When you’re running on empty, these 13 ground beef meals make dinner almost effortless

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When time and energy are in short supply, these 13 recipes provide a practical solution for getting dinner on the table. They’re versatile enough to fit into any schedule, helping you create meals that feel complete without taking too much time. Perfect for winter evenings, these meals bring a sense of ease and coziness to dinnertime.

A slice of John Wayne casserole on a black plate beside a baking dish of the same casserole.
John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

A white rectangular plate with slow cooker porcupine meatballs, garnished with fresh herbs.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Coming home to the aroma of Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs is a reminder of how simple ingredients can produce delicious results. These meatballs are hassle-free and cook slowly in their own sauce, making dinnertime a breeze. After a day’s work, this comforting dish becomes a warm hug on a plate. It’s just what you need to wind down and relax, as each bite brings homely satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Easy Ground Beef Fried Rice

Ground Beef Fried Rice served in a white bowl with blue chopstick on top.
Easy Ground Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

With Easy Ground Beef Fried Rice, getting dinner ready is as simple as it gets. It’s a quick skillet wonder that combines the heartiness of ground beef with classic fried rice. Ideal for those evenings when time is of the essence, this dish promises a delicious meal without any fuss. The result is a fulfilling and warm dish that brings the family together any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Easy Ground Beef Fried Rice

Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

Salisbury Steak on a bed of mashed potatoes.
Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

There’s something about Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly evening. This comforting classic goes from skillet to plate without complication yet feels like a feast. It’s a dependable meal that won’t leave you stranded in the kitchen for hours. Enjoy the simplicity and richness of this dish as it takes the dinner stress away.
Get the Recipe: Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

On a brisk day, the hearty goodness of Pasta e Fagioli Soup welcomes you with open arms. It’s an uncomplicated one-pot meal that is both nourishing and reassuring. Each spoonful is a soothing escape from the cold weather outside, perfect for replenishing your energy. Let this soup work its magic, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Best Ever Giant Meatballs

A stack of giant meatballs garnished with grated cheese and fresh herbs served on a black rectangular slate plate.
Best Ever Giant Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Best Ever Giant Meatballs bring undeniable comfort, especially when you crave something hearty. These are not your ordinary meatballs; they are substantial and packed full of flavor. With minimal prep, they turn your dinner into an occasion without any stress. End your day on a high note with a meal that’s both filling and fuss-free.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Giant Meatballs

Big Mac Tacos

Two Big Mac tacos filled with ground beef, shredded lettuce, and pickles, and drizzled with a creamy sauce, placed on a white plate.
Big Mac Tacos. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

When craving a twist on fast-food favorites, Big Mac Tacos are your go-to for a quick and flavorful meal. This inventive dish combines well-loved flavors in a fun and novel way. It’s a casual yet ingenious way to serve dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Share laughs and stories around the table while enjoying these unique tacos.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Tacos

Bacon-Wrapped Burgers

Bacon-Wrapped Burger on a black plate.
Bacon-Wrapped Burgers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Nothing says hearty like a Bacon-Wrapped Burger enjoyed in the coziness of your own dining room. This spin on a classic will have you relishing each bite without the hassle of complicated cooking techniques. It’s a straightforward approach to a satisfying meal that won’t leave you exhausted. Gather around with loved ones and enjoy a burger night that brings everyone comfort and joy.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Burgers

Ground Beef Fried Rice

Ground Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Dinner By Six.
Ground Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Transform your evening with the inviting flavors of Ground Beef Fried Rice. It’s a dish that requires minimal effort yet yields maximum taste. As a midweek meal solution, it’s as reliable as they come, offering both nutrition and soul-satisfying warmth. Enjoy the ease of this all-in-one dish that promises to be a hit at any dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Fried Rice

Smoked Meatballs

Smoked meatballs in a dish with grilled bread.
Smoked Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

As the smoky aroma of Smoked Meatballs wafts through the air, you know you’re in for a treat. This unique spin on a classic is perfect for those who love a hint of smoke in their dishes. Let the slow and low cooking do all the work, resulting in a meal that is rich in flavor and low in stress. It’s the perfect meal to cozy up with after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Meatballs

Authentic Bolognese Sauce

Bolognese Sauce on pasta.
Authentic Bolognese Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A slow-simmered Authentic Bolognese Sauce is a testament to the beauty of uncomplicated cooking. This dish gradually thickens into a rich and cozy staple, ideal for those chilly evenings indoors. As it cooks, it requires little intervention, allowing you time to unwind. Serve this and relish in the comforting power of a well-made Bolognese.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Bolognese Sauce

Tacos Dorados

Three Tacos Dorados on a rectangular plate.
Tacos Dorados. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crispy Tacos Dorados are the perfect answer to your craving for something warm and crunchy. They require surprisingly little effort to make and are a surefire crowd-pleaser. Gather everyone for a laid-back dinner filled with crunch and flavor. These tacos will have you enjoying every moment, from the kitchen to the comfort of your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Tacos Dorados

Pastitsio

A square piece of pastitsio dish served on a stack of black plates.
Pastitsio. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you’re in the mood for some soul-warming fare, Pastitsio offers a special touch to the dinner routine. This Greek-inspired oven-baked treat does not demand elaborate prep but is sure to impress. It’s a blend of simple cooking and rich flavors that will have you feeling taken care of. Finish your day with this nourishing dish that feeds both body and spirit.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio

John Wayne Casserole

A slice of John Wayne casserole on a black plate beside a baking dish of the same casserole.
John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

For nights when you need a dose of homestyle cooking, look no further than John Wayne Casserole. Aptly named, this robust dish brings a bit of bravado to the dinner table with minimal effort. It’s the kind of meal that allows for stress-free preparation, leading to more time to enjoy with your family. Get ready for a fulfilling dinner that will leave everyone content and comfortable.
Get the Recipe: John Wayne Casserole

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