Ground Beef Dinner Recipes

Name: Ground Beef Dinner Recipes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can diced tomatoes; 2 teaspoons chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love experimenting with ground beef dinner recipes because they are so versatile and satisfying. There's something comforting about a hearty meal that you can whip up quickly, whether it's a stir-fry, a casserole, or a classic burger. Ground beef absorbs flavors beautifully, making it an ideal base for various seasonings and ingredients. In my kitchen, it’s a go-to for weeknight meals when time is tight. I can't wait to share my favorite recipes that are easy to prepare and always hit the spot!

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:28:15.387Z

When I first started cooking with ground beef, I was amazed at how quickly I could create a delicious meal. One of my favorite discoveries was using spices to elevate simple dishes. By adding cumin and paprika, my basic beef stir-fry transformed into a flavor-packed experience. I also learned that evening meals don’t have to take forever; most of these recipes can be on the table in under 45 minutes, allowing for more family time together.

One tip I've picked up over the years is to add vegetables early in the cooking process to enhance the flavor of the meat. Bell peppers, onions, and garlic sauté beautifully with ground beef and make for a colorful, nutritious dish. I love sneaking in extra nutrients where I can, and this is a great way to get the family excited about their veggies!

        Why You'll Love These Recipes
        Versatile and quick to prepare for busy weeknights
Rich in flavor with endless seasoning options
Perfect for satisfying the whole family

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

Ground beef is the star of this dish—it not only provides a hearty base but also absorbs flavors from the other ingredients beautifully. When selecting ground beef, opt for an 80/20 blend of meat to fat for the best flavor and moisture. The fat content contributes to a juicy final dish that doesn't dry out during cooking. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, but be mindful that they may require additional seasoning to achieve a similar depth of flavor.

Chili powder is a crucial ingredient in this recipe, bringing warmth and richness without overwhelming heat. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Fresh ingredients, like the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, also play vital roles; they add layers of flavor and aroma as they cook down. Browning these aromatics before adding the ground beef enhances their sweetness, which balances nicely with the acidity of the diced tomatoes.

Cooking Technique Tips

When cooking the ground beef, break it into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon as it browns. This not only helps it cook evenly but also prevents clumping, ensuring that every bite is tender and juicy. Aim for a medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear without burning the meat. If you see excess grease in the pan after browning, drain some off—too much fat can make the dish greasy rather than savory. A good visual cue is to look for a rich brown color on the beef, which indicates it's developed flavor properly.

Simmering the combined ingredients for about 15 minutes is key. This step allows the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender. If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare it and refrigerate it for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to restore some moisture as needed, and keep it covered to avoid dryness.

Ingredients

Ground Beef Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Feel free to add your favorite spices and vegetables!

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Drain the diced tomatoes if desired.

Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground beef, stirring until browned.

Combine Ingredients

Add the diced bell pepper, tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, and let simmer for 15 minutes.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot over rice or in taco shells.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Add beans for extra fiber and protein.

Serving Suggestions

This ground beef dish can be served in various ways, depending on your preference. For a hearty meal, serve it over fluffy white rice or quinoa. Alternatively, scoop the mixture into taco shells, adding your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, lettuce, and salsa, for a fun and interactive dinner. If you want to keep things low-carb, consider using lettuce wraps or serving it alongside roasted vegetables.

For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side salad or steamed veggies. The freshness of a salad can lighten the richness of the beef, making it a well-rounded dinner option. I often like to sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley on top for added color and flavor just before serving.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth for moisture if needed. This recipe is also ideal for freezing cold weather. You can freeze the cooked dish for up to three months. Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

When reheating frozen leftovers, do so slowly on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. This method helps maintain the texture of the ground beef. For best results, avoid microwaving, as it may lead to uneven heating and a tough texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the ground beef dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with ground beef?

It pairs well with rice, pasta, or in lettuce wraps.

→ Is ground beef high in fat?

It depends on the type of ground beef; choose lean cuts to reduce fat content.

→ Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.