Easy meals with ground beef for quick weeknight dinners

Easy meals with ground beef for quick weeknight dinners are a lifesaver for busy families. These recipes are not only delicious but also simple enough to whip up in no time.

What Is Ground Beef?

Let’s kick things off with a quick overview. Ground beef is simply beef that has been finely chopped using a meat grinder or a food processor. It’s versatile, widely available, and used in countless dishes worldwide. Whether it’s crumbled in tacos or molded into patties, ground beef brings that hearty, comforting flavor we all love.

Why Ground Beef?

Nutritious and Affordable

Ground beef is a fantastic source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12. One of its biggest advantages is the price—it’s usually cheaper than other cuts of beef, making it a budget-friendly option for families.

Versatility

You can use it in a myriad of recipes, ranging from easy pasta sauces to hearty casseroles. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up delicious dinners that satisfy.

Quick Cook Time

Ground beef cooks quickly. It’s often browned in a skillet within mere minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights when time is not on your side.

Easy Ground Beef Recipes

Now, let’s dive into some easy meals with ground beef for quick weeknight dinners that you can prepare with minimal fuss.

Beef Tacos

Tacos are always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• Taco shells
• Your choice of toppings (lettuce, cheese, salsa)

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain the excess fat and add taco seasoning, mixing well.
3. Serve in taco shells and add toppings of your choice.

Looking for other taco ideas? You might enjoy our collection of dinner recipes.

Spaghetti Bolognese

A classic Italian dish that never disappoints.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• Spaghetti

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion and garlic in a pan until translucent.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes; let it simmer while cooking the spaghetti.
4. Serve sauce over cooked spaghetti.

For more delicious pasta ideas, check out quick meals.

Ground Beef Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy option packed with vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers and broccoli)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, heat sesame oil over high heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
3. Toss in your selected vegetables and soy sauce; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes.

This meal is not only fast but also a great way to sneak in those vital veggies.

Chili

A hearty meal perfect for colder nights.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can kidney beans
• 1 can black beans
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• Chili seasoning

Instructions:

1. Brown ground beef in a pot.
2. Drain any excess fat, then add beans, tomatoes, and seasoning.
3. Let it simmer for at least 20 minutes.

This dish gets better with time, making it great for leftovers as well.

Beef Enchiladas

Another Tex-Mex classic that’s straightforward to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can enchilada sauce
• Tortillas
• Shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef and mix in half of the enchilada sauce.
2. Fill tortillas with the beef mixture and roll them up.
3. Place seams down in a baking dish, pour the remaining sauce on top, and sprinkle with cheese.
4. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.

This is comfort food at its best!

Storing and Freezing Ground Beef

To make your weeknight cooking even easier, proper storage is key.

Refrigerating Ground Beef

Raw ground beef can stay in the fridge for 1-2 days. Always store it in its original packaging or in an airtight container.

Freezing Ground Beef

For longer-term storage, it’s wise to freeze ground beef. You can freeze it as is or pre-cook it for quick meal options. Ensure it’s vacuum-sealed or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag.

For more tips on maintaining the quality of your foods, consider checking out resources from Healthline.

Meal Prepping with Ground Beef

Meal prepping is an excellent way to ensure you always have a nutritious dinner on hand.

Cook and Freeze

Prepare a large batch of several ground beef dishes and freeze them in portions. This way, on busy nights, you can simply grab a meal and heat it up.

Use the Same Base

You can use a basic ground beef mixture as a base and modify it slightly. For instance, use the same seasoned beef for tacos one night and then for chili the next—transitioning easily from one meal to another can keep things interesting.

Tips for Quick Meals

Prep Ingredients Ahead

Chop vegetables in advance and have your spices ready to go. This saves time on busy nights.

Keep Your Pantry Stocked

Having a stock of essential items like canned tomatoes, beans, and spices can save you from last-minute grocery runs.

Use One-Pan Recipes

Look for recipes that minimize cleanup. A one-pan meal means less time fussing in the kitchen and more time enjoying with your family.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
A1: Absolutely! Lean ground turkey or chicken can be used in these recipes for a healthier option.

Q2: How long can I store cooked ground beef in the fridge?
A2: Cooked ground beef can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Q3: Can I freeze cooked ground beef?
A3: Yes, cooked ground beef can be frozen and lasts about 2-3 months in the freezer.

Q4: What is the best way to season ground beef?
A4: A combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder works great. You can also use prepared seasoning mixes.

Q5: What are some healthy sides to serve with ground beef?
A5: Consider serving with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a side salad for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

With easy meals with ground beef for quick weeknight dinners, you’re armed with recipes that not only save time but also satisfy those hunger pangs. Don’t be afraid to get creative! If you found this article helpful, please share it with friends or family—let’s spread the love of quick, delicious cooking!