I’ve been having so much fun in the kitchen lately, and I can’t wait to share my latest finds with you!
I’ve discovered 12 incredibly quick ground beef recipes that are absolutely delicious.
From classic tacos to savory Italian meatballs, and even a spicy beef chili, there’s something for everyone.
These recipes are super versatile, so you can easily adapt them to suit your personal taste or what you have on hand.
Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours cooking!
Classic Ground Beef Tacos

Ground beef tacos are a staple in Mexican cuisine and a favorite among many households across the globe. They’re a quick and easy meal option that offers a punch of flavor in every bite. The recipe we’re about to share is for classic ground beef tacos, perfect for a family meal or a casual get-together. They’re filling, nutritious, and can be easily customized according to individual preferences.
The process of making ground beef tacos involves cooking the beef with a variety of spices, and serving it on soft or hard shell tacos along with a choice of toppings. The rich, savory flavor of the beef pairs well with the fresh and tangy toppings, creating a delightful contrast in each bite. This recipe serves 4 to 6 people, making it the perfect dinner choice for a small gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 12 hard or soft taco shells
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan, sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the pan with onions and garlic. Break the beef up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and cooked through.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef, stir well to combine. Add the water and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until most of the water has evaporated and the beef is coated with seasoning.
- While the beef is cooking, prepare your taco shells according to the package instructions. This usually involves heating them in the oven for a few minutes.
- Once the beef is done cooking and the shells are prepared, you can start building your tacos. Start with a layer of the cooked beef, then add the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa. If desired, top with chopped cilantro.
- Serve the tacos immediately, with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top if desired.
When making these ground beef tacos, feel free to experiment with the toppings. You can add things like guacamole, pickled jalapenos, or even corn and beans for extra flavor and texture.
Also, if you have leftover cooked beef, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat it before using. Enjoy this classic Mexican dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Savory Italian Meatballs

A classic favorite in Italian cuisine, savory Italian meatballs are a versatile dish that can be served with pasta, on a sandwich, or on their own as a hearty appetizer. Made from ground beef and a blend of spices and herbs, these meatballs are bound to be a hit at your next family dinner.
The key to making these meatballs is in the mix of the ingredients and the way they’re cooked. Each meatball should be browned to perfection, creating a slightly crispy exterior while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.
This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for a small gathering or a family meal. The ingredients are simple and straightforward, and the cooking process is easy to follow. With just a bit of preparation and cooking time, you can serve up a plate of delicious savory Italian meatballs that your guests will surely love.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 jar marinara sauce
Cooking Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, beaten eggs, milk, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients well until they’re thoroughly combined.
- Form the meat mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands or a meatball scoop. This should yield about 24 meatballs, depending on the size.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs to the skillet.
- Cook the meatballs for about 10 minutes, or until they’re browned on all sides. Make sure to turn the meatballs often to guarantee even cooking.
- Once the meatballs are browned, add the marinara sauce to the skillet. Cover the skillet and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for another 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the skillet from the heat. Let the meatballs sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Extra Tips:
When cooking the meatballs, make sure that they aren’t overcrowded in the skillet. Overcrowding the pan can cause the meatballs to steam rather than brown, affecting their flavor and texture. If necessary, cook the meatballs in batches.
Also, be gentle when turning the meatballs to prevent them from breaking apart. Finally, serving the meatballs with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread can take your meal to the next level. Enjoy your savory Italian meatballs!
Quick Beef Stroganoff

If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish that you can whip up in no time, then quick beef stroganoff is a perfect choice. This traditional Russian meal is a combination of tender beef strips, sautéed onions, and mushrooms, all coated in a rich and creamy sauce. The best part? You can get this filling dish on the table in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Beef stroganoff is typically served over egg noodles or rice, but it’s versatile enough to pair with your favorite kind of pasta or even mashed potatoes. With a dish this delicious and easy-to-make, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds of sirloin steak, cut into thin strips
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups of sliced mushrooms
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for serving
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the sirloin strips to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove the cooked beef from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt the butter and add the chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and beginning to brown.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the pan, and continue to cook until the mushrooms are tender.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and mushroom mixture, stirring well to combine. Cook for another minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens.
- Lower the heat, and stir in the sour cream and Dijon mustard. Return the cooked beef to the pan, stirring well to coat it in the sauce.
- Let the stroganoff simmer for a few more minutes to heat the beef through.
- Serve the beef stroganoff over your choice of egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, and garnish with fresh parsley.
While this quick beef stroganoff recipe is simple to prepare, there are a few tips to keep in mind for the best results. Be sure to cut your sirloin into thin, even strips to guarantee quick and even cooking.
Additionally, avoid overcooking the beef, as this can make it tough. When adding the flour, be sure to cook it for a full minute to remove the raw flour taste. Finally, remember to lower the heat before adding the sour cream to prevent it from curdling.
Hearty Beef Chili

Hearty Beef Chili is a classic dish that’s loved by many for its rich flavors, comforting warmth, and hearty ingredients. This dish is a brilliant combination of delicious ground beef, an assortment of beans, aromatic spices, and a hint of natural sweetness from tomatoes.
It’s a go-to comfort food during the fall and winter seasons, but is equally satisfying any time of the year. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering.
The key to a great Hearty Beef Chili is to allow the flavors to meld together, creating a depth that can only be achieved by slow cooking. It’s a dish that rewards patience, as the longer it cooks, the better it tastes. Whether you’re a chili novice or an experienced cook, this recipe will guide you on how to make a savory, rich, and comforting pot of Hearty Beef Chili.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds of ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) of diced tomatoes
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of chili powder
- 1 tablespoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks, for about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the cooked beef from the pot and set it aside. Leave the remaining fat in the pot for flavor.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Return the cooked beef to the pot and add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.
- Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 2 hours. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will develop.
- Serve the chili in bowls, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Extra Tips:
When making Hearty Beef Chili, remember that the key is in the simmering. The longer the chili simmers, the more flavorful it will be.
Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste, but keep in mind that the flavors will intensify as it cooks. You can also add other vegetables or substitute the beans according to your preference.
Finally, this dish is perfect for leftovers as the flavors continue to meld overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Delicious Ground Beef Stir-Fry

Ground beef is a staple in many kitchens around the world due to its versatility and rich flavor. It can be used in a variety of dishes, from burgers and meatballs to pasta sauces and lasagnas. One delicious and easy way to use ground beef is in a stir-fry. This Ground Beef Stir-Fry is a flavorful and filling dish that can be made in less than 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and the leftovers make a great lunch the next day.
This stir-fry combines the savory taste of ground beef with colorful vegetables and a delicious soy sauce-based stir-fry sauce. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using a different protein. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your tastes. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for a family meal or a dinner party.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb of ground beef
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup of broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons of water
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the garlic and onion. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender. This should take about 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, cornstarch, water, and sesame oil. Stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
- Return the ground beef to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with rice or noodles.
When making this Ground Beef Stir-Fry, feel free to swap out any of the vegetables for your favorites or whatever you have on hand. This is a great way to use up leftover vegetables in your fridge.
Also, for a spicier version, you can add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the stir-fry sauce. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Enjoy this quick, easy, and savory dish!
Beef and Broccoli Delight

Beef and Broccoli Delight is a savory and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe combines tender, flavorful ground beef with fresh, crispy broccoli in a savory sauce. The dish is easy to prepare, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish, and the result is a healthy meal that’s packed with protein and fiber.
This dish is incredibly versatile – you can serve it over rice, noodles, or even on its own. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for the kids, and you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your family’s tastes. With its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, Beef and Broccoli Delight is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the mixture is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook until the broccoli is bright green and tender, about 5 minutes.
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for about 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish the dish with thinly sliced green onions before serving.
Extra Tips:
When cooking this Beef and Broccoli Delight, it’s important to not overcook the broccoli. The broccoli should be vibrant green and still have a bit of crunch to it. If you prefer your broccoli to be softer, you can steam it ahead of time before adding it to the skillet.
Also, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level. If you’re not a fan of heat, you can omit them altogether. Finally, this dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
One-Pot Beef Lasagna

One-pot beef lasagna is a dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, tomato sauce, and various cheeses to create a hearty meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Making lasagna might sound like a complicated task, but by using just one pot, this recipe simplifies the process and reduces the amount of cleanup required.
This warm, cheesy, and flavorful dish is an excellent option for a family dinner or gathering, serving 4-6 people. This recipe uses ground beef as the main protein, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.
With layers of lasagna noodles, meat sauce, and a mix of mozzarella and ricotta cheese, every bite is filled with a delicious combination of textures and flavors. The best part is that everything is cooked in one pot, making this a convenient meal to prepare even on busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion to the pot and stir. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Once the mixture is simmering, add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Stir again to make sure the noodles are fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked to your desired firmness.
- Preheat your oven’s broiler. Once the noodles are done, spoon dollops of ricotta cheese on top of the lasagna. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top of the ricotta.
- Place the pot in the oven and broil until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. This should take about 5 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Remove the pot from the oven and let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Here’s an extra tip to note when preparing this one-pot lasagna recipe: Be sure to properly season the ground beef with salt and pepper. This will increase the flavor of the beef and the overall dish.
Also, keep in mind that the lasagna will continue to cook a bit after you remove it from the oven, so it’s better to undercook the noodles slightly than to overcook them.
Easy Beef Enchiladas

Beef enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that can be easily prepared at home. Enchiladas are fundamentally tortillas filled with a flavorful meat mixture, rolled up, and smothered in a vibrant sauce and gooey cheese. This recipe for Easy Beef Enchiladas is a hearty and satisfying dish, perfect for feeding a crowd or for a cozy family dinner. With savory ground beef, a blend of spices, and creamy cheese, every bite is a delight.
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. The enchiladas are assembled in a casserole dish and baked until bubbly and golden. This is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. You can add beans, corn, or even some diced jalapenos to the beef mixture for a touch of heat. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or sauces, too.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) of enchilada sauce
- 1 can (4 oz) of diced green chilies
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 small corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Sour cream, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the enchilada sauce, diced green chilies, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Lay a tortilla flat and spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture down the center. Top with a sprinkling of cheese and roll up the tortilla. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and beef mixture.
- Arrange the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour any remaining sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Bake the enchiladas in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
When making these enchiladas, it’s important to remember that the tortillas will soften as they absorb the sauce, so there’s no need to pre-cook them.
Also, be mindful not to overfill the tortillas as they could break when you roll them up. Ultimately, feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preference. For instance, if you like a bit more heat, you can use a spicier enchilada sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
Enjoy this comforting dish with a side of rice or a fresh salad.
Tasty Beef Shepherd’s Pie

A staple in British cuisine, Beef Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and comforting dish that’s sure to warm you up on a cold day. Traditionally made with lamb, this version utilizes ground beef as the main protein, making it more accessible for those who prefer beef. This savory pie is packed with flavor, with a rich, meaty filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
And the best part? It’s all baked in one dish, making for easy cleanup!
This Beef Shepherd’s Pie recipe is perfect for a family dinner or for serving guests. It’s a complete meal in itself, with protein, carbs, and veggies all in one dish. The ground beef is cooked with onions, carrots, and peas, then topped with mashed potatoes and baked until golden and bubbly. This makes for a serving size of 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds of ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 1 cup of frozen peas
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1 cup of beef broth
- 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
- Start by boiling the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they’re tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no pink remains. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onions and carrots. Cook until they’re soft and the onions are translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir until they’re coated. Slowly add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it has thickened.
- Add the cooked beef and frozen peas to the skillet and stir until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them out to cover the beef completely. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking a Beef Shepherd’s Pie might seem intimidating, but it’s actually quite straightforward. One tip to keep in mind is to not skimp on the seasoning – both the beef mixture and the mashed potatoes need a good amount of salt and pepper to bring out their flavors.
Also, be sure to let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to serve. This dish is best enjoyed hot, so serve immediately after cooling for the most satisfying experience.
Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a delicious and quick meal option that offers a burst of flavors on your taste buds. The recipe blends together the savory taste of ground beef with the sweet and spicy Korean sauce, topped with rejuvenating slices of cucumber and green onions.
It’s a perfect dinner option for those busy weeknights when you want to whip up something tasty and filling in no time. This recipe is inspired by the traditional Korean Bulgogi, but simplified using ground beef instead of sliced beef.
With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this Korean Ground Beef Bowl will soon be a favorite in your household. It serves 4-6 people, making it a great option for family meals or small get-togethers.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of lean ground beef
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1 cup of soy sauce
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2-3 green onions, sliced
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 4-6 cups of cooked white rice
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by cooking the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it into crumbles and cook until it’s no longer pink.
- While the beef is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like it spicy.
- Once the beef is fully cooked, drain the grease from the skillet.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked beef and stir until the beef is evenly coated.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the beef simmer in the sauce for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- While the beef is simmering, prepare the rice according to the package instructions.
- To serve, divide the cooked rice among 4-6 bowls. Top each bowl with an equal amount of the saucy ground beef.
- Garnish each bowl with slices of cucumber, green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Extra tips:
Familiarize yourself with the heat level of your red pepper flakes. If they’re particularly spicy, you might want to use less.
Also, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to the ground beef for a more nutritious meal. Just make sure to sauté them until they’re tender before adding the beef.
Finally, if you want to make this dish even more authentic, try using gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) instead of crushed red pepper flakes.
Ground Beef Goulash Surprise

Ground Beef Goulash Surprise is a delightful spin on the traditional Hungarian dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds. This hearty, savory dish is an excellent choice for a family dinner, bringing together the comforting flavors of ground beef, paprika, and a mix of vegetables in a rich tomato sauce. The “surprise” in this recipe is a hint of sweet and spicy, which gives this classic dish an exciting twist.
This recipe is easy to make and requires basic kitchen tools. It’s also highly customizable, allowing you to add or substitute ingredients based on your preference. Perfectly served with a side of bread or over a bed of pasta, this Ground Beef Goulash Surprise is bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs of ground beef
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) of diced tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 1 cup of red wine
- 3 tablespoons of worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup of sour cream
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and bell peppers and sauté until the onions become translucent and the peppers soften.
- Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned and then drain the excess fat.
- Stir in the paprika, cayenne pepper, and sugar. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to coat the beef and vegetables with the spices.
- Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, red wine, and worcestershire sauce to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- After 45 minutes, stir in the sour cream until it’s fully incorporated. Let the goulash cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Your Ground Beef Goulash Surprise is now ready to serve!
Extra Tips:
When cooking the Ground Beef Goulash Surprise, make sure that you stir the pot occasionally during the simmering process. This will prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning.
Additionally, while this recipe calls for a specific set of vegetables, feel free to add others such as carrots or potatoes for an added nutritional boost.
Finally, the goulash can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great make-ahead meal option.
Quick Tex-Mex Beef Quesadillas

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a fun, interactive meal to enjoy with your family, Quick Tex-Mex Beef Quesadillas are a fantastic choice. With a recipe boasting a hearty filling of ground beef, seasoned to perfection with Tex-Mex spices and a generous portion of gooey, melted cheese, these quesadillas are sure to be a hit. Not only are they delicious, but they can also be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
What makes this recipe so special is the array of flavors that are infused into the beef. The combination of the spices, along with the onions and bell peppers, creates a mouthwatering filling that pairs perfectly with the crisp tortilla and melted cheese. The result is a satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet and return it to the heat.
- Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Lay out your tortillas and evenly distribute the beef mixture onto one half of each tortilla. Sprinkle the cheese over the top of the beef.
- Fold the tortilla in half over the filling, pressing down gently to seal.
- Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and add a little bit of oil.
- Cook the quesadillas, two at a time, for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
- Cut each quesadilla into halves or quarters, and serve hot.
When preparing Quick Tex-Mex Beef Quesadillas, it’s important to guarantee your skillet is hot before adding the tortillas. This will help them crisp up nicely without becoming soggy from the filling.
Additionally, it’s best to serve these quesadillas immediately while the cheese is still melted and gooey. Finally, feel free to customize this recipe with additional toppings such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole to add even more flavor and texture.

