Ground beef 🥩—one of the most versatile ingredients ever. Here are easy, go-to ways to use ground beef, plus one solid basic recipe you can build on.
Basic Seasoned Ground Beef
Perfect for tacos, rice bowls, pasta, or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- Salt & black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Optional: paprika or chili powder
Instructions
- Brown beef in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Break it up as it cooks; drain excess fat.
- Season and cook 2–3 more minutes.
Popular Ground Beef Meals
Here are some easy directions depending on what you’re craving:
🍔 Hamburgers
- Season with salt & pepper only
- Grill or pan-sear 3–4 min per side
🌮 Taco Meat
- Add taco seasoning + 1/2 cup water
- Simmer 5 minutes
🍝 Spaghetti Meat Sauce
- Add garlic, onion, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning
- Simmer 20–30 minutes
🥔 Shepherd’s / Cottage Pie
- Cook beef with onions, carrots, peas
- Top with mashed potatoes, bake
🥘 Beef & Rice Skillet
- Add cooked rice, soy sauce, garlic, veggies
🥧 Meatloaf
- Mix with egg, breadcrumbs, onion, ketchup
- Bake at 350°F for 50–60 min
🔥 Pro Tips
- 80/20 beef = best flavor
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—let it brown
- Season after browning for best texture
- Freeze cooked beef for quick meals later
If you want, tell me what you’re making (tacos, pasta, soup, casserole, etc.) and I’ll give you a specific recipe.
