There’s nothing quite like a hearty, comforting dish to warm up on a chilly day. And when it comes to satisfying your cravings, few ingredients can rival the humble ground beef and beans combination. The classic duo has been a staple in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason: it’s easy to make, packed with protein and fiber, and can be adapted to suit any taste or dietary need.
From spicy tacos to cheesy casseroles, smoky skillets to hearty stews, we’ve rounded up 20 of our favorite ground beef and beans recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution or a college student seeking comfort food inspiration, these recipes have got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of ground beef and beans, exploring different flavors, textures, and cultural influences that make these dishes so beloved. So grab your apron, get ready to cook, and let’s dive in!
Spicy Ground Beef and Black Bean Tacos
Spicy Ground Beef and Black Bean Tacos Recipe
Add a kick to your taco Tuesday with this flavorful recipe that combines spicy ground beef with the richness of black beans. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these tacos are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 1/2 cup black beans, cooked and drained
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (7 oz)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
2. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is well combined and slightly reduced, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in black beans and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto tortillas and topping with shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef and Pinto Bean Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines ground beef, pinto beans, and a rich cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 cup pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into quarters
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and cook until translucent.
4. Stir in pinto beans, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, combine milk and shredded cheese; stir until smooth.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange tortilla quarters in a single layer.
7. Spoon the ground beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by the cheese sauce.
8. Top with additional shredded cheese (if desired).
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Smoky Ground Beef and Baked Beans Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the rich flavors of smoky ground beef with sweet and tangy baked beans, all cooked to perfection in one pan. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup baked beans
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices of bacon, crumbled
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in baked beans and crumbled bacon; stir to combine.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until flavors are melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Kidney Bean Chili
This classic chili recipe combines ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of spices to create a warm and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder and cumin, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the water to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Ground Beef and Refried Bean Burritos
A classic combination of flavors and textures, these burritos are a satisfying meal that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can refried beans (16 oz)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in refried beans and 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 and bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Add optional toppings as desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and White Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect combination of tender ground beef, creamy white beans, and aromatic vegetables, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, and thyme.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ground Beef and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines ground beef and black beans with roasted bell peppers for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked black beans and cook for 1 minute.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the ground beef mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Cannellini Bean Pasta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef and cannellini beans with al dente pasta, creating a satisfying and comforting dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes
– 1 cup cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces pasta of your choice
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the canned tomatoes, cannellini beans, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Combine the cooked pasta and meat sauce. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Pinto Bean Nachos
A flavorful twist on classic nachos, this recipe combines ground beef and pinto beans with melted cheese and crispy tortilla chips. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked pinto beans
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add cooked pinto beans, onion, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the skillet. Cook until heated through.
4. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Spoon the beef and bean mixture over the chips.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Ground Beef and Lentil Stew
A comforting and nutritious stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines the richness of ground beef with the wholesome goodness of lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 7-8 minutes.
5. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and thyme.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Black Bean Enchiladas
Get ready to savor a delicious twist on traditional enchiladas with this recipe, which combines the richness of ground beef with the hearty goodness of black beans. This flavorful dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, diced tomatoes, and avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking into small pieces, until browned.
3. Add onion, garlic, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning beef mixture onto a tortilla, then rolling up and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Top with black beans, cheese, and cilantro. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Chickpea Curry
This flavorful curry recipe combines tender ground beef with nutritious chickpeas, onions, and spices for a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Serve over rice or with naan bread for a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Navy Bean Bake
A hearty, comforting casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines ground beef, navy beans, and a blend of spices in a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in the soaked and drained navy beans, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Red Bean Jambalaya
A classic Southern dish gets a bold twist with this spicy ground beef and red bean jambalaya recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked red beans
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the cooked red beans, diced tomatoes, and rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Ground Beef and Lima Bean Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup lima beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, lima beans, peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in flour and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Garbanzo Bean Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines the richness of ground beef with the nutty taste of garbanzo beans, all in a quick and easy dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup garbanzo beans (chopped)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped garbanzo beans, minced garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil to the skillet. Stir-fry until the ingredients are well combined and heated through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef and Black Bean Quesadillas
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this simple recipe that combines seasoned ground beef, black beans, and melted cheese inside crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, black beans, chili powder, and cumin. Cook in the skillet until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Meanwhile, place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add cooked ground beef mixture on top of the cheese.
5. Fold tortilla in half to enclose filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tortilla is crispy and cheese melted.
6. Flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef and White Bean Ragout
This classic French-inspired dish is a comforting blend of ground beef, tender white beans, and aromatic vegetables. Serve it over crusty bread or with a side of roasted potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 7-8 minutes.
5. Stir in the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Pinto Bean Sloppy Joes
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family. This sloppy joe variation adds the creamy texture of pinto beans to the traditional ground beef mixture, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked pinto beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cooked pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve the sloppy joe mixture on hamburger buns and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Black Bean Empanadas
A flavorful twist on traditional empanadas, these savory pastries combine the richness of ground beef with the boldness of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cooked black beans.
5. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Spoon beef and bean mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
7. Brush edges with water, then fold other half of pastry over filling. Press edges together to seal.
8. Place empanadas on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Brush tops with water and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine ground beef and beans for a comforting twist. From tacos to casseroles, soups to skillet dishes, there’s something for everyone. Spice things up with Spicy Ground Beef and Black Bean Tacos or try Cheesy Ground Beef and Pinto Bean Casserole for a classic comfort food. Or go international with Ground Beef and Chickpea Curry or Ground Beef and Navy Bean Bake. Whether you’re in the mood for something simple and satisfying or adventurous, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.
