14 Ground Beef Recipes Kids Will Love

If you’re on the hunt for delicious and kid-approved meals, you’ve come to the right place.

I’ve rounded up 14 irresistible ground beef recipes that are sure to make your little ones smile.

From the comforting classics like Spaghetti Bolognese and Beef Lasagna to fun favorites like Beef Tacos and Mini Meatloaf Muffins, there’s something for everyone.

Let’s get ready to create some magical moments in the kitchen together!

Easy Spaghetti Bolognese

Easy Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that’s not only delicious but also kid-friendly. This dish is a great way to introduce your little ones to different types of global cuisine. The combination of savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and hearty spaghetti makes this dish a comforting and filling meal.

Additionally, this recipe is simple and easy to follow, making it ideal for busy weeknights. One of the best things about Spaghetti Bolognese is that you can customize it to suit your family’s taste. You can adjust the seasoning, add more vegetables or cheese, or even switch the type of pasta. This versatility means that you can make this dish over and over again without your kids getting bored.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stick, finely chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) of tomato paste
• 1/4 cup of red wine (optional)
• 1 tsp of dried basil
• 1 tsp of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb of spaghetti
• Grated parmesan cheese for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery over medium heat until they’re softened. This process should take about 5 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned and no pink remains. Remember to break it up into small chunks as it cooks.
3. Once the beef is cooked, add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
5. While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions.
6. Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot.
7. Pour the Bolognese sauce over the spaghetti and toss until the pasta is well coated.
8. Serve the Spaghetti Bolognese with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese on top.

Extra Tips:

When cooking the ground beef, try to break it up into as small pieces as possible. This will guarantee that there’s enough meat in every bite of the dish. The smaller the chunks, the more evenly the meat will distribute throughout the sauce.

Also, if you want to add more flavor to your dish, consider using a splash of red wine in the sauce. It adds a rich depth of flavor that complements the beef and tomatoes perfectly. However, remember to let the sauce simmer for long enough to cook off the alcohol, making it kid-friendly.

Cheesy Beef Lasagna

Cheesy Beef Lasagna is a classic Italian dish that has become a beloved favorite around the world, especially among kids. It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor – a trifecta that’s bound to win over even the pickiest eaters. This recipe involves layering lasagna noodles with a savory ground beef mixture, a creamy cheese blend, and rich tomato sauce, then baking it all together until it’s bubbly and delicious.

One of the beauties of this dish is that you can prepare it ahead of time and bake it just before dinner, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. With a side of garlic bread and a green salad, this cheesy beef lasagna makes a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 ounces) of tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
• 9 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 15 ounces of ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes.
4. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and egg until well blended.
5. Begin layering your lasagna in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Start with a layer of the beef mixture, followed by a layer of lasagna noodles, then a layer of the ricotta mixture, and finally a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of mozzarella and a sprinkling of Parmesan.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Extra Tips:

When assembling the lasagna, make sure each ingredient is spread evenly across the noodles to guarantee every bite is flavorful.

Also, let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes after baking before you slice it. This allows the cheese to set and makes it easier to serve.

If you wish, you can also add some veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to the beef mixture to sneak in some extra nutrition.

Mouth-Watering Beef Tacos

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a deliciously seasoned beef taco. Whether it’s the crunch of the shell, the flavorful beef, or the array of fresh toppings, it’s a meal that’s always a hit with the kids.

This Ground Beef Taco recipe is perfect for a family meal, as it’s straightforward to prepare, and children can get involved in assembling their own tacos. It’s a great way to introduce your kids to cooking and also encourage them to try out different flavors and textures.

The secret to this recipe lies in the homemade seasoning, which is a blend of common pantry spices. The seasoned ground beef is rich and satisfying, making it a perfect filling for tacos. Combined with a variety of fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and avocado, these tacos aren’t just tasty, but also wholesome and balanced.

The recipe below serves 4-6 people and is sure to become a favorite in your family.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup water
• 12 hard taco shells
• 2 cups shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup diced avocado
• Sour cream and salsa for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s well browned and crumbled. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir the spices into the ground beef until it’s well coated.
3. Pour in the water and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the water has evaporated and the beef is well seasoned.
4. While the beef is cooking, prepare your toppings. Shred the lettuce, dice the tomatoes and avocado, and shred the cheese if it’s not already pre-shredded.
5. When the beef is ready, spoon it into the taco shells. Top with the lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and avocado. Add a dollop of sour cream and salsa if desired.
6. Serve the tacos immediately while the shells are still crunchy and the beef is warm.

Extra Tips:

When cooking the ground beef, be sure to break it up into small pieces as it browns. This guarantees that the beef is evenly cooked and absorbs the spices well.

Feel free to customize the taco toppings based on your family’s preferences. For example, you could add black olives, corn, or even some pickled jalapenos for a little heat. Just remember to have fun with it and let your kids be creative in putting together their own tacos.

Cheddar Beef Casserole

Cheddar Beef Casserole is a fun and delicious dish that your kids will love. The delightful combination of ground beef, cheddar cheese, and pasta creates a hearty meal that will leave your little ones asking for more.

It’s also a great opportunity to introduce your kids to the joys of cooking, as they can help you with some of the simpler tasks, like grating the cheese or stirring the ingredients together.

This recipe isn’t only tasty, but it’s also quite healthy. Ground beef is a fantastic source of protein, and when paired with whole wheat pasta and a generous amount of vegetables, it provides a well-rounded meal.

The cheddar cheese adds a delightful creaminess to the dish, while also contributing to the protein content. Now, let’s get started with the recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb of ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of chopped carrots
• 1 cup of chopped bell peppers
• 2 cups of whole wheat pasta
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by pre-heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it’s browned. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the carrots and bell peppers to the skillet and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
5. While the beef and vegetables are cooking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. When it’s done, drain it and set it aside.
6. Once the beef and vegetables are ready, add the tomato sauce to the skillet and stir everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add the cooked pasta and half of the shredded cheese to the skillet and mix everything together.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
9. Put the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

When making this Cheddar Beef Casserole, you can get creative with the vegetables you use. Feel free to add in anything you have on hand, like zucchini, mushrooms, or peas.

You can also experiment with different types of cheese if you want. Just remember to always supervise your kids if they’re helping in the kitchen and most importantly, have fun with it!

Hearty Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic, hearty meal that’s loved by kids and adults alike. This version, using ground beef, is both affordable and easy to make, making it a go-to for busy weeknight dinners. The rich, meaty filling paired with creamy mashed potatoes will have your little ones asking for seconds.

The beauty of this dish is its versatility. While this recipe calls for traditional ingredients such as peas and carrots, you can easily substitute them with any other vegetables your children prefer. This is also a great way to sneak in some veggies into your child’s diet. So let’s get started on this crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1/2 cup milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain off the fat.
3. Add the onions, carrots, and garlic to the skillet, cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well. This will help thicken the sauce.
5. Slowly add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Stir in the peas, season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
7. In a large pot, boil the potatoes until tender. Drain and return to the pot.
8. Add the milk, butter, and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the potatoes. Mash until smooth, season with salt and pepper.
9. Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish, then spread the mashed potatoes on top.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.

Extra Tips:

The key to a good Shepherd’s Pie is to get the right consistency for the meat filling. It should be thick, not runny.

Also, for an extra touch, you can sprinkle some additional cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking. This will give a delicious cheesy crust on top.

Finally, remember to let the pie rest for a bit after taking it out of the oven. This will make it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy this hearty and comforting dish!

Ground Beef Sloppy Joes

Ground beef sloppy joes are a classic American dish that’s perfect for kids. This hearty meal is both satisfying and nutritious, making it a great option for busy families looking for quick and easy dinner solutions. The combination of ground beef, bell peppers, and a tangy-sweet tomato-based sauce served on a warm bun is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can add in your favorite veggies, adjust the seasonings to your liking, and even substitute the beef with turkey or chicken for a healthier twist. The sauce is typically slightly sweet and tangy, but feel free to adjust the ingredients to find your perfect balance.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs of ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1.5 cups of ketchup
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons of mustard
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4-6 hamburger buns

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure to break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks.
2. Once the beef is cooked through, drain the fat from the skillet and set the beef aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Saute these until they’re softened.
4. Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet with the vegetables.
5. In a bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. This will be your sloppy joe sauce.
6. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
7. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve the sloppy joe mixture on warm hamburger buns.

A few tips to remember when cooking this dish include using lean ground beef to cut down on the fat content. If your kids aren’t fans of bell peppers, you can easily substitute them with other vegetables like carrots or zucchini.

And remember, the longer you let the sloppy joe mixture simmer, the more flavorful it will become. Enjoy this delicious and kid-friendly dish!

Delicious Beef Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are a classic family meal and a great way to sneak in some vegetables for your little ones. This recipe for Beef Stuffed Peppers is a flavorful blend of ground beef, rice, onions, tomatoes, and a mix of spices all encased in a sweet bell pepper. Not only is this dish nutritious, but the vibrant colors of the peppers also make it visually appealing for kids.

The great thing about this recipe is that it’s versatile. You can switch up the grains, using quinoa or couscous instead of rice, or swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These stuffed peppers are also perfect for meal prep as they can be made ahead and reheated when needed.

Ingredients:

• 4-6 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers in a baking dish and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until they become transparent.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with your spoon as it cooks.
5. Add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
6. Spoon the beef and rice mixture into the bell peppers, filling them up to the top.
7. Sprinkle the tops of the stuffed peppers with the shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

When cooking this dish, feel free to adjust the spices to suit your family’s preferences. You can also add some heat with a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

Additionally, the stuffed peppers can be frozen before or after baking. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven. This Beef Stuffed Peppers recipe will surely be a hit with the kids, making it a perfect addition to your family meal rotation.

Ground Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Ground Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry isn’t only a nutritious and balanced meal for kids, but it’s also a delicious one that they’ll absolutely love. This recipe is a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your child’s diet, and the vibrant colors make the dish appealing to the eye. The ground beef adds a great source of protein, making this a well-rounded meal for your little ones.

Cooking this dish is also a breeze. It involves stir-frying the ground beef and vegetables, which is a relatively quick process that retains most of the nutrients in the vegetables. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it a perfect dinner option for the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb of ground beef
• 2 cups of broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
• 1/4 cup of water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by preparing your vegetables. Wash the broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and onion thoroughly, then slice them into bite-sized pieces. Peel and mince the garlic.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir for a minute until it releases its aroma.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until it’s no longer pink.
4. Add the sliced onion, bell peppers, and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry the mixture until the vegetables are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, cornstarch, and water until well combined. This will act as the sauce for the stir-fry.
6. Pour the sauce over the stir-fried beef and vegetables. Add the broccoli florets and continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and the sauce has thickened.
7. Season the stir-fry with salt and pepper to taste. Serve it hot and enjoy!

Extra Tips:

When cooking the stir-fry, it’s important to keep the heat at medium. Too high heat can burn the garlic and make the vegetables too soft, losing their crunch.

Feel free to substitute or add any other vegetables your children love. Making this recipe your own and catering to your child’s preferences will guarantee it becomes a family favorite.

Fun Mini Beef Meatloaf Muffins

Are you looking for a fun, kid-friendly dish that packs in the protein? Search no more than Fun Mini Beef Meatloaf Muffins. These bite-sized meatloaves are perfect for little hands and are sure to be a hit at your family dinner table. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish is also a great way to get your kids involved in the kitchen.

The Fun Mini Beef Meatloaf Muffins are packed with flavor and are a healthier spin on traditional meatloaf. This recipe uses ground beef, but you could also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The best part? You can sneak in some veggies, and your kids won’t even notice!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb of ground beef
• 1 cup of bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup of ketchup
• 1/4 cup of milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup of finely diced onions
• 1/2 cup of finely diced bell peppers
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
• 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for topping
• Cooking spray for muffin tin

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a muffin tin with cooking spray. This will prevent the meatloaf muffins from sticking to the pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, ketchup, milk, egg, onions, bell peppers, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined but be careful not to overmix as it can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Divide the meatloaf mixture evenly among the muffin tins, pressing down slightly to compact them. They should be about 3/4 full.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf muffins are cooked through and no longer pink in the middle.
5. Sprinkle the tops of each meatloaf muffin with shredded cheddar cheese and return them to the oven for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Let the meatloaf muffins cool for a few minutes in the tin before removing them. Serve warm.

When cooking these Fun Mini Beef Meatloaf Muffins, remember that the vegetables should be finely chopped so they blend well into the meatloaf mixture and aren’t noticeable to the kids.

Also, you can customize this recipe by adding other types of vegetables or even some spices for extra flavor. Just remember to keep the flavors mild to keep it kid-friendly. Enjoy this fun and tasty twist on a classic dish!

Kid-Friendly Beef Nachos

When you’re looking to create a meal that’s both delicious and easy on the palate for your little ones, Kid-Friendly Beef Nachos is a great go-to choice. This dish is a delightful blend of crispy tortilla chips, seasoned ground beef, and oozy, melted cheese – a trio that’s sure to be a hit with kids of all ages. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also provides an opportunity to sneak in some veggies in a fun, appealing way.

Kid-Friendly Beef Nachos is an excellent choice for any meal, whether it’s lunch, dinner, or even an after school snack. It can also be a perfect appetizer when hosting a family gathering or a children’s party. This recipe is designed for a serving size of 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet of taco seasoning
• 1 bag of tortilla chips (13 oz)
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 cup of chopped green bell peppers
• 1/2 cup of sliced black olives
• Sour cream and guacamole for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink and fully browned.
3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked ground beef, stirring well to fully incorporate. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Spread the tortilla chips evenly across the prepared baking sheet.
5. Evenly distribute the seasoned ground beef over the tortilla chips.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the ground beef.
7. Distribute the chopped tomatoes, green bell peppers, and sliced black olives evenly over the cheese layer.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving with sour cream and guacamole on the side.

Tips: As a tip, you can substitute any fresh veggies your kids prefer in place of the tomatoes, bell peppers, and black olives. Additionally, using a lean cut of ground beef or even ground turkey can make this dish healthier.

Ground Beef Mac N’ Cheese

Ground Beef Mac N’ Cheese is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family meals. This comforting classic combines the satisfying flavors of ground beef and creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a meal that’s certain to please even the pickiest of eaters.

It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish, and it’s also great for potlucks or casual get-togethers.

This recipe is designed to feed 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family dinner. It’s easy to prepare and uses simple, kid-friendly ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The result is a rich, savory dish that’s loaded with cheesy, beefy goodness.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of lean ground beef
• 2 cups of elbow macaroni
• 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1/4 cup of butter
• 1/2 cup of diced onion
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. While the macaroni is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent.
4. Drain the excess fat from the skillet, then season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. In a separate pot, heat the milk and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted. Add the shredded cheese and stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni, beef mixture, and cheese sauce in a large baking dish, stirring well to guarantee everything is evenly mixed.
7. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Extra Tips:

When preparing Ground Beef Mac N’ Cheese, be sure to cook the macaroni until it’s just shy of al dente. This will guarantee it doesn’t become overcooked during the baking process.

Also, you can add more flavor by using different types of cheese in the sauce, such as Gouda or Monterey Jack. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well for the best results.

Enjoy this delightful dish with a side salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the rich, hearty flavors.

Quick Beef Quesadillas

Ground Beef Quesadillas are a delightful dish that you can easily prepare for your children. Quick to make, these quesadillas are filled with delicious ground beef, cheese, and a variety of vegetables, making them a balanced meal that your kids will love. Not only are these quesadillas tasty, but they’re also a great way to sneak in some veggies into your kid’s diet.

The best part is that they’re customizable; you can add or remove ingredients as per your child’s preference. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The cooking process is simple and the ingredients are readily available, making it a great choice for busy parents. With a serving size of 4-6, you can easily prepare this dish for the whole family or have leftovers for the next day.

Let’s get started on how to prepare these scrumptious ground beef quesadillas.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 6 Large Flour Tortillas
• 2 Cups Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1/2 Cup Chopped Bell Peppers
• 1/2 Cup Chopped Onions
• 1/2 Cup Chopped Tomatoes
• 1 Teaspoon Salt
• 1 Teaspoon Pepper
• 2 Tablespoons Cooking Oil
• Salsa and Sour Cream for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and season it with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until they’re softened, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Next, add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Take a large tortilla and spread a layer of the beef and vegetable mixture on one half. Top it with a handful of shredded cheese.
6. Fold the tortilla over the filled side to create a half-moon shape. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
7. In a clean skillet, cook the quesadillas over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve warm with salsa and sour cream.

While making these ground beef quesadillas, remember that you can adjust the type and amount of cheese based on your kid’s preference. Also, you can substitute the vegetables with your kid’s favorites.

To guarantee that the quesadilla doesn’t fall apart while cooking, make sure not to overfill it. Finally, always remember to supervise your children if they’re helping you in the kitchen to maintain safety. Enjoy this delicious, kid-friendly meal!

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is an easy, budget-friendly meal that kids love. Its simplicity is its charm, as it combines hearty ground beef, tender rice, and a blend of flavorful spices. This one-skillet dish can be ready in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Plus, it’s a customizable recipe that allows you to add vegetables or cheese for extra nutrition and flavor. This meal isn’t just delicious, but also nutritious. Ground beef is a great source of protein and iron, while rice provides carbohydrates for energy. Together, they make a balanced meal that keeps kids feeling full and satisfied.

This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 cup of uncooked rice
• 2 cups of beef broth
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped fresh parsley

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Once the beef is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until they’re softened.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Return the beef to the skillet and add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together so that the ingredients are well mixed.
5. Pour the beef broth into the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.
6. Once the rice is cooked, you can add optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped parsley before serving.

When cooking this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, it’s important to remember that the timing may vary depending on the type of rice you use. Regular long-grain rice usually takes around 20 minutes to cook, while brown rice may take a bit longer.

Be sure to check the rice towards the end of the cooking time to ascertain it’s done to your liking. If you find the skillet is becoming dry but the rice isn’t fully cooked, add a bit more broth or water and continue to simmer until the rice is tender.

Tasty Beef Enchiladas

Beef enchiladas are a great way to introduce kids to Mexican cuisine, a cuisine known for its vibrant flavors and diverse ingredients. This recipe simplifies the traditional enchilada, making it more accessible for young palates, but without compromising on the taste. The dish combines tender ground beef, melted cheese, and mild enchilada sauce, all wrapped up in soft tortillas.

It’s a perfect dish for a family dinner that kids will surely love. Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also packed with protein and other essential nutrients that are important for a child’s growth. It’s simple to prepare and versatile enough to be adapted according to your child’s preference.

So, let’s begin on this culinary journey to create a delightful Mexican meal that will make your kids’ mealtime exciting.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) red enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 8 soft flour tortillas (8 inch)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until aromatic.
4. Introduce the ground beef to the skillet. Season it with salt and pepper. Cook until beef is thoroughly browned, about 10 minutes.
5. After the beef is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and drain any excess fat.
6. Pour in half of the enchilada sauce and half of the cheese into the skillet, stir well to combine.
7. Spoon about one-eighth of the beef mixture down the center of each tortilla. Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-side down in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the filled tortillas and sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.

Extra cooking tips: To make the recipe even healthier, consider adding vegetables such as bell peppers or corn to the beef mixture. You can also substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

If your children aren’t fans of spicy food, make sure that you choose a mild enchilada sauce. Finally, remember to let the enchiladas cool down before serving to prevent burns. This dish is best served with a side of refried beans or rice. Enjoy this delightful and kid-friendly beef enchilada recipe.