11 Fresh Crockpot Dinner Recipes Ground Beef Fans Can Count On

As a fan of ground beef, I understand the challenge of keeping meals fresh and exciting. Picture coming home to the comforting aroma of a dinner that cooked itself. With these 11 crockpot recipes, you’ll find hearty chili, savory tacos, and cheesy pasta bakes that make dinner prep simple and satisfying. Ready to make dinner a breeze with minimal effort? Let’s explore these delicious dishes that redefine comfort food.

Classic Crockpot Chili

Classic Crockpot Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. This recipe combines ground beef, beans, and a medley of spices to create a rich and satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out.

Cooking chili in a crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time, making every bite a delicious experience. The slow cooking process also guarantees that the beef becomes incredibly tender, while the spices infuse deeply into the dish.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for family meals or leftovers that taste even better the next day. With minimal prep and a few hours in the crockpot, you’ll have a comforting chili that’s perfect served with crusty bread, over rice, or topped with your favorite garnishes like cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: To the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add this mixture to the crockpot with the beef.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth into the crockpot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
4. Season the Chili: Sprinkle the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper over the mixture in the crockpot. Stir again to make sure the spices are evenly distributed.
5. Cook the Chili: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer the chili cooks, the more the flavors will develop.
6. Adjust Seasoning: About 30 minutes before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt or spices according to your preference.
7. Serve: Once done, serve the chili hot in bowls. You can top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro, or enjoy it plain.

Extra Tips:

For a deeper and more robust flavor, consider browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic the night before. This not only saves time in the morning but also allows the flavors to develop more overnight.

If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of beef broth or let the chili simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking. Finally, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months, making this a versatile dish to have on hand.

Simple Slow-Cooked Beef Tacos

Simple Slow-Cooked Beef Tacos are a delightful and effortless way to enjoy a Mexican-inspired meal right from your crockpot. This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef with spices and a touch of heat, resulting in tender, juicy taco meat that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a laid-back gathering with friends, these tacos are sure to impress with minimal effort on your part. Simply set your ingredients in the crockpot and let it do all the hard work while you take care of other tasks or simply relax.

With this recipe, you’ll enjoy tacos that are full of flavor and perfectly seasoned. The slow-cooking process allows the spices to meld beautifully with the beef, creating a mouthwatering filling that can be served with your favorite taco toppings.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability, making it easy for anyone to customize to their liking. Serve these tacos with fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges for a revitalizing finish. Perfect for a serving size of 4-6 people, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your crockpot repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 12 small taco shells or tortillas
• Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, lime wedges

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Drain the diced tomatoes and set them aside. These ingredients will add depth of flavor to your beef mixture.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary. This step helps develop the beef’s flavor and prevents the dish from becoming too greasy.
3. Transfer to Crockpot: Add the browned beef to your crockpot along with the chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all the spices with the beef thoroughly.
4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the drained diced tomatoes, green chilies, and beef broth. Mix everything well. The moisture from these ingredients will help in slow cooking and infusing the flavors.
5. Slow Cook the Beef: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow-cooking process tenderizes the beef and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Assemble the Tacos: Once the beef is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Warm the taco shells or tortillas according to the package instructions. Fill each shell with a generous scoop of the beef mixture.
7. Add Toppings: Top the beef with your choice of optional toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, and lime wedges.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice to the beef mixture before serving. If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely.

You can also prepare the beef mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator—simply reheat before serving. This dish pairs excellently with a side of Mexican rice or black beans.

Finally, try using different types of tortillas, such as corn or flour, to find the perfect match for your taste.

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delightful and comforting meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. This dish combines the earthy flavors of ground beef with aromatic spices, herbs, and fresh vegetables, all encased in sweet and tender bell peppers. Ideal for those busy weeknights, these stuffed peppers are cooked to perfection in a crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld together while you go about your day. Perfect for families or gatherings, this recipe serves 4-6 people, guaranteeing there’s plenty to go around.

The key to this recipe is using a slow cooking method, which enhances the depth of flavors and guarantees the beef is cooked just right. The combination of ground beef seasoned with onions, garlic, and a medley of spices creates a rich filling that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the bell peppers. Topped with a layer of melted cheese, these stuffed peppers aren’t only visually appealing but irresistible to taste.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers are simple to prepare and sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Ingredients for 4-6 Servings:

• 6 large bell peppers
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 cup beef broth

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bell Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse them under cold water and set aside.
2. Cook the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat.
3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well mixed.
4. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack the filling. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the crockpot.
5. Add the Broth: Pour the beef broth into the crockpot around the peppers, being careful not to pour it over the tops of the peppers.
6. Cook the Peppers: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the peppers are tender.
7. Add Cheese and Serve: About 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the tops of the stuffed peppers. Cover and allow the cheese to melt. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

For best results, choose bell peppers that are uniform in size so they cook evenly. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider using a mix of sweet and spicy peppers. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for topping, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to suit your taste preferences.

If you’re preparing this dish ahead of time, the stuffed peppers can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator overnight, then cooked in the crockpot the following day. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this hearty meal!

Warm Up With Beef and Veggie Stew

As the temperatures drop, there’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of stew to warm you up from the inside out. This Beef and Veggie Stew is the perfect dish to fill your home with hearty aromas and your belly with satisfying flavors. Utilizing a crockpot, this recipe allows the ingredients to slowly meld together, creating a rich and flavorful meal with minimal effort.

The ground beef provides a robust base, while the variety of vegetables adds layers of taste and nutrition, making this stew not only delicious but also wholesome. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family dinner or a small gathering.

The use of a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, letting the stew simmer away while you go about your day. Whether you’re returning home from work or a day out in the cold, this beef and veggie stew will be ready to welcome you with its savory goodness.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion, slice the carrots, dice the potatoes, chop the celery, and mince the garlic for easy access during cooking.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain the excess fat.
3. Combine in the Crockpot: Transfer the browned ground beef to the crockpot. Add the chopped onions, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped celery, minced garlic, and frozen peas.
4. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth and add the tomato paste. Stir in the dried thyme and rosemary, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well to guarantee the seasonings are evenly distributed.
5. Cook the Stew: Set the crockpot to low and let the stew cook for 6-8 hours, or set it to high for 3-4 hours. The long, slow cooking process will allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Final Touches: Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes with a fork to thicken the broth.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of your Beef and Veggie Stew, consider browning the onions along with the ground beef before adding them to the crockpot. This extra step can deepen the flavor profile of the stew.

You can also experiment with additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms based on your preferences. If you find the stew too thick after cooking, simply add a bit more beef broth to reach your desired consistency.

Zesty Italian-Style Meatballs

Zesty Italian-Style Meatballs are a delightful twist on classic meatballs, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe combines the rich flavors of Italian herbs and spices with the savory goodness of ground beef, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

The slow cooking process in a crockpot allows the meatballs to absorb all the flavors from the sauce, making them incredibly tender and flavorful. Not only are these meatballs delicious, but they also offer the convenience of being made in a crockpot, freeing you up to attend to other tasks or simply relax while dinner takes care of itself.

Perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, Zesty Italian-Style Meatballs are versatile enough to be served over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or with a simple side salad. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian-style breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
2. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs. You should have approximately 18-24 meatballs, depending on the size. Place them on a plate or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Brown the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch. This step adds flavor and helps the meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
4. Prepare the Crockpot: In the crockpot, combine the marinara sauce and water. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook the Meatballs: Gently transfer the browned meatballs into the crockpot, nestling them into the sauce. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the meatballs become tender and juicy.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the meatballs are cooked through, serve them hot over a bed of pasta, in a sandwich, or alongside your favorite sides. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Extra Tips: For an even deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a bay leaf to the marinara sauce before cooking. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the Italian-style breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Finally, these meatballs freeze well, so feel free to double the recipe and save some for a future meal. Simply cool the meatballs completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.

Creamy Beef Stroganoff for Cozy Nights

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty meal on a chilly evening, and creamy beef stroganoff is the perfect dish to satisfy that craving. This classic recipe, made easier with a crockpot, combines tender ground beef with a rich and creamy sauce that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.

The slow-cooked method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with savory goodness. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this creamy beef stroganoff is a fantastic choice.

The crockpot does most of the work, so you can enjoy more time with your loved ones while the delicious aroma fills your home. Serve it over a bed of egg noodles or mashed potatoes to complete the meal, and you’ll have a cozy dinner that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 12 ounces egg noodles
• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef into the crockpot.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until they’re softened. Transfer the vegetables to the crockpot.
3. Mix Ingredients in Crockpot: Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper to the crockpot. Stir everything together to combine.
4. Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
5. Prepare the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, in a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, Dijon mustard, and flour until smooth. Stir this mixture into the crockpot and mix well.
6. Cook Noodles: While the sauce is thickening in the crockpot, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. Combine and Serve: Once the sauce has thickened and is creamy, add the cooked egg noodles to the crockpot. Mix everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of your beef stroganoff, consider deglazing the skillet with a splash of white wine after cooking the vegetables. This will add a depth of flavor to the dish.

Additionally, if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can increase the amount of flour slightly. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. Finally, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Spicy Taco Soup

Spicy Taco Soup is a deliciously hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion, bringing together the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comforting warmth of a soup. This dish is ideal for those cold winter nights or any time you’re in the mood for something spicy and satisfying.

Using a crockpot makes it incredibly easy to prepare, as you can simply combine the ingredients and let them slowly cook to perfection. The ground beef provides a robust base, while the spices and vegetables add layers of flavor that are sure to awaken your taste buds.

This recipe serves 4-6 people and is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the spice levels and ingredients to suit your personal preferences. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a quick meal to prepare for your family, Spicy Taco Soup is certain to be a hit.

The combination of ground beef, beans, corn, and tomatoes in a spicy broth creates a flavorful and filling meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to your crockpot.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the crockpot with the beef. This will allow their flavors to infuse into the soup as it cooks.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chiles. Stir in the taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, and beef broth. Mix well to ascertain that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Cook the Soup: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and flavorful soup.
5. Season to Taste: Before serving, taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. You may also adjust the level of spiciness by adding more chili powder if desired.

Extra Tips:

For an even more flavorful experience, consider topping your Spicy Taco Soup with some shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro.

For those who love a crunch, serve it with tortilla chips or strips on the side. If you’re looking to make the dish even heartier, you can add additional vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.

Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake

Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This delicious dish combines tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked together to perfection in a crockpot.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish, Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake is bound to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Using a crockpot to prepare this dish not only saves time but also guarantees that the pasta absorbs the savory flavors of the beef and cheese sauce. The convenience of the crockpot makes this recipe ideal for busy families, as you can simply set it and forget it while attending to other tasks.

Plus, the combination of gooey cheese and seasoned beef is a classic comfort food pairing that never goes out of style. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on making this Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake that serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 12 ounces pasta (such as penne or rotini)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
2. Season the Beef: Stir in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: In the crockpot, combine the browned beef, marinara sauce, beef broth, and uncooked pasta. Stir well to confirm the pasta is fully coated.
4. Add Cheese Layers: Drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the pasta mixture. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. Finish with Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted.
7. Serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, turn off the crockpot. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Extra Tips:

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the ground beef mixture. You can also experiment with different types of pasta or cheese to suit your taste preferences.

If you find the sauce too thick towards the end of cooking, simply stir in a bit more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to confirm it’s just right.

Enjoy your Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Flavorful Beef and Bean Casserole

When the weather calls for comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a hearty casserole to satisfy your cravings. This Flavorful Beef and Bean Casserole is a perfect dish to prepare in your crockpot, allowing the ingredients to meld together into a deliciously robust and savory meal. The combination of ground beef, beans, and a medley of spices creates a warm and inviting dish that will become a family favorite.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends when you want something filling but don’t have time to stand over the stove. Designed for 4-6 servings, this casserole combines the protein-packed goodness of beef and beans with the convenience of a slow cooker.

The sauce, spiced with chili powder and enhanced with the sweetness of tomatoes, adds depth to the dish, making each bite a burst of flavor. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread or a side salad, this casserole is sure to delight everyone at your dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
2. Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Transfer the beef mixture to your crockpot. Add in the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, and tomato sauce.
4. Season the Casserole: Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
5. Cook on Low Heat: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Add Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover and let the cheese melt completely.
7. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with your choice of side dish.

Extra Tips:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider browning the beef in a bit of olive oil before adding the onions and garlic. This can enhance the dish’s depth and give it a richer taste.

If you prefer a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the mix. Remember that the longer the casserole cooks in the crockpot, the more developed the flavors will be.

Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving, as the beans can absorb some of the saltiness during the cooking process. Enjoy this dish with a dollop of sour cream or a splash of hot sauce for an added kick.

Quick Beef and Potato Hash

In addition to its delicious taste, this Quick Beef and Potato Hash is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few minutes of prep time in the morning, you can set your crockpot and let it work its magic throughout the day. By the time dinner rolls around, you’ll have a warm and inviting meal ready to serve.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering of friends.

Ingredients (serving size 4-6):

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
2. Prepare Vegetables: While the beef is cooking, chop the onion, bell pepper, and potatoes into small, even pieces to guarantee they cook evenly. Mince the garlic.
3. Assemble in the Crockpot: Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, and frozen peas to the crockpot with the ground beef. Stir to combine.
4. Season the Mixture: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme over the mixture. Stir everything together to guarantee even distribution of the spices.
5. Cook the Hash: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The dish is ready when the potatoes are tender and all ingredients are well cooked.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, give the hash a good stir to mix all flavors before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary before plating.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor, you can add a splash of soy sauce or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

If you prefer a more colorful dish, try using a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or corn for extra sweetness.

Finally, if you like a crispy edge, transfer a portion of the hash to a skillet after cooking and sauté over medium-high heat for a few minutes before serving.

Tender Sloppy Joes

Tender Sloppy Joes are a classic comfort food that can be effortlessly made in a crockpot, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. This dish combines the savory flavors of ground beef with a tangy-sweet sauce and soft buns, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a tender and juicy filling that’s perfect for piling onto toasted buns. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it a perfect option for a family dinner or a small gathering.

By preparing the dish in a crockpot, you can enjoy the convenience of hands-off cooking, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply unwind while your meal simmers to perfection. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Tender Sloppy Joes are bound to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4-6 hamburger buns

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preparation: Begin by gathering and prepping all your ingredients. Chop the onion and green bell pepper, and mince the garlic. This will help streamline the cooking process.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon to guarantee even cooking. This step is necessary to render out excess fat and enhance the flavor of the beef.
3. Transfer to Crockpot: Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat. Transfer the cooked ground beef to the crockpot.
4. Add Vegetables and Ingredients: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the crockpot with the ground beef. Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Slow Cook: Set the crockpot to low and cook for 4-6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully and guarantees the beef becomes tender.
6. Prepare Buns: About 10 minutes before serving, lightly toast the hamburger buns. This will add a nice texture contrast to the tender filling.
7. Assemble and Serve: Once the Sloppy Joes have finished cooking, give the mixture a good stir and taste for seasoning adjustments. Spoon the mixture onto the toasted buns and serve immediately.

Extra Tips:

When making Tender Sloppy Joes, feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the mix.

You can also incorporate additional vegetables like diced carrots or celery for extra nutrition. If you find the mixture too thick, add a splash of beef broth to reach your desired consistency.

Finally, for an extra touch, consider serving with pickles or coleslaw on the side to complement the flavors of the dish.