Ground beef is one of the most versatile kitchen ingredients, and thus, there are plenty of possibilities for scrumptious meals that can be made with it. Ground beef is an ideal option if you’re in the mood for an easy-to-prepare meal or a hearty and warming dish you can share. Whether you want classic comfort foods or international flavors, here are nine delicious meals you can whip up with a single pound of ground beef.
1. Beef Enchiladas Verdes
Beef enchiladas verdes is a delicious and simple dish that combines the heartiness of ground beef with the zingy flavor of green chilies. For this recipe, tortillas are quickly cooked in hot oil and layered with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and green chilies.
The enchiladas can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them, so they’re great for busy weeknights or special occasions, too. If needed, top this dish with fresh cilantro or sour cream for additional taste and texture.
2. Korean Beef and Rice
If you like the flavor of bulgogi, this Korean beef and rice recipe is a simplified, quick version. It uses ground beef rather than sliced steak. This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for a quick dinner.
The mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger adds an umami depth to the ground beef and is incredibly delicious when spooned over steamed rice. For an authentic Korean touch, you may even want to include some kimchi or pickled ginger on the side.
3. Skillet Shepherd’s Pie
Skillet shepherd’s pie is a classic comfort food that never fails to please. Ground beef is paired with vegetables and mashed potatoes in one pan for a hearty filling meal.
This is a super simple dish that can be made with your choice of vegetables or spices. To achieve an extra crispy top, consider broiling the mashed potatoes for a few minutes just before serving. For an extra decadent touch, add some grated cheese of your choice on top. You will not be disappointed.
4. Spaghetti Pie Casserole
Spaghetti pie casserole is a creative twist on traditional spaghetti dishes. It layers spaghetti cooked through with a rich meat sauce and a mixture of cheeses, the kind you might serve for family dinners or potluck meals.
You can make this casserole in advance, and it allows for many creative liberties, like swapping in other cheeses or meats. Consider using a variety of cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta for a creamy texture.
5. Greek Sloppy Joes
Greek sloppy joes bring a Mediterranean twist to the classic American sloppy joe. With feta cheese and other Greek flavors incorporated, this is a refreshing change from a basic sloppy joe.
The combination of ground beef flavored with feta and herbs such as oregano can be served on a soft or lightly toasted bun or on a bed of rice. You can also mix in some chopped olives or artichoke hearts for added texture.
6. Nacho Casserole
Nacho casserole is a fun and customizable dish that combines the best of nachos in a casserole. This filling dish includes ground beef, tortilla chips, cheese, and your favorite toppings, making it easy to adapt to different tastes.
It’s great for parties or family gatherings because everyone can add their favorite toppings. For different flavor profiles, consider using different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese.
7. Cheeseburger Pasta
Cheeseburger pasta is a creative take on the classic cheeseburger, turning it into a pasta meal. This recipe combines ground beef, pasta, cheese, and tomato sauce, creating a satisfying meal that’s both familiar and new.
You can customize it with your favorite cheeseburger toppings, such as bacon or pickles, to give it an extra kick. For a creamy sauce, try adding some sour cream or Greek yogurt to the pasta.
8. Meat-and-Potato Casserole
Meat-and-potato casserole is a comforting dish that combines beef with potatoes and a creamy sauce. This recipe is versatile and can be made with different types of cream soups like cream of mushroom or cream of celery to add a little variety to the flavor of this dish.
The crispy potato crust gives the dish a delicious texture, making it a great option for family dinners. To add extra flavor to the beef mixture, chop some onions or bell peppers and mix them into the beef.
9. Beef Barley Skillet
Ground beef barley skillet is a healthy and easy ground beef recipe with barley and vegetables. It’s easy to whip up and can be customized with a variety of bell peppers, or proteins like turkey or chicken.
The quick-cooking barley makes this an excellent choice for busy nights, and you can add your favorite spice or herb to elevate it. For a Mediterranean twist, add some feta cheese and olives to the skillet.