Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that’s both budget-friendly and easy to cook. It can be transformed into a wide range of delicious meals, from classic comfort food to quick and healthy weeknight dinners. In this article, we’ll explore some simple ground beef recipes that are perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
1. Classic Cheeseburgers
What’s more American than a good old-fashioned cheeseburger? This classic recipe is simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add veggies: Stir in the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook until softened.
3. Season: Season the beef mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble burgers: Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties.
5. Grill or pan-fry: Grill the patties over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side, or cook them in a skillet until cooked through.
6. Top and serve: Place a slice of cheese on each patty and let it melt. Serve on hamburger buns with your favorite toppings.
2. Easy Meatloaf
Meatloaf is a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. This recipe is simple to follow and results in a moist and flavorful loaf.
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
Instructions:
1. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, onion, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Shape the loaf: Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
3. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
3. Quick and Easy Spaghetti
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic Italian-American dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe uses ground beef to make simple meatballs that are cooked right in the sauce.
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
Instructions:
1. Make meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Form meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs: Heat the marinara sauce in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Cook spaghetti: While the meatballs are cooking, cook the spaghetti according to package directions.
5. Serve: Drain the spaghetti and combine with the meatballs and sauce. Serve immediately.
4. Hearty Chili
Chili is a warm and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef: In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Sauté vegetables: Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened.
3. Combine ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chili seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Serve: Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped onions.