Weeknight dinners just got a whole lot easier with these 17 ground beef recipes that are quick, easy, and totally crave-worthy. They’re the kind of meals that make you think, “Why didn’t I make this last night?” With a few simple steps, you’ll have a meal on the table that’s sure to make everyone want seconds—and maybe even thirds. These dishes are guaranteed to become a regular in your weeknight rotation.

A slice of John Wayne casserole on a black plate beside a baking dish of the same casserole.
John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Mom’s Hamburger Stew

A cast iron skillet filled with Mom’s Hamburger Stew garnished with herbs.
Mom’s Hamburger Stew. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Not every meal needs to be an elaborate affair. Sometimes, what hits the spot is a comforting bowl of stew, just like Mom used to make. Mom’s Hamburger Stew wraps warmth and homeliness into every bite, offering a simple pleasure that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s an ode to simplicity, bringing together ground beef in a way that feels both nourishing and fulfilling. When you’re in need of a hug in a bowl, this is where you turn.
Get the Recipe: Mom’s Hamburger Stew

Classic Skillet Lasagna with Ground Beef

A hand holds a fork with a Classic Skillet Lasagna with Ground Beef topped with melted cheese and herbs.
Classic Skillet Lasagna with Ground Beef. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Ever wanted to whip up something that tastes like you slaved away for hours, but without the actual slaving away? Classic Skillet Lasagna with Ground Beef is your answer. It combines the comforting layers of cheese, pasta, and meaty goodness into a one-pan wonder that saves on time without skimping on flavor. Perfect for those evenings when you want a taste of Italy without the fuss. This dish proves that quick can still mean delicious.
Get the Recipe: Classic Skillet Lasagna with Ground Beef

Meaty Texas Cowboy Stew

Bowl of Texas cowboy stew accompanied by spoons, on a brick-patterned surface.
Meaty Texas Cowboy Stew. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

If ever there was a stew that could make you feel like you’re sitting around a campfire under the stars, it’s this one. Meaty Texas Cowboy Stew comes packed with hearty flavors that speak of adventure and the great outdoors. It’s a bold, robust meal that fills you up and leaves you satisfied, making it just right for when you’re famished. With a stew like this, who needs a campfire? It’s the wild west served right at your table.
Get the Recipe: Meaty Texas Cowboy Stew

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich on a white plate with chips.
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Sometimes it’s the simplest pleasures that win the day. Take, for instance, a Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. Juicy ground beef tucked between warm buns, it’s a humble yet irresistible dish that nods to classic American diners. Ideal for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, it’s a straightforward delight that reminds you why sometimes, simple is best. And yes, it’s as fun to eat as it sounds.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Kefta Beef Kabobs

Kefta Beef Kabobs stacked on a white platter.
Kefta Beef Kabobs. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

When you’re looking for something a bit different but still packed with protein, why not take a culinary trip to the Mediterranean? Kefta Beef Kabobs are just the ticket, with flavors that are as vibrant as the streets of Marrakech. They’re perfect for shaking up your weeknight routine, offering a tantalizing break from the norm. Grilled to perfection, they offer a feast for the senses. So, who’s ready for a flavor vacation?
Get the Recipe: Kefta Beef Kabobs

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Spaghetti with meat and cheese in a baking dish.
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine a dish so rich in flavor and texture, it feels like a million bucks but without the hefty price tag. That’s where Million Dollar Spaghetti steps in. It’s a gooey, cheesy, and utterly indulgent experience that merges the best parts of spaghetti and lasagna into one. Ideal for when you’re craving comfort food but want something a little extra. It proves that you don’t need to spend a lot to feel like you’re dining in luxury.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Korean Beef Bowl

A top-down shot of Korean Beef Bowl with chopsticks, garlic, and ginger on the side.
Korean Beef Bowl. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Craving something with a bit of international flair? Korean Beef Bowl brings the vibrant tastes of Korea right to your kitchen. It’s a quick, flavorful meal that combines sweet and tasty notes in one compact bowl of deliciousness. Perfect for a busy weeknight when time is tight but you still want something satisfying. It’s like a passport for your palate, no travel required.
Get the Recipe: Korean Beef Bowl

Bacon-Wrapped Burgers

Bacon-Wrapped Burger on a black plate.
Bacon-Wrapped Burgers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

These Bacon-Wrapped Burgers upgrade your typical burger night into something extraordinary. It’s a match made in heaven, combining the smokiness of bacon with the juiciness of ground beef. This is the kind of meal that makes you wonder why all burgers aren’t made this way. Fire up the grill and get ready for a treat. Why settle for a regular burger when you can have one that’s wrapped in bacon?
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Burgers

Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

Four pieces of Air Fryer Beef Empanadas on a black rectangular slate.
Air Fryer Beef Empanadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those who love the idea of a handheld meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, Air Fryer Beef Empanadas are a revelation. They’re crispy on the outside, meaty on the inside, and just the right size for eating on the go. Thanks to the air fryer, they’re a lighter alternative to their deep-fried cousins, making them a guilt-free pleasure. It’s a fun and convenient way to enjoy a classic without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

Classic Hamburger Stew

A pot of classic hamburger stew and a wooden spoon.
Classic Hamburger Stew. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

There’s nothing quite like the nostalgia of familiar flavors, especially when it comes to comfort food. Classic Hamburger Stew is one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect pick for chilly evenings or anytime you need a bit of comfort. It’s a testament to the timeless appeal of well-loved recipes. So, go ahead and spoon up some nostalgia.
Get the Recipe: Classic Hamburger Stew

Mini Meatloaf

3 Mini Meatloaves in a line on a white plate.
Mini Meatloaf. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For those evenings when a full-size meatloaf feels like too much, Mini Meatloaf offers the perfect solution. These little loaves pack all the flavor you love into a size that’s just right for individual servings. They’re adorable, convenient, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a fun twist on a classic that proves good things indeed come in small packages. Let’s get mini with it!
Get the Recipe: Mini Meatloaf

Beef and Barley Soup

A bowl of Beef and Barley Soup with a burger on a long white tray.
Beef and Barley Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The perfect meal for when you’re seeking something deeply gratifying to nourish both body and soul. On days when the world outside seems a bit too much, a bowl of Beef and Barley Soup can be just the thing to ground you. It’s rich, comforting, and filled with the wholesome goodness of beef and grains. It’s like a cozy blanket in edible form. Slide into your comfiest chair and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Barley Soup

Copycat Hamburger Helper Skillet Lasagna

A skillet lasagna topped with melted cheese, a dollop of ricotta, and fresh basil.
Copycat Hamburger Helper Skillet Lasagna. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Who hasn’t reached for a box of Hamburger Helper on a hectic day? But what if you could get that same convenience with a homemade twist? Enter Copycat Hamburger Helper Skillet Lasagna. It offers all the comfort and ease of the boxed version but with a homemade touch that makes it all the more special. Ideal for busy weeknights when you’re craving something familiar yet homemade. It’s quick, comforting, and utterly delicious.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Hamburger Helper Skillet Lasagna

Authentic Bolognese Sauce

Bolognese Sauce on pasta.
Authentic Bolognese Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a dish that feels like a journey to Italy without leaving your kitchen, Authentic Bolognese Sauce is a must-try. This rich, meaty sauce clings to pasta in a way that’s both gratifying and utterly indulgent. It’s the result of slow-cooked perfection, a testament to the magic that happens when you let flavors meld together over time. Perfect for a weekend meal that’s worth the wait. Let’s bring a taste of Italy home.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Bolognese Sauce

Beefy Cabbage Roll Casserole

A slice of Beefy cabbage roll casserole on a black plate.
Beefy Cabbage Roll Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Ever thought about deconstructing a classic and turning it into something new? Beefy Cabbage Roll Casserole does just that. It takes the beloved flavors of traditional cabbage rolls and turns them into a casserole that’s both easy to make and wonderful to eat. It’s a creative twist on a classic that’s sure to please anyone looking for the taste of nostalgia without the work. This dish is all about comfort without the complication.
Get the Recipe: Beefy Cabbage Roll Casserole

Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger soup in two serving bowls.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you love cheeseburgers but are in the mood for something more spoonable, Cheeseburger Soup is your go-to. It’s as quirky and delicious as it sounds, blending the iconic flavors of a cheeseburger into a creamy, comforting soup. Perfect for when you want the taste of a BBQ in a bowl. It strikes an amusing balance between familiar and novel, ensuring dinner is anything but boring. Who knew a soup could be so fun?
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

John Wayne Casserole

A slice of John Wayne casserole on a black plate beside a baking dish of the same casserole.
John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Last but not least, for a dish that’s as bold as its namesake, John Wayne Casserole is hard to beat. It’s hearty, filled with layers of flavor, and decidedly gratifying, making it a crowd-pleaser at any table. It combines some of the best flavors of the South into one baking dish, proving that sometimes, more is indeed more. So, gather around the table and dish up some heartiness. It’s what dinner legends are made of.
Get the Recipe: John Wayne Casserole

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