Ground beef is such a versatile ingredient, perfect for those picky eaters in your life.
From comforting meatloaf to messy BBQ beef sloppy joes, there’s something for everyone.
Cheesy beef stuffed shells and savory tacos add a delicious twist to any meal.
And let’s not forget about a warm, hearty casserole on those chilly nights!
I’ve gathered 12 amazing ground beef recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Classic Homemade Meatloaf

Classic Homemade Meatloaf is a traditional dish that’s loved by many. The tender, juicy meatloaf packed with flavors can be a hit among the picky eaters. This recipe is simple to prepare with minimal ingredients and requires basic cooking skills. The savory taste of the meatloaf, coupled with the tangy and sweet glaze on top, can make your family look forward to dinner.
The best part about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit the taste buds of your picky eaters. Plus, leftovers can be turned into delicious sandwiches the next day. So, let’s get started with this comforting and satisfying Classic Homemade Meatloaf recipe that can serve 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of ground beef
- 1 cup of bread crumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup of milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of mustard
- 1/3 cup of ketchup
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This will guarantee that the meatloaf cooks evenly throughout.
- Combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, beaten egg, milk, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix these ingredients until they’re well combined. Don’t overmix as it can result in a dense meatloaf.
- Once the ingredients are mixed together, shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, mustard, and ketchup to make the glaze. Stir these ingredients until they form a smooth mixture.
- Pour the glaze over the meatloaf, making sure it’s evenly coated.
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, making it moist and flavorful.
Extra Tips: Always use lean ground beef for this recipe to avoid a greasy meatloaf. For a healthier version, you can use ground turkey instead. If you have picky eaters who dislike onions, you can substitute it with onion powder.
Remember to keep an eye on the meatloaf as it bakes to prevent the glaze from burning. Enjoy your Classic Homemade Meatloaf with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tangy BBQ Beef Sloppy Joes

Serving a delicious and exciting meal that picky eaters will enjoy can often feel like a culinary challenge. However, the tangy BBQ Beef Sloppy Joes is a delightful dish that creatively combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the tangy zest of barbecue sauce.
It’s a great way to introduce more complex flavors to a picky eater’s palette while still keeping within their comfort zone. This recipe is easy to follow and quick to prepare, making it the perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner. It yields 4-6 servings, which is ideal for a small family.
Ingredients needed for this recipe include:
- 1.5 pounds of ground beef
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 of a large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 hamburger buns
- Pickles and coleslaw for garnish (optional)
To prepare the Tangy BBQ Beef Sloppy Joes, follow the steps below:
- In a large frying pan or skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Make sure to break it up into small pieces for even cooking. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- While the beef is browning, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Once done, set them aside.
- When the beef is fully browned and cooked through, drain off any excess fat and return the pan to the heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan with the ground beef. Cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
- Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Once the mixture is thoroughly heated and the flavors are well combined, scoop generous amounts onto the hamburger buns. Garnish with pickles and coleslaw if desired.
Cooking the Tangy BBQ Beef Sloppy Joes is a fun and engaging process that can even involve the picky eaters in your family. Encouraging them to participate in the preparation process can boost their interest in trying out the finished product.
Remember to adjust the seasoning according to your family’s preference. If your picky eaters aren’t fans of spicy or tangy flavors, you can reduce the amount of BBQ sauce or vinegar. The beauty of this dish is its flexibility, allowing you to tailor it to suit your family’s taste buds.
Enjoy the journey of creating this flavorful and enticing dish!
Cheesy Beef Stuffed Shells

Cheesy Beef Stuffed Shells is a delightful dish that’s perfect for those picky eaters who love a hearty, meaty, and cheesy meal. The dish involves jumbo pasta shells filled with a blend of ground beef, ricotta cheese, and Italian herbs, topped with a copious amount of melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. This dish not only looks appetizing but also tastes incredible, with the robust flavors of the beef blending perfectly with the creamy cheeses.
This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it a great option for busy weeknight dinners. The ground beef is cooked with onion and garlic for added flavor, while the pasta shells are cooked until just al dente, so they hold their shape when stuffed. The result is a satisfying, flavorful dish that will please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
- 24 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh parsley, for garnishing
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cook the pasta shells in boiling salted water for about 9 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 8 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture, and arrange them in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
When making your Cheesy Beef Stuffed Shells, be sure not to overcook the pasta shells, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
Also, feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the beef mixture for added nutrients.
And remember, the key to a great pasta dish is in the quality of the ingredients – so use a good quality pasta, ground beef, and cheese for the best results. Enjoy!
Savory Ground Beef Tacos

Savory Ground Beef Tacos are a perfect choice for picky eaters. The dish is versatile, allowing you to adjust the flavors and ingredients based on personal preference, while the familiar and comforting nature of tacos can be appealing to even the most selective taste buds.
Additionally, the process of building your own taco encourages interaction and personalization, making mealtime more enjoyable.
The following recipe showcases a simple yet flavorful ground beef filling, combined with a variety of toppings that provide flexibility for picky eaters. Whether you choose to stick to the basics with cheese and lettuce, or venture into more adventurous territory with pico de gallo or guacamole, these Savory Ground Beef Tacos are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
- 12 small flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir well and continue to cook until the onions are softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the ground beef mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Add the water to the skillet. Stir well, ensuring that the seasoning is fully dissolved and evenly coating the beef. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- While the beef is simmering, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat or directly over a gas flame until they’re soft and pliable.
- To assemble the tacos, place a spoonful of the ground beef mixture on a tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream, and a spoonful of salsa. Add chopped cilantro if desired. Fold the tortilla in half to form the taco.
Cooking these Savory Ground Beef Tacos is a fun and interactive process that can involve the whole family.
Feel free to adjust the toppings based on what your picky eaters prefer. You can also experiment with different types of tortillas, such as corn or whole wheat, for added variety.
Remember that the secret to a great taco lies in the balance of flavors and textures, so encourage the picky eaters to try a bit of everything for the best experience.
Hearty Beef and Rice Casserole

Finding meals that please even the pickiest eaters can be a major challenge for any home cook. If you’re dealing with fussy eaters who turn up their noses at anything remotely adventurous, you’ll be relieved to know that there are simple, delicious recipes out there that can satisfy their taste buds. One such dish is the Hearty Beef and Rice Casserole. It’s a comfort food classic that combines flavorful ground beef with creamy rice and a blend of delicious vegetables.
The Hearty Beef and Rice Casserole is a dish that’s hard to resist. It’s versatile enough to serve at a weeknight dinner, but flavorful enough to impress at a dinner party. It’s got a satisfying meaty flavor, creamy rice texture, and a burst of veggie goodness. This dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family, even the pickiest of eaters.
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to prepare this dish for a serving size of 4-6 people:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 cup of shredded cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Follow these steps to create this delicious dish:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will guarantee that your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Make sure to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onions are translucent and aromatic. This will add a depth of flavor to your dish.
- Stir in the uncooked white rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and mixed vegetables. Season with salt and pepper and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
When preparing this Hearty Beef and Rice Casserole, keep in mind that using lean ground beef will keep this dish from becoming too greasy. You can also switch up the vegetables based on what your picky eaters prefer. For a vegetarian alternative, consider substituting the ground beef with a plant-based substitute. This recipe is flexible and adaptable, making it a perfect solution for those tricky meal times.
Delicious Beef Lasagna Rolls

Introducing a creative twist on an Italian classic, the Delicious Beef Lasagna Rolls are sure to be a hit with your picky eaters. This recipe takes the familiar flavors of traditional lasagna and wraps them up in individual servings, making them a fun and appealing meal for both kids and adults. The use of ground beef adds a hearty depth to the meal, while the combination of cheeses offers a creamy and delectable finish.
Whether you’re trying to introduce a new dish to your picky eater or simply want a unique take on a family favorite, these lasagna rolls are the perfect choice.
Moreover, these lasagna rolls are quite simple to prepare and don’t require any special cooking skills. They can be prepared ahead of time, making them a great option for busy weeknights. You can also adjust the ingredients to your family’s preferences, making it an adaptable recipe. The following recipe is designed for a serving size of 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
- 1 egg, beaten
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by cooking lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Once done, drain and lay the noodles flat on a clean dish towel.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is thoroughly cooked. Drain off the excess fat.
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, basil, and salt into the beef mixture. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, and egg until well combined.
- Spread about 3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture on each noodle. Top with about 1/3 cup of the beef mixture, then sprinkle with 1/3 cup mozzarella cheese.
- Roll up each noodle tightly, then place seam side down in an ungreased 13×9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish.
- Pour the remaining beef sauce over the rolls and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Some extra tips to remember when cooking this dish are to ascertain the lasagna noodles are fully cooked before rolling them up; undercooked noodles may break or tear.
Also, you can freeze these rolls for later use. Just cool completely after baking, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or container. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Delectable Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Understanding the needs of picky eaters can be a challenge, especially when it comes to preparing a meal that everyone will enjoy. However, the hearty and comforting Beef Shepherd’s Pie could be your solution. This classic dish, a staple in British cuisine, is a great way to introduce ground beef to picky eaters. With its rich, meaty filling and creamy mashed potato topping, it’s sure to be a hit with both adults and children alike.
Made with simple ingredients and easy to customize to your family’s specific tastes, this Beef Shepherd’s Pie recipe is an excellent choice for dinner. Beyond its delicious taste, this dish can also be prepared in advance, making it perfect for those busy weekdays. Let’s plunge into this delectable recipe designed to serve 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds of ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of frozen peas
- 1 cup of beef broth
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onions, carrots, and minced garlic. Cook these until they’re softened, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Return the ground beef to the skillet, adding the frozen peas, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the broth has reduced slightly.
- While the beef mixture is simmering, prepare the mashed potatoes. Boil the potatoes until they’re tender, then drain and return them to the pot.
- Add the milk and butter to the potatoes and mash until they’re smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish and spread the mashed potatoes on top. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before serving.
When making this dish, remember that it can easily be adjusted to suit your family’s tastes. If your picky eaters aren’t fans of peas or carrots, feel free to substitute with other vegetables they prefer, like corn or bell peppers.
Also, to avoid a dry shepherd’s pie, make sure your beef mixture is moist before transferring it to the baking dish. Finally, for an extra creamy and rich mashed potato topping, you can add a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the potatoes when mashing. Enjoy your cooking!
Flavorful Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Introducing a family-friendly, easy-to-make recipe – Flavorful Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry. This dish is perfect for picky eaters as it packs in ground beef and a variety of vegetables, all coated in a savory and slightly sweet sauce. The beef is cooked until juicy and tender, while the vegetables maintain a slight crunch, providing a delightful contrast of textures. The sauce ties everything together, making every bite a flavor-packed experience.
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to add in or swap out vegetables according to your family’s preference. The ground beef can be substituted with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option. Serve this stir-fry with a side of steamed rice or noodles to complete the meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, sliced thinly
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of broccoli, cut into small florets
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the sauce:
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of honey
Instructions:
- Start by preparing your vegetables: thinly slice your bell peppers, onion, and carrot, and cut your broccoli into small florets.
- In a small bowl, mix together the ingredients for the sauce: soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, water, and honey. Set aside.
- Heat your vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned and no longer pink. Break up any large chunks with your spatula. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the cooked beef from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add your sliced vegetables and minced garlic. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
- Return the cooked beef to the pan with the vegetables.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables, stirring well to combine. Reduce heat to medium and let the stir-fry simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce has thickened.
- Serve hot with a side of steamed rice or noodles.
Extra Tips:
When cooking this dish, it’s important to cut the vegetables thinly so they cook quickly and evenly. Also, don’t be tempted to overcook your vegetables; you want them to maintain a bit of crunch to contrast with the tender beef.
If you’re using a different type of meat, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Finally, you can make this dish spicier by adding some crushed red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chilies to the stir-fry.
Mouth-Watering Beef Nachos Supreme

When it comes to creating a meal that will please even the pickiest of eaters, nachos are a surefire hit. The dish we’re presenting today, Beef Nachos Supreme, is a hearty, flavorful treat loaded with savory ground beef, melted cheese, and a variety of delightful toppings.
It’s not only a crowd-pleaser, but also quick and easy to prepare, making it the perfect choice for a fun family dinner or a casual get-together. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add in extra toppings to suit your family’s preferences.
Even better, it’s a great way to sneak in a few vegetables without anyone noticing. Let’s get into the recipe that will serve 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 package of taco seasoning
- 1 cup of water
- 1 large bag of tortilla chips
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup of sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup of sliced jalapenos (optional)
- 1/2 cup of diced green onions
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1/2 cup of guacamole
- 1/2 cup of salsa
Instructions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it’s fully browned. Be sure to break up the meat into small crumbles as it cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, add in the taco seasoning and water. Stir the mixture well and let it simmer until the liquid has reduced, about 5 minutes.
- Lay out the tortilla chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
- Evenly distribute the seasoned beef over the chips, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Remove the nachos from the oven and top them with diced tomatoes, black olives, jalapenos (if using), and green onions.
- Finish by dolloping sour cream, guacamole, and salsa on top. Serve immediately while still warm.
A few extra tips to keep in mind when preparing this dish: Don’t skimp on the cheese! The melted cheese is what holds the nachos together and gives them that irresistible, gooey texture.
Also, if you want to make this dish a bit healthier, consider substituting the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Finally, serve it straight from the oven to guarantee that your nachos are crispy and the cheese is perfectly melted. Enjoy your Beef Nachos Supreme!
Quick & Easy Beef Spaghetti Bolognese

Beef Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that’s loved by many around the world. This dish is perfect for picky eaters as it combines the familiar taste of beef with the savory and tangy flavor of tomato sauce. The addition of vegetables not only provides necessary nutrition but also adds an appealing color to the dish. This recipe is quick and easy, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.
The following recipe is designed for a serving size of 4-6 people. The cooking process is simple and straightforward, providing an opportunity for novice cooks to try their hand at an international dish. The ingredients are common and easily available in local grocery stores.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound of spaghetti
- Grated parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
- In a large pot or dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté the vegetables until they’re softened and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste into the pot. Season with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir it occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Once the sauce is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the spaghetti in serving bowls, top with a generous amount of Bolognese sauce and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.
Cooking this dish is a rewarding experience, even for the most picky eaters. The key is to let the sauce simmer for enough time for the flavors to blend together. If the sauce becomes too thick during cooking, add a small amount of water or beef broth to thin it out.
Also, don’t forget to cook the pasta al dente – it should still have a firm bite to it. This dish is best served hot, so make sure to serve it immediately after cooking. Enjoy the rich, hearty flavors of this beef spaghetti bolognese!
Succulent Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers

Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers are a flavorful and satisfying dish that even the pickiest eater will enjoy. Packed with protein-rich beef, a variety of vegetables, and flavorful herbs and spices, these stuffed peppers are a balanced meal in one colorful package. The sweet bell peppers serve as an edible bowl, holding a hearty filling of ground beef, rice, and veggies, all baked to perfection. This is an excellent dish to introduce new flavors and textures to your picky eater‘s palate.
The best part about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to cater to your family’s taste. If your picky eater isn’t a fan of certain vegetables, feel free to swap them out for their favorites. You can also adjust the level of spiciness to suit their preference. Let’s get started on this simple, delicious, and customizable dish.
Ingredients:
- 4-6 large bell peppers
- 1 lb of ground beef
- 1 cup of cooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, shredded
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). As the oven is preheating, prepare the bell peppers by cutting off the tops and removing the seeds and membranes. Set them aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Be sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and shredded carrot to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
- Spoon the ground beef mixture into the prepared bell peppers, filling them up to the top. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it on top of each stuffed pepper.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
Extra Tips:
When choosing bell peppers for this recipe, opt for ones that are large and have a flat bottom so they can stand upright in the baking dish. If your peppers tend to tip over, slice a small portion off the bottom to create a flat base.
Don’t throw away the tops of the peppers; you can chop them up and add them to the beef mixture for extra flavor and crunch. If your picky eater is sensitive to the taste of bell peppers, you can blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes before stuffing; this will soften the peppers and mellow their flavor.
Simple One-Pot Beef Chili

Introducing a flavorful and warming dish, the Simple One-Pot Beef Chili is a perfect recipe for picky eaters who crave for a rich and satisfying meal. This one-pot wonder is loaded with ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, creating a hearty dish that’s both comforting and delicious.
Its simplicity lies not just in the use of a single pot, but also in the straightforward process of chucking the ingredients in and letting them simmer to perfection.
Not only is this beef chili recipe a crowd-pleaser, it’s also a time-saver. It requires minimal prep and uses common pantry ingredients, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, so feel free to make a bigger batch and enjoy it for days.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Shredded cheese and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Make sure to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until they become fragrant and the onions turn translucent.
- Return the cooked beef to the pot. Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine the spices with the beef.
- Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the chili thickens to your desired consistency.
- Once done, serve the chili hot with a sprinkle of shredded cheese and chopped green onions on top.
This Simple One-Pot Beef Chili is an incredibly versatile dish. You can easily adjust the ingredients according to your preference. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or even a diced jalapeno.
If you prefer a meatier chili, increase the amount of ground beef. Remember to taste and adjust the seasonings as it cooks to guarantee a perfectly balanced dish.
Additionally, you can serve this chili with cornbread or rice, or use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. Enjoy the endless possibilities with this hearty, flavorful chili.