Picky and broke? 15 ground beef dishes to save your dinner

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Ground beef is a lifesaver when you’re short on cash and picky about dinner. With 15 different dishes to choose from, there’s always something to suit your taste. These recipes are simple, using ingredients you probably already have at home. They’re quick to make, so you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. You’ll get a tasty meal without breaking the bank. Ground beef makes it easy to eat well on a budget.

Spaghetti with meat and cheese in a baking dish
Million Dollar spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

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

Combining the satisfying textures of pasta and beans with ground beef, Pasta e Fagioli Soup is both nutritious and filling. The rich, savory broth makes it a comforting choice, especially during colder months. This one-pot meal is simple to prepare and minimizes cleanup. It’s a great way to enjoy a wholesome dish without breaking the bank. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pizza Casserole

Pizza Casserole in two serving dishes.
Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of a traditional pizza in a convenient, layered format with Pizza Casserole. Ground beef forms the base of this dish, topped with cheese and sauce for a satisfying meal. It’s an excellent choice for feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week. Popular with families, it provides a comforting taste without the expense of takeout. Easy to make and always a hit, it’s perfect for picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

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

Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms is a classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or rice. Ground beef patties are cooked to perfection and served with a rich mushroom gravy. This dish is both affordable and satisfying, making it a great option for those on a budget. It’s a step up from basic burgers, offering a more sophisticated flavor profile. Ideal for a cozy family dinner, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

Cheeseburger Casserole

A top-down shot of Cheeseburger Casserole with pickles and cheese nearby.
Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Bringing the flavors of a cheeseburger into a comforting casserole, Cheeseburger Casserole is a delicious, all-in-one meal. Ground beef is mixed with pasta and topped with a cheesy, creamy sauce. It’s an easy dish to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. This casserole is also a hit with kids, offering familiar flavors in a new format. Affordable and satisfying, it’s a great way to enjoy a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Casserole

Beef and Barley Soup

A bowl of Beef and Barley Soup with a burger on a long white tray.
Beef and Barley Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A hearty and nutritious option, Beef and Barley Soup is perfect for a warming meal. Ground beef and barley combine to create a filling soup that’s both healthy and economical. It’s an excellent choice for meal prepping or serving a large family. The rich broth and wholesome ingredients make it a comforting dish for any occasion. Easy to prepare, it’s ideal for those looking for a budget-friendly, delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Barley Soup

Smoked Meatballs

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

Smoked Meatballs offer a delicious twist on a classic favorite, adding a smoky flavor that elevates the dish. Ground beef is shaped into meatballs and smoked to perfection, providing a unique taste experience. This dish is great for BBQs or family gatherings, offering a flavorful alternative to traditional meatballs. Easy to prepare, it’s perfect for impressing guests without much effort. Economical and tasty, it’s a win-win for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Meatballs

Tacos Dorados

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

Ground beef is used to fill tortillas, which are then fried to a perfect crispiness. Tacos Dorados are a crispy, flavorful option that turns ground beef into a delightful meal. This dish is great for taco nights, offering a different texture and taste from regular soft tacos. Easy to prepare and budget-friendly, they’re perfect for feeding a family or a group of friends. A satisfying and fun twist on traditional tacos.
Get the Recipe: Tacos Dorados

Authentic Bolognese Sauce

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

Authentic Bolognese Sauce brings the rich, deep flavors of Italy to your table, perfect for pasta lovers. It’s an economical way to enjoy a taste of Italy without dining out. This sauce can be made in large batches, ideal for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Enjoy the comfort of a homemade Italian classic with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Bolognese Sauce

Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat

A bowl of Texas roadhouse chili with jalapenos and beans.
Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Recreate the taste of a restaurant favorite at home with the Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe. Ground beef is the star in this hearty chili, offering a rich, robust flavor that’s perfect for chilly nights. It’s a budget-friendly dish that can be made in large quantities, ideal for leftovers or meal prepping. Enjoy the comfort and satisfaction of a warm bowl of chili without the cost of dining out. Easy to make and always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Spaghetti with meat and cheese in a baking dish
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy a rich and indulgent dish with Million Dollar Spaghetti, perfect for a special dinner. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a luxurious meal without spending a fortune. This dish is sure to impress guests or make any weeknight feel special. Easy to make, it combines comfort and elegance in one satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Kefta Beef Kabobs

Kefta Beef Kabobs stacked on a white platter.
Kefta Beef Kabobs. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Kefta Beef Kabobs bring the flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine to your dinner table, offering a delicious alternative to traditional beef dishes. Ground beef is seasoned and shaped onto skewers, then grilled to perfection. These kabobs are perfect for BBQs or family meals, providing a unique and tasty option that’s both easy and affordable. Great for feeding a crowd or preparing a special dinner at home. A flavorful and satisfying dish.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Beef Kabobs

Taco Casserole

A Taco Casserole dish with black beans, cheese and jalapenos.
Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Easy to prepare and budget-friendly, it’s a great way to enjoy a Mexican-inspired meal at home. Taco Casserole combines the best elements of a taco in a convenient, baked dish that’s perfect for busy nights. Ground beef is layered with your favorite taco toppings, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s an excellent choice for feeding a family, offering the familiar flavors of tacos without the mess. Always a crowd-pleaser and perfect for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger soup in two serving bowls.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

A budget-friendly dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy the whole family. Cheeseburger Soup transforms the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a comforting, creamy soup. Ground beef adds a hearty element to this rich soup, making it perfect for cold days. Great for weeknight dinners, it offers a fun twist on traditional soup. Enjoy the comforting taste of a cheeseburger in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Two servings of Cowboy Cornbread Casserole on plates.
Cowboy Cornbread Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish is perfect for feeding a family, offering a unique blend of flavors that’s both satisfying and economical. Cowboy Cornbread Casserole combines ground beef with a sweet cornbread topping for a hearty, filling meal. Easy to prepare, it’s a great option for busy nights when you need a quick and delicious dinner. The cornbread adds a comforting touch, making this casserole a favorite for any occasion. Ideal for those who love a good, hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Blackstone Smash Burger

A burger held in two hands.
Blackstone Smash Burger. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Blackstone Smash Burgers are a delicious way to enjoy a juicy burger with a crispy exterior. Ground beef is pressed and cooked on a flat top grill, creating a flavorful, caramelized crust. This method is quick and easy, perfect for making multiple burgers at once. Ideal for BBQs or family gatherings, these burgers are a hit with everyone. Enjoy a restaurant-quality burger at home without the cost.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Smash Burger

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