Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes, making it a staple in many kitchens. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something more elaborate, there’s a ground beef recipe to meet your needs. With its rich flavor and ease of preparation, ground beef can be transformed into mouth-watering meals that are sure to please everyone.
From hearty soups to delicious burgers, ground beef recipes are both budget-friendly and satisfying. Explore these 25 ground beef recipes to discover new and delicious ways to enjoy this cooking staple. The possibilities are endless, ensuring you never run out of new ideas for dinner.
1) Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that everyone loves. It’s hearty and filled with rich flavors that come from combining fresh ingredients and allowing them to simmer and blend together.
To start, you’ll need onions, celery, and carrots. These veggies add a natural sweetness and depth to the sauce. Sauté them until they are tender.
Next, add ground beef. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces as it browns. This ensures the meat combines well with the sauce.
For a richer taste, pour in some red wine and let it evaporate. This step adds a layer of complexity to the flavor. At this point, you can also add some milk, which helps to make the sauce creamy.
The star of the dish is crushed tomatoes. Add them in and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.
While the sauce is cooking, boil your spaghetti until al dente. Make sure to reserve a bit of pasta water. This starchy water helps the sauce cling to the noodles better.
Finally, toss the pasta with the Bolognese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water. Serve it hot, preferably with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious Spaghetti Bolognese!
2) Classic Beef Tacos
Ground beef tacos are a timeless favorite that you’ll love. Start by heating oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Next, add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant. Be sure to stir often to avoid burning the garlic. Now, add ground beef to the skillet.
Break up the beef with a spoon and cook until it’s completely browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the beef is cooked, add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Stir well to coat the beef evenly with the spices. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together. If you’d like, you can add tomato paste and a bit of water to create a richer sauce.
Spoon the beef mixture into taco shells. Add your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, cheese, diced tomatoes, and sour cream. Enjoy your classic beef tacos with a side of salsa or guacamole for extra flavor.
3) Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort food that’s both tasty and easy to prepare. You start by heating oil in a deep pan and then adding ground beef. Cook this until it’s nicely browned.
Next, you’ll add chopped onions and minced garlic. Let them cook until the onions are translucent and starting to become golden brown. This step adds a lot of flavor to the dish.
Now, you can add sliced mushrooms. Let them cook for a few minutes until they soften. Mushrooms add a rich texture and earthy taste to the stroganoff.
Then, sprinkle flour over the beef mixture and stir it well. This helps to thicken the sauce. Slowly add beef broth while stirring, bringing the mixture to a boil and then reducing it to a simmer.
Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Let it cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
Serve the Ground Beef Stroganoff over egg noodles or mashed potatoes. The dish is creamy, savory, and perfect for a family dinner.
4) Cheeseburger Sliders
Cheeseburger sliders are small, tasty sandwiches that are perfect for any gathering. You can start by combining mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard in a small bowl. Spread this mixture on the cut sides of your rolls. Don’t forget to sprinkle half of the cheese on top.
Next, heat a skillet with some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and ground beef. Season the meat with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until the beef is fully done.
Press the beef mixture into a baking dish to form a patty and bake it for 15-20 minutes at 350°F. Arrange cheese slices on the bottom half of your rolls, then place the beef mixture on top.
Add more cheese and pickles if you like. Finally, cover with the top half of the rolls. Warm the sliders in the oven until the cheese melts. Enjoy these mini burgers with your favorite sides.
5) Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious way to enjoy ground beef. Start by preheating your oven to around 375°F. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside.
Brown the ground beef in a pan over medium heat. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings like basil and oregano to build flavor. You can also include vegetables like mushrooms, corn, celery, and onions.
Mix cooked rice with the beef and vegetables. This creates a hearty stuffing. Fill each bell pepper with this mixture. Some recipes mix in breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese for extra texture and taste.
Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and bake. You want the peppers to be slightly tender and the filling heated through, which takes about 20 minutes.
Enjoy your stuffed bell peppers as a main dish paired with a simple green salad or a side of crusty bread.
6) Beef Enchiladas
Beef enchiladas are a classic and easy-to-make dish. First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
Next, mix in taco seasoning and a bit of water. Let it simmer until the water is absorbed. Take tortillas and spoon the beef mixture down the center. Sprinkle some cheese on top.
Roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the top, covering all the tortillas. Sprinkle more cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes.
Once done, let the enchiladas cool slightly before serving. You can garnish with chopped cilantro, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños. Enjoy your delicious beef enchiladas!
7) Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting dish that combines ground beef with vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s perfect for a family meal.
Start by heating oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and cook for about 5 minutes until they are soft. Add ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned.
Season the mixture with parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Once the beef is cooked and seasoned, transfer it to a baking dish.
Prepare your mashed potatoes. You can use store-bought or make them from scratch by peeling, boiling, and mashing potatoes with butter and milk. Spread the mashed potatoes on top of the beef mixture in the baking dish.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. This usually takes about 30 minutes. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Shepherd’s Pie is versatile. You can add vegetables like carrots and peas for extra nutrients. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and easy to make with common kitchen ingredients.
8) Beef Chili
Beef chili is a classic comfort food that is hearty and flavorful. Begin by heating a large pot over medium-high heat and adding a bit of oil. Cook ground beef until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Next, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are soft. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
Now, it’s time to add the spices. Stir in chili powder, cumin, oregano, and a touch of paprika. These spices give the chili its rich, warm flavor.
After the spices are well mixed, add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Stir everything together.
For a traditional touch, add kidney beans and pinto beans. Let your chili simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend together.
Don’t forget to taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add a bit of salt and pepper to taste.
Serve your beef chili with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions. This dish is perfect for cold nights or anytime you crave something warm and filling.
9) Beef Quesadillas
Beef quesadillas are a quick and delicious meal you can make with simple ingredients. Start by browning ground beef in a skillet. Break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning for extra flavor.
Next, add finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. Mix in some tomato paste and let it cook for another minute to blend the flavors. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set it aside.
In another skillet, melt a little butter over medium heat. Lay a large tortilla flat in the pan. Sprinkle shredded cheese on one-half of the tortilla. Add the beef mixture on top of the cheese. If you like, you can also add a spoonful of salsa for extra zest.
Fold the tortilla in half and press it down gently with a spatula. Cook until the bottom is golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until crispy. Once done, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a minute.
Cut the quesadilla into three or four triangles and serve warm. These beef quesadillas make for a satisfying snack or meal anytime!
10) Beef and Bean Burritos
Beef and bean burritos are a delicious and easy meal. Start by cooking ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat and stir until it is browned and fragrant. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Warm refried beans in a saucepan until smooth and spreadable. Microwave flour tortillas for about 20 seconds to make them easier to roll. Spread a layer of refried beans onto each tortilla.
Add cooked ground beef on top of the beans. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beef. Optionally, you can add green chiles for an extra kick. Roll the tortillas tightly, folding in the sides as you go.
For an extra touch, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the burritos on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melted. You can serve the burritos with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
These burritos are great for quick dinners, and they can be frozen for later use. Simply wrap the burritos in foil before baking, and store them in the freezer. When ready to eat, bake them directly from the freezer. This meal is both tasty and convenient, perfect for busy nights.
11) Beef Lasagna
Beef lasagna is a classic dish that’s perfect for dinner. You’ll need lasagna noodles, ground beef, garlic, onion, tomato sauce, and a mix of cheeses.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil the lasagna noodles until they’re al dente, then drain and set them aside.
In a skillet, cook the ground beef with garlic and onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Stir in the tomato sauce and your favorite seasonings like oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and parmesan. Begin layering in a 9×13 baking dish starting with a little meat sauce, then noodles, more meat sauce, and the cheese mixture. Repeat until the dish is full.
Top the final layer with more mozzarella and parmesan. Cover with foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your homemade beef lasagna!
12) Beef Meatloaf
Beef meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and delicious. You’ll need ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, and a few seasonings.
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onions, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, and eggs. Add salt, pepper, and any other spices you like.
Mix everything together with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
For extra flavor, you can spread a mixture of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar on top of the meatloaf before baking. This creates a tasty crust.
Bake for about 40-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Serve your meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, or any side dish you enjoy. It also makes great leftovers for sandwiches the next day.
13) Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a simple and delicious dish. It’s great for busy weeknights. You’ll love how quickly it comes together.
Start by heating oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add broccoli. Cook until tender-crisp and slightly blackened in spots.
Set the broccoli aside, and in the same pan, brown the ground beef. Cook until no longer pink. Add your favorite seasonings like garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
While the beef cooks, mix together a sauce with soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Pour the sauce into the pan once the beef is ready. Stir well to coat the meat.
Return the broccoli to the pan and mix everything together. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens slightly. Serve this stir-fry over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a hearty and flavorful option. It’s a perfect way to get both protein and veggies in one dish. Your family will ask for it again and again.
14) Beef and Cabbage Roll-Ups
Beef and cabbage roll-ups are a tasty way to use ground beef. Start by removing the core from a head of cabbage and blanching the leaves in boiling salted water. This will make them soft and easy to roll.
Combine ground beef, chopped onion, cooked rice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well. Spoon the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf and roll them up, tucking in the sides to keep the filling inside.
Place the rolls in a baking dish. Pour tomato sauce over them, enough to cover the rolls. You can also add a little water to the sauce for extra moisture. Cover the dish tightly with foil to keep the steam in while cooking.
Bake the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F for about an hour. The beef should be fully cooked and the cabbage tender. Serve the roll-ups hot, spooning more sauce over the top if desired.
This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner and can be made ahead of time and reheated. Enjoy your beef and cabbage roll-ups with a side of mashed potatoes or a simple salad.
15) Beef and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
For a savory and satisfying dish, try Beef and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms. Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F.
Prepare large Portobello mushroom caps by brushing them with oil and sprinkling them with kosher salt. Set them aside.
In a skillet, cook ground beef with an egg, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
Remove the stems from the mushroom caps and chop them finely. Add them to the beef mixture for extra flavor. Then, place the mushroom caps on a parchment-lined baking sheet, top side down.
Fill each mushroom cap with the beef mixture, and then sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.
Bake the stuffed mushrooms in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve these stuffed mushrooms as a delightful appetizer or a main dish. They are sure to impress with their rich flavors and satisfying texture.
16) Beef and Potato Casserole
Beef and Potato Casserole is a comforting dish that combines hearty ingredients.
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
Brown ground beef and chopped onions in a skillet over medium heat. Drain the excess grease.
Layer thin slices of potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish. Spread half the beef mixture over the potatoes.
Mix cream, garlic powder, pepper, and beef stock in a bowl. Pour half this mixture over the beef and potatoes.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cream mixture.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown.
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck.
17) Beef and Vegetable Skewers
Beef and vegetable skewers are a tasty and healthy grilling option. You can use a mix of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Cut the beef into 1.3-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
To get the best flavor, marinate the beef for at least 1 hour. You can use a simple marinade with oil, soy sauce, garlic, and herbs. If you marinate for up to 24 hours, it enhances the taste even more.
If you use wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated beef and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating for an even cook.
Grill the skewers over medium-high heat. Turn them occasionally to cook all sides evenly. Aim for about 10-15 minutes on the grill until the beef reaches your desired doneness.
Alternatively, you can bake them in the oven. Preheat to 350 degrees F. Place the skewers on a lined baking tray and bake for 10-13 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F for medium doneness.
Enjoy these skewers with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
18) Beef Nachos
Beef nachos are a favorite for parties and casual dinners. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes until it’s no longer pink. Break up big pieces with a spatula or meat chopper and drain any excess fat.
Layer tortilla chips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the cooked beef evenly over the chips. Add toppings like shredded cheese, jalapeño slices, and refried beans. Make sure to distribute everything evenly to get the best flavor in each bite.
Put the nachos in the oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn. Once done, remove from the oven.
Top the hot nachos with fresh ingredients like diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and chopped cilantro. You can also add sour cream and salsa for extra flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the nachos at their best.
Experiment with variations like adding black beans, using ground turkey instead of beef, or topping with leftover pulled pork. Adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your taste.
19) Beef Picadillo
Beef Picadillo is a delicious and versatile dish. It’s made with ground beef, onions, garlic, and a mix of spices. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, usually taking around 30 minutes.
In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic. Cook until the onions are tender.
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Make sure the meat is evenly browned.
Season the beef with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano. Some recipes also include chili powder or paprika for extra flavor.
Once the beef is cooked, you can add more ingredients. Common additions include chopped tomatoes, potatoes, and olives. These will add texture and richness to the Picadillo.
If the mixture looks dry, add a bit of water or broth. Let it simmer for a few minutes. This will blend all the flavors together.
Serve your Beef Picadillo with rice or tortillas. It’s a hearty meal that satisfies everyone at the table. Enjoy!
20) Beef and Cheese Taquitos
Beef and cheese taquitos are a delicious snack or meal option. Start by cooking ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spatula until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
Next, add taco seasoning to the beef. Mix well to coat the meat. Incorporate cream cheese, sour cream, and salsa. Stir until everything is melted and combined.
Use soft tortillas to make the taquitos. Spoon the beef mixture down the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beef.
Roll the tortillas tightly around the filling. Secure them with toothpicks if needed. You can either bake or fry them.
To bake, place the taquitos on a lined baking sheet. Lightly brush or spray them with cooking oil. Bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
If you prefer frying, heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the taquitos until they are golden brown on all sides.
Serve your taquitos hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
21) Beef and Egg Breakfast Burrito
Start by cooking ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Season it with salt, pepper, and any of your favorite spices.
In a separate bowl, beat eggs with a splash of water and some chopped cilantro. Pour the egg mixture into a skillet and scramble until cooked.
Mix the scrambled eggs into the cooked beef. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted.
Take a flour tortilla and place the beef and egg mixture in the center. Roll the tortilla tightly to form a burrito.
For an extra touch, you can wrap the burrito in foil and keep it warm in the oven or freeze it for later use.
Serve with salsa or hot sauce on the side. Enjoy your hearty breakfast!
22) Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a quarter-inch border to keep the filling from leaking.
In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Add chopped onions and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Mix in garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in cooked rice, chopped zucchini innards, and any desired spices or herbs like basil or parsley.
Fill each zucchini half with the beef and rice mixture, pressing it in firmly. Place the stuffed zucchini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with oil.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for about 30 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve hot, perhaps with a side salad for a complete, balanced meal. This dish is great for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
23) Beef Sloppy Joes
Beef Sloppy Joes are a classic, hearty sandwich that everyone enjoys. Start by heating oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Next, include chopped onions and bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables soften.
For the sauce, mix ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard, and water. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the beef and vegetables.
Let everything simmer for about 20-25 minutes. The sauce will thicken and blend with the beef.
Spoon the delicious mixture onto hamburger buns. Another option is serving it over bread or a baked potato.
24) Beef and Black Bean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Beef and black bean stuffed sweet potatoes are a hearty and nutritious meal. Start by baking sweet potatoes at 350°F for 55-65 minutes. While they bake, cook ground beef with chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender.
Add cooked black beans to the beef mixture. Season with cumin, chili powder, and salt. Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors. When the sweet potatoes are tender, cut them open and stuff them with the beef and black bean mixture.
Top with shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream. This dish is both filling and packed with proteins, vitamins, and fiber. Perfect for a nutritious dinner that feels indulgent.
25) Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Beef and spinach stuffed shells are a hearty and delicious dish perfect for a family dinner.
Start by cooking pasta shells in a large pot of salted, boiling water until they are al dente. Be sure to drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Drain any excess fat.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef mixture with ricotta, spinach, parmesan cheese, and some salt and pepper.
Stuff each shell with the beef and spinach mixture and place them in a baking dish with marinara sauce spread on the bottom.
Once all the shells are in the dish, cover them with the remaining marinara sauce and some shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until the cheese is melted and bubbly, around 25-30 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy these savory stuffed shells with your favorite side salad or garlic bread.
Health Benefits of Ground Beef
Ground beef offers numerous health benefits through its rich nutritional profile. Key advantages include its high protein content and essential minerals like iron.
Nutritional Value
Ground beef is packed with essential nutrients. A 3-ounce serving provides about 250 calories, around 20 grams of protein, and approximately 18 grams of fat. It also includes important vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, zinc, and selenium. These play vital roles in energy production, immune function, and overall health.
Additionally, ground beef is a good source of creatine, which supports muscle growth and function. Including lean ground beef in your diet can help you get these essential nutrients more easily.
Protein Content
Ground beef is particularly known for its high protein content. A typical serving of ground beef can provide nearly half of the recommended daily protein intake for an average adult. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes, and supporting overall growth.
When you choose lean ground beef, you get this high protein content without excessive fats. This makes it a beneficial option for those looking to build muscle or maintain a healthy weight.
Iron and Minerals
Ground beef is an excellent source of heme iron, which is more easily absorbed by your body compared to non-heme iron found in plant sources. Just one serving of ground beef can provide about 15% of your daily iron requirement. Iron is essential for carrying oxygen in your blood and supporting energy levels.
In addition to iron, ground beef is rich in zinc, which is important for a healthy immune system, and selenium, which helps protect cells from damage. Including ground beef in your meals can help ensure you meet your daily mineral needs efficiently.
Cooking Tips for Ground Beef
Cooking ground beef properly involves selecting the right type, storing it correctly, and cooking it to a safe temperature. These steps ensure a tasty and healthy meal.
Choosing the Right Type
Ground beef comes in different fat percentages. 80/20 (80% lean, 20% fat) is great for juicy burgers, while 90/10 is better for dishes like tacos or spaghetti sauce where you might want less grease.
Look for beef that is bright red and avoid any packages that have turned brown. Freshness is key. If possible, choose beef that has been ground in-store rather than pre-packaged.
Beef labeled as “grass-fed” or “organic” often comes with additional health benefits, though it may be more expensive. Decide based on your preference and budget.
Proper Storage
Refrigerate or freeze ground beef as soon as you bring it home. In the fridge, it should be used within 1-2 days. In the freezer, it can last up to 4 months.
When freezing, divide the beef into portions and flatten them. This makes it easier to thaw. Use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
Label the packages with the date you froze them. This helps you keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
Safe Cooking Temperatures
Cooking ground beef thoroughly is important to kill harmful bacteria. The internal temperature should reach at least 160°F (71°C).
Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat without touching any cookware.
Don’t rely solely on color as a guide. Beef can still be pink inside even when fully cooked. Always go by the temperature to be safe.
Frequent handwashing and keeping cooking surfaces clean will help prevent cross-contamination when handling raw beef.
Pairing Ground Beef with Other Ingredients
Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that blends well with various flavors, vegetables, and seasonings. To make the most of your ground beef dishes, pay attention to these key elements.
Flavor Combinations
Ground beef shines when paired with a mix of savory and umami flavors. For a classic taste, combine it with tomato sauce, onions, and garlic. These ingredients form the base of many recipes, like pasta sauces and chili.
For a more exotic profile, add soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. These ingredients provide a rich, Asian-inspired flavor that works well in dishes like Korean beef bowls and stir-fries.
Mixing in some mustard or Worcestershire sauce can add complexity to meatloaf or burgers. These condiments enhance the beef’s natural taste and create a more intricate flavor.
Complementary Vegetables
Certain vegetables pair exceptionally well with ground beef. Bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes are common choices that add both flavor and texture. They are often used in stuffed peppers, chili, and tacos.
Carrots and peas are great for adding sweetness and crunch. They blend well in dishes like shepherd’s pie or beef stew.
Leafy greens like spinach and kale are also excellent. They can be incorporated into ground beef mixtures for added nutrients and a slight bitterness that complements the meat’s richness.
Potatoes work wonderfully, too. They can be mashed, roasted, or incorporated into dishes like hash or casseroles. Their neutral flavor makes them a good match for seasoned ground beef.
Best Spices and Herbs
The right spices and herbs can elevate ground beef dishes significantly. Cumin and chili powder are essential for Mexican-inspired recipes, adding warmth and depth. Use them in tacos, burritos, and enchiladas for an authentic touch.
For Italian dishes, go with basil, oregano, and thyme. These herbs bring a fragrant, Mediterranean flavor to meat sauces and lasagna.
When making Middle Eastern or Indian dishes, incorporate coriander, paprika, and turmeric. These spices offer complex and aromatic profiles suitable for dishes like keema or kebabs.
Adding herbs like parsley or cilantro at the end of cooking can brighten and freshen up the dish. They are especially good in ground beef salads, tacos, and garnishes for soups.
