The age-old problem: what to do with leftover ground beef? I mean, you’ve had your fill of spaghetti Bolognese, tacos, and meatballs, but that pound of ground beef is still staring at you from the fridge, begging to be used. Well, worry no more, friend! I’ve got 15 genius ways to repurpose that ground beef, and trust me, you’ll be wondering how you ever lived without these things to do with ground beef.
1. Stuffed Peppers
This recipe rocks because it’s a flavorful, nutritious, and visually stunning way to use up ground beef. Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of veggies in!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 bell peppers, any color
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into tiny pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and diced tomatoes.
6. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
7. Fill each pepper with the ground beef mixture and top with the pepper tops.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Why You’ll Love It:
This recipe is a game-changer for using up ground beef, and it’s ready in under an hour! The combination of flavors and textures is amazing, and it’s a great way to get your daily dose of veggies in. Plus, it’s a beautiful dish to serve to guests.
2. Sliders
Who doesn’t love a good slider? This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, and it’s incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pickles
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- Cheese, lettuce, tomato, and any other toppings you like
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, pickles, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
4. Form the mixture into small patties.
5. Grill the patties for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. Assemble the sliders with your favorite toppings.
Why You’ll Love It:
These sliders are juicy, flavorful, and customizable. You can top them with anything you like, from classic cheese and lettuce to more adventurous options like caramelized onions or mushrooms.
3. Shepherd’s Pie
This classic comfort food dish is a staple for a reason. It’s hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into tiny pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, and flour to the skillet.
4. Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with the mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Why You’ll Love It:
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, and it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of ground beef, veggies, and mashed potatoes is comfort food at its finest.
4. Meatball Subs
Who doesn’t love a good meatball sub? This recipe is easy to make and customizable.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 4 sub rolls
- Provolone cheese, sliced
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
4. Form the mixture into small meatballs.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat.
8. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for a few minutes.
9. Assemble the subs by placing a few meatballs on each roll and topping with marinara sauce and provolone cheese.
Why You’ll Love It:
These meatball subs are easy to customize and perfect for a quick dinner. You can add your favorite toppings, from melted mozzarella to sautéed onions.
5. Tacos
Tacos are a staple for a reason. They’re easy to make, customizable, and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8-10 taco shells
- Shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and any other toppings you like
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into tiny pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, cilantro, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
3. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
4. Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the ground beef mixture into the shells and topping with your favorite toppings.
Why You’ll Love It:
These tacos are quick, easy, and delicious. You can customize them with your favorite toppings, from classic cheese and lettuce to more adventurous options like sliced avocado or salsa.
6. Stuffed Zucchini Boats
This recipe is a game-changer for using up ground beef and veggies. It’s healthy, flavorful, and visually stunning.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 zucchinis
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into tiny pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and diced tomatoes.
6. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides.
7. Fill each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Why You’ll Love It:
This recipe is a great way to use up ground beef and veggies. The combination of flavors and textures is amazing, and it’s a beautiful dish to serve to guests.
7. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This recipe is a quick and easy way to use up ground beef and veggies. It’s healthy, flavorful, and customizable.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into tiny pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and olive oil.
5. Pour the sauce over the ground beef and broccoli mixture and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Why You’ll Love It:
This recipe is a great way to use up ground beef and veggies. The combination of flavors and textures is amazing, and it’s a quick and easy dinner option.
8. Meatloaf
This classic comfort food dish is a staple for a reason. It’s hearty, satisfying, and easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, egg, ketchup, and oregano.
3. Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Why You’ll Love It:
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, and it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of ground beef, veggies, and ketchup is comfort food at its finest.
9. Beef and Mushroom Gravy over Egg Noodles
This recipe is a hearty and satisfying way to use up ground beef. It’s easy to make and customizable.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups mixed mushrooms
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz egg noodles
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into tiny pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth and flour.
6. Pour the broth mixture over the ground beef and mushroom mixture and stir to combine.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
8. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
9. Serve the gravy over the cooked egg noodles.
Why You’ll Love It:
This recipe is a great way to use up ground beef. The combination of flavors and textures is amazing, and it’s a hearty and satisfying dinner option.
10. Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
This recipe is a quick and easy way to use up ground beef. It’s customizable and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tortillas
- Shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and any other toppings you like
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into tiny pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cumin and chili powder.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large skillet or griddle, warm the tortillas over medium heat.
6. Spoon the ground beef mixture onto half of each tortilla and top with cheese.
7. Fold the tortillas in half and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
8. Assemble the quesadillas with your favorite toppings.
Why You’ll Love It:
This recipe is a great way to use up ground beef. The combination of flavors and textures is amazing, and it’s a quick and easy dinner option.
11. Beef and Vegetable Soup
This recipe is a hearty and satisfying way to use up ground beef. It’s easy to make and customizable.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and zucchini)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into tiny pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables to the pot and cook until tender.
4. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
Why You’ll Love It:
This recipe is a great way to use up ground beef. The combination of flavors and textures is amazing, and it’s a hearty and satisfying dinner option.
12. Beef Tater Tot Casserole
This recipe is a fun twist on a classic comfort food dish. It’s easy to make and customizable.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp dried chives
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into tiny pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, tater tots, cheese, sour cream, and chives.
5. Mix everything together until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Why You’ll Love It:
This recipe is a fun twist on a classic comfort food dish. The combination of ground beef, tater tots, and cheese is comfort food at its finest.
13. Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells
This recipe is a creative way to use up ground beef. It’s easy to make and customizable.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into tiny pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and egg.
7. Mix everything together until well combined.
8. Stuff each pasta shell with the ground beef mixture and place in a baking dish.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Why You’ll Love It:
This recipe is a creative way to use up ground beef. The combination of ground beef, spinach, and cheese is delicious and satisfying.
14. Beef and Mushroom Burgers
This recipe is a twist on a classic burger. It’s easy to make and customizable.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- Cheese, lettuce, tomato, and any other toppings you like
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, mushrooms, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
4. Form the mixture into patties.
5. Grill the patties for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. Assemble the burgers with your favorite toppings.
Why You’ll Love It:
This recipe is a twist on a classic burger. The combination of ground beef and mushrooms is delicious and satisfying.
15. Beef and Cheese Fritters
This recipe is a fun and easy way to use up ground beef. It’s customizable and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, egg, cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into small patties.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Fry the patties for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain the fritters on paper towels and serve hot.
Why You’ll Love It:
This recipe is a fun and easy way to use up ground beef. The combination of ground beef and cheese is delicious and satisfying.
In conclusion, these 15 recipes are the perfect solution for using up leftover ground beef. From classic comfort food dishes like meatloaf and shepherd’s pie to more adventurous options like beef and mushroom burgers, there’s something for everyone. The best part? These recipes are all quick, easy, and customizable, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. So next time you’re staring down a pound of leftover ground beef, don’t throw it away – get creative and try one of these things to do with ground beef!
