fun is a Chinese-inspired stir-fry dish that’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. Traditionally made with sliced beef, I’ve swapped it for ground beef for a simpler version that’s just as delicious. The wide rice noodles soak up the savory sauce, and the stir-fried vegetables add the perfect crunch. It’s a great meal to make on a busy night when you’re craving something hearty and flavorful!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz wide rice noodles
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions, then set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan or wok, and cook the ground beef until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, stir-fry the onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened.
4. Add the cooked noodles and return the beef to the pan.
5. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and dark soy sauce. Toss everything to coat and heat through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Final Thoughts on Ground beef Recipes

I love experimenting with new recipes from around the world, and ground beef is such a versatile ingredient to start with! Whether you’re making a hearty Italian Bolognese, a flavorful Asian stir-fry, or a comforting American casserole, there’s something so special about cooking meals that bring the whole family together. These dishes are simple, budget-friendly, and sure to please everyone at the table.

If you’re in the mood to try something different, you can also check out these tasty ground pork recipes for more family-friendly meal ideas!

I hope these recipes inspire you to try something new and enjoy time with your loved ones over a delicious meal!