Ground Beef Recipe for Dinner

Ground beef recipes for dinner are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and quick cooking times, they offer hearty, comforting meals that the whole family enjoys. I usually start by browning the beef to lock in flavor before adding sauces or vegetables. Whether you’re juggling work, homework, or evening activities, these recipes give you a cozy, satisfying dinner without stress. Perfect for cold nights or casual family meals, they pair beautifully with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. Ground beef is versatile, budget-friendly, and filling, making it an ideal choice for anyone who wants a quick yet delicious dinner solution that feels homemade and comforting.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

These ground beef recipes for dinner are flavorful, flexible, and easy to customize. From saucy skillet meals to oven-baked casseroles, they provide hearty options for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep. Leftovers reheat well, making them freezer-friendly and time-saving for busy schedules. You can swap vegetables, spices, or sauces to suit your taste or dietary needs, so each meal feels fresh and inviting. These recipes use simple, affordable ingredients that are often already in your pantry. Whether you’re looking for a comforting one-pot dish, a crowd-pleasing casserole, or a quick skillet dinner, these meals deliver warmth, flavor, and satisfaction without complicated steps. They’re ideal for anyone seeking cozy, practical, and nourishing dinners the family will request again and again.

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Ingredients

Tip: Choose 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness.

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups cooked pasta, rice, or potatoes (optional for serving)
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Instructions

Step 1: Preparation – 40 words
Chop onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Measure out tomatoes, broth, and seasonings. If using pasta or rice, have it cooked and ready. Prepping all ingredients first ensures the cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process – 40 words
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper, sautéing until fragrant and slightly softened. The aroma will signal the base of a hearty dinner.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients – 40 words
Stir in diced tomatoes, broth, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, letting flavors meld. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer – 40 words
Adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, fold in cooked pasta, rice, or potatoes for a complete meal. Simmer 2–3 more minutes until everything is heated through and coated with flavorful sauce. Serve immediately for a cozy, satisfying dinner.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

Ground beef recipes for dinner are fast, flexible, and practical. You can prep ingredients in advance, cook in one pan, and store leftovers for future meals. They’re ideal for busy nights when you want a warm, filling dinner without extensive prep. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making them convenient for lunch or another dinner. Simple swaps in vegetables, spices, or grains allow you to keep meals fresh and appealing throughout the week.

Tips & Tricks

  • Browning beef properly builds deep flavor. Avoid stirring too often; let it sear for best texture.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to prevent steaming and soggy meat.
  • Add vegetables toward the end if you like them crisp, or earlier for a softer texture.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning before serving; salt and spices can intensify as the dish simmers.

Variations

  • Meaty version: Add cooked bacon, sausage, or ground turkey to boost flavor and protein content.
  • Vegetarian option: Replace beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles; use vegetable broth for a hearty meat-free dish.
  • Ingredient swap: Use sweet potatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms instead of bell peppers or potatoes to vary textures and nutrition.
  • Flavor or herb boost: Add fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or oregano; a dash of smoked paprika or cumin elevates the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Cozy family meal: Serve over mashed potatoes or cooked rice for a comforting plate.
  • Quick weeknight: Pair with buttered noodles or toast for simple sides that soak up sauce.
  • Fresh twist: Top with shredded cheese, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
  • Entertaining: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with a crisp salad for a vibrant, colorful presentation.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge storage: Store in airtight container up to 3–4 days; reheat gently on stovetop.
  • Reheating: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally; add a splash of broth if sauce thickens.
  • Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers; freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.
  • Make-ahead tips: Cook fully and store; add fresh herbs or toppings just before serving for freshness.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
  • Rest Time: none
  • Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Nutrition Information

Calories: 350–450 per serving
Protein: 20–25g
Contains iron from beef and vitamin C from bell peppers. Values vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.

FAQs

Yes, cook fully and store in fridge; reheat before serving.

Simmer longer or reduce broth slightly.

Yes, adjust cooking time and add a little oil for moisture.

Add them later in cooking for firmer texture.

3–4 days in fridge; 2 months frozen.

Conclusion

Ground beef recipes for dinner are versatile, quick, and satisfying, perfect for busy evenings or cozy family meals. They’re easy to customize with different vegetables, spices, and grains, so each dinner feels fresh and delicious. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making them practical for meal prep or a second serving. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, these recipes provide a comforting, hearty meal without fuss. Keep this collection on hand for easy weeknight inspiration and enjoy the warmth, flavor, and simplicity that a good ground beef dinner brings to your table.

Ground Beef Recipes for Dinner
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Ground Beef Recipes for Dinner

Recipe by Edan SalamonCourse: Beef Recipes
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

Quick, hearty, and family-friendly, this ground beef dinner is full of flavor and easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights, it pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or potatoes for a cozy, satisfying meal everyone will love.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 medium onion, chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 bell pepper, diced

  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 2 cups cooked pasta, rice, or potatoes (optional for serving)

Directions

  • Chop onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Have tomatoes, broth, and seasonings ready. Cook pasta or rice if using.
  • In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper; sauté until fragrant and softened.
  • Stir in diced tomatoes, broth, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10–15 minutes until vegetables are tender and sauce thickens.
  • Fold in cooked pasta, rice, or potatoes if desired. Simmer 2–3 more minutes until heated through. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Storage
    Fridge: Airtight container, 3–4 days; reheat gently.
    Reheating: Warm over medium heat; add broth if sauce thickens.
    Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers; freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
    Make-ahead: Cook fully; add fresh herbs or toppings before serving.

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