When it comes to cooking for picky eaters, finding recipes that are both delicious and appealing can be a challenge. But fear not! Ground beef is a staple in many households, and with these 20 kid-friendly recipes, you’ll have a variety of options to please even the most discerning palates.
From classic comfort foods like casserole and pasta dishes, to creative twists on tacos and burgers, we’ve got you covered. Our collection of ground beef recipes is designed to be easy to make, fun to eat, and (most importantly) loved by kids. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become family favorites.
In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering ground beef recipes that are perfect for kids. From cheesy casseroles to savory stir-fries, each recipe is designed to be kid-approved and easy to make. So, let’s get cooking!
Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a hearty blend of tender beef, flavorful rice, and melted cheese – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and frozen peas and carrots to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in cooked rice, shredded cheese, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Meatloaf Muffins
These bite-sized treats combine the comfort of meatloaf with the convenience of muffins, perfect for snacking or meal prep. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy these mini masterpieces in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12-15 mini muffin liners
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Divide the mixture into 12-15 portions, depending on desired size.
5. Place each portion into a mini muffin liner.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beefy Quesadillas with Hidden Veggies
Transform traditional beef quesadillas into a nutritious and flavorful meal by hiding finely chopped veggies within the filling. This recipe is perfect for picky eaters or those looking to sneak in some extra nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, onion, bell pepper, and half of the cheddar cheese. Cook until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as needed.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle a quarter of the beef mixture onto half of the tortilla. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted. Flip and cook an additional 2 minutes. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe takes the classic stuffed pepper and gives it a south-of-the-border twist by filling bell peppers with taco-seasoned rice, ground beef, and shredded cheese. The result is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and cooked rice to the skillet. Stir well.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the taco mixture, topping with shredded cheese.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
One-Pot Spaghetti with Ground Beef
Quickly cook up a satisfying spaghetti dish without the hassle of multiple pots and pans! This one-pot recipe combines ground beef, onions, garlic, and tomatoes for a flavorful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup spaghetti
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, spaghetti, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the spaghetti is al dente.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Cheese Sliders
Satisfy your cravings with these mouthwatering Beef and Cheese Sliders, packed with tender beef, melted cheese, and a hint of savory flavor. Perfect for parties or game-day gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 8-10 small patties.
4. Grill burgers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a cooked patty on each bun, then topping with shredded cheese.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Hidden Veggie Beef Burgers
Boost your burger game with this simple and delicious recipe that sneaks in some extra veggies! With just a few tricks up your sleeve, you can create mouthwatering patties that are packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
– 1/4 cup grated zucchini
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
– Optional: your favorite burger toppings and condiments
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine beef, mushrooms, zucchini, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix with hands until just combined.
3. Add egg and mix until the mixture is sticky and uniform.
4. Divide into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Gently flatten into patties.
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings and condiments.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Beef and Potato Hash
Beef and Potato Hash Recipe
Easy Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family. This recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon 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 ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve on hamburger buns or over rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable 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 the pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan, then add garlic and broccoli. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beefy Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this hearty Beefy Mac and Cheese recipe, featuring tender beef, creamy pasta, and a rich cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. 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 diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in tomato paste, then add milk, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with the beef and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Taco Pasta Salad
Add a twist to traditional pasta salad with this flavorful Taco Pasta Salad recipe. This Mexican-inspired dish combines the comfort of pasta with the excitement of taco flavors.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow-tie or penne)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cooked ground beef (or ground turkey/breakfast sausage)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled tortilla chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cooked ground beef and taco seasoning; stir until combined.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes or until they release their juices.
4. Combine cooked pasta, taco mixture, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro in a large bowl.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle crumbled tortilla chips on top.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Ground beef, sweet corn, and crumbled cornbread come together in a rich and savory dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 1/2 cups crumbled cornbread (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in corn kernels, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
7. Layer the beef mixture, crumbled cornbread, and shredded cheese in that order.
8. Pour the milk-egg mixture over the top layer of cornbread.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Beef Empanadas
These savory pastries are filled with tender beef, melted cheese, and a hint of spice, making them the perfect snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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 chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Roll out empanada dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares or use a cookie cutter for fun shapes.
6. Place a spoonful of beef mixture onto one half of each square, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
7. Fold the other half over the filling, pressing edges together to seal.
8. Fry empanadas in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Alternatively, bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden.
9. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (baking) or 6-8 minutes (frying)
Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This recipe combines tender beef, sweet potatoes, and savory spices for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sweet potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked beef back into the skillet and stir to distribute evenly.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Beefy Tater Tot Casserole
Get ready for a comforting, satisfying casserole that combines the richness of ground beef with the crispy goodness of tater tots!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag (32 oz) tater tots
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned; drain excess fat.
3. Add peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Spread tater tots in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour the beef mixture over the tater tots.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef
These flavorful boats are a twist on traditional stuffed peppers, using zucchinis instead for a refreshing summer twist. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the zucchinis and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture, followed by a spoonful of breadcrumbs and some grated cheese.
6. Place boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down. Drizzle with cooking spray or olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until zucchinis are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Cheese Taquitos
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these crispy and flavorful Beef and Cheese Taquitos! This recipe is a twist on the classic Mexican dish, packed with tender beef, melted cheese, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and combined with the beef mixture.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the taquitos by spooning the beef and cheese mixture onto the center of each tortilla, then rolling up tightly.
6. Fry the taquitos in hot oil until crispy and golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
A twist on traditional lasagna, these beef and spinach filled rolls are an easy and impressive meal option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
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, onion, and garlic until browned. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked beef mixture, ricotta cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
5. To assemble the rolls, lay a cooked lasagna noodle flat. Place 1/4 cup of the beef and spinach mixture at one end, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
6. Roll up the noodle tightly, then place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.
7. Top rolled lasagna noodles with mozzarella cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Beef and Bean Burritos
This recipe is a flavorful and filling twist on traditional burritos. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked kidney beans
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet 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 taco seasoning and cooked kidney beans.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by spooning the beef and bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese (if using).
6. Roll up the burritos and serve with salsa and sour cream (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to please even the pickiest eaters with these 20 delicious kid-friendly ground beef recipes! From classic comfort food to creative twists, these dishes are sure to become family favorites. With hidden veggies and fun presentation, you’ll be serving up meals that kids will love without compromising on taste or nutrition. Try cheesy beef and rice casserole, mini meatloaf muffins, beefy quesadillas, and more – there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to hit the spot!
Leave a Reply