Looking for a convenient and delicious way to cook with ground beef? Look no further! Frozen ground beef can be a game-changer in the kitchen, allowing you to whip up a tasty meal in no time. In this article, we’ll explore 20 quick and easy recipe ideas that are perfect for busy home cooks. From classic tacos to hearty stir-fries, and from burgers to casseroles, we’ve got a diverse range of recipes that showcase the versatility of frozen ground beef.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. And the best part? They’re all quick and easy to make, so you can get in and out of the kitchen fast. So go ahead, give one (or two, or three…) of these recipes a try, and see just how delicious cooking with frozen ground beef can be!
Classic Beef Tacos with Seasoned Ground Beef
Classic Beef Tacos with Seasoned Ground Beef Recipe
Elevate your taco game with this straightforward recipe that yields flavorful and tender ground beef, perfect for tacos, burritos, or nachos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 packet (1.25 oz) seasoned taco mix
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, and other toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Once browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the seasoned taco mix to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have fully developed.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with seasoned ground beef, shredded cheese, lettuce, and other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hearty Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Savor the flavors of a satisfying stir-fry with this easy-to-make recipe that combines tender beef, colorful vegetables, and savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Return beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Homemade Beef Burgers
Create juicy and flavorful beef burgers with just a few simple ingredients and steps. Perfect for a quick dinner or weekend barbecue, these homemade burgers are sure to please the whole family!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired burger size.
4. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a patty shape.
5. Cook burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spaghetti Bolognese with Ground Beef
A timeless Italian favorite, this hearty spaghetti dish is made with ground beef, tomato sauce, and a hint of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 500g ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pound spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente; reserve.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, red wine, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer sauce for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti and sauce; serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Beef Quesadillas
A flavorful twist on classic quesadillas, these cheesy beef quesadillas are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef in the skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined with the beef mixture.
5. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle 1/4 cup of the beef mixture onto half of the tortilla.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted, flipping halfway through.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Bean Chili
This comforting and flavorful chili recipe combines tender beef with a rich bean mixture, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its robust flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and water; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef
A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavor of ground beef and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and place in a baking dish.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
A classic Russian-inspired dish that combines tender beef strips with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and a creamy sauce, served over egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add beef strips; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add mushrooms and onion to the same skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, flour, and beef broth to the skillet. Whisk until smooth. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens.
6. Return beef strips to the skillet; stir to combine with sauce.
7. Serve beef and mushroom mixture over cooked egg noodles, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Homemade Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
This recipe yields a flavorful and hearty dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just the right balance of savory meat, tangy tomato sauce, and tender pasta, this homemade meatball recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
6. While meatballs are baking, heat tomato sauce over medium-low heat.
7. Serve meatballs in pasta of your choice, topped with additional Parmesan cheese and a spoonful of the warm tomato sauce.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
A classic comfort food dish that combines tender beef and rice with the natural sweetness of cabbage, all wrapped up in a flavorful package. This hearty recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the cabbage leaves from the head and blanch in boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. To assemble the cabbage rolls, lay a blanched cabbage leaf flat on a work surface and place about 1/2 cup of the beef and rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
6. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the leaf into a neat package. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
7. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Beef and Potato Hash
This hearty dish is a perfect combination of tender beef, crispy potatoes, and savory spices. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add diced potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef mixture.
5. Sprinkle paprika over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Beef and Cheese Empanadas
A classic Latin American treat, these flaky empanadas are filled with tender beef and melted cheese. Perfect as a snack or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground beef
+ 1 medium onion, finely chopped
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
+ 1 egg, beaten
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add butter and mix until coarse crumbs form.
3. Gradually add warm water, mixing until dough forms.
4. Divide dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly.
5. Place a spoonful of beef and cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold dough over filling, forming a half-moon shape. Press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with salt.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean-Style Ground Beef Bowl
This recipe serves a flavorful and nutritious Korean-inspired dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch. Marinated ground beef, crunchy vegetables, and savory sauces come together in a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, carrots, bell peppers)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Spinach Lasagna
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines tender beef, flavorful spinach, and creamy lasagna sauce with layers of pasta and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, spinach leaves, salt, and pepper.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of lasagna sauce on the bottom. Arrange 3-4 lasagna noodles on top.
7. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese.
8. Repeat layers: sauce, noodles, ricotta, and mozzarella.
9. Top with Parmesan cheese and cover with aluminum foil for 30 minutes.
10. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Cornbread Casserole
A comforting, one-dish wonder that combines tender beef with a moist cornbread crust and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together cornbread mix, milk, egg, and shredded cheese.
5. Pour cooked beef mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with cornbread mixture.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Pasta Skillet Dinner
This hearty one-pot meal is a weeknight winner, combining tender beef, al dente pasta, and a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, onions, mushrooms)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add mixed vegetables and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the skillet mixture; stir to combine.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Black Bean Burritos
This recipe combines the savory flavors of beef and black beans with the warmth of spices, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and black beans. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by spooning beef mixture onto tortilla, adding cheese and cilantro if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the broccoli and garlic; cook until the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cooked beef back into the pan, along with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together for another minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Beef and Cheese Stuffed Shells
Elevate the traditional stuffed shell recipe by adding savory ground beef and melted mozzarella cheese to the mix. This hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Combine cooked ground beef mixture with marinara sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
7. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty, comforting twist on a classic dish, this recipe combines tender beef and sweet potatoes with a flaky mashed potato crust. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until they’re tender.
5. Meanwhile, boil the chopped potatoes in water until tender. Drain and mash with butter.
6. Assemble the shepherd’s pie by spreading the beef and sweet potato mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish, topping with mashed potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your cooking routine with these 20 quick and delicious frozen ground beef recipes! From classic tacos and hearty stir-fries to cheesy quesadillas and comforting casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a convenient meal solution, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With a variety of flavors and textures to choose from, you’ll never get bored with the same old ground beef dishes again.
