10 One-Pan Ground Beef Recipes for Quick Dinners

When I’m busy but still want a tasty meal, I often turn to one-pan recipes with ground beef. They save time on cooking and cleaning, making dinner a lot easier.

One-pan meals are perfect for quick dinners because they are simple, delicious, and require minimal cleanup.

I love how versatile ground beef can be. Whether I’m in the mood for something hearty or light, there’s a one-pan recipe that fits the bill.

These meals can be packed with veggies and flavors, offering great nutrition without much effort.

Cheesy Taco Skillet

I love making a Cheesy Taco Skillet when I want a quick and tasty dinner. This recipe combines ground beef, beans, and veggies into one dish. The melted cheese on top makes it feel special.

This meal is great because it’s quick and easy to prepare. The flavors remind me of taco night, with a cheesy twist.

It usually takes me about 30 minutes to cook, and it’s super simple.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 1 cup corn
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks until no longer pink.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onions are soft.
3. Stir in the black beans, corn, and taco seasoning. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover the skillet. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.

For a fun twist, I sometimes add diced bell peppers or swap ground beef with turkey. This helps keep it light and healthy.

You can also serve it over rice or pasta for a heartier meal.

2. Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers

I love making Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers. They are colorful and packed with flavor. Each bite is a delicious mix of seasoned beef and rice, all wrapped in a sweet bell pepper.

This recipe is great for busy nights. It takes about 40 minutes to cook and is easy enough for anyone to try. The savory beef combined with melty cheese creates a comforting dish everyone enjoys.

For ingredients, you’ll need:

• 4 large bell peppers
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• Onions, garlic, and seasoning to taste

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F.

Slice the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds.

In a pan, cook the beef with onions and garlic until it’s browned. Mix in the cooked rice and marinara sauce.

Next, stuff each pepper with the beef mixture. Top with shredded cheese and place them in a baking dish.

Cover with foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Removing the foil for the last 10 minutes lets the cheese get bubbly.

For a twist, you can swap out the beef for turkey or add more veggies. I like to use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier option.

These stuffed peppers are perfect for meal prep too. They reheat well and taste just as good the next day.

If you need some cookware, check out my favorite baking dishes here. Happy cooking!

3. Korean Beef and Broccoli

Korean Beef and Broccoli is one of my favorite quick dinners. The mix of savory beef and crisp broccoli in a sweet soy sauce makes it really satisfying. It feels like a special meal, but it’s actually super easy to prepare.

This recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish and is simple enough for beginners. I often make it after a long day when I want something delicious without a lot of fuss.

You’ll need lean ground beef, fresh broccoli, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice for serving. That’s it!

Start by cooking the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s browned, add minced garlic and ginger, and stir for a minute. Then, mix in soy sauce and sesame oil for flavor.

While the beef cooks, I steam the broccoli separately until it’s bright green and tender-crisp.

Combine everything in the skillet and toss it all together. Serve it on a bed of rice for a complete meal.

A good tip is to use fresh ginger if possible; it really boosts the flavor. If you want a lighter version, you can swap ground beef for turkey.

This dish is great for leftovers, too. Just reheat and enjoy again. When I share this recipe with friends, they always ask for seconds!

4. One-Pan Beef Stroganoff

One-Pan Beef Stroganoff is one of my go-to meals for busy weeknights. It’s creamy, savory, and super satisfying, making it a favorite in my house. Plus, using just one pan makes cleanup a breeze!

This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, which is perfect for my hectic schedule. It’s easy enough for a beginner, yet delicious enough to impress anyone.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in onions and garlic, cooking until soft, around 3 minutes. Then add mushrooms and cook for an additional 4 minutes.
3. Pour in beef broth and add egg noodles. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until noodles are tender.
4. Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in sour cream and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For a twist, try using chicken or turkey instead of beef. You can also replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. My family loves this recipe, and I hope you will too!

5. Sweet and Sour Beef Skillet

One of my favorite weeknight meals is the Sweet and Sour Beef Skillet. It’s quick, tasty, and packed with flavor. The combination of savory beef and tangy sauce makes it a hit at my dinner table.

This dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and is easy enough for beginners. The bold flavors brighten up the meal, and I love how simple it is to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it apart as it cooks until it’s no longer pink. This usually takes about 7 minutes.

2. Drain any excess fat, then add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until they are soft, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in the frozen vegetables, pineapple chunks, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and garlic powder. Bring it to a boil.

4. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to combine all the flavors.

Pro Tips:

You can swap the beef for ground turkey for a healthier option. Adding a dash of hot sauce gives it a nice kick, too! This dish pairs well with rice or noodles, so feel free to adjust based on your preference.

It’s a fantastic meal that satisfies every time. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pan!

6. Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

I love a good casserole, especially when it combines ground beef and potatoes. This hearty dish is comforting and simple. It has a creamy texture and a savory flavor that warms you up.

Cooking this casserole takes about 45 minutes. It’s easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

You’ll need these ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• ¾ cup milk
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 3 thinly sliced potatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste

To make it, start by browning the ground beef with the onion in a skillet. Drain excess fat. Then, mix in the cream of mushroom soup and milk.

Next, layer the sliced potatoes in a baking dish. Pour the beef mixture over the potatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

I often switch things up too. You can add chopped carrots or even use sweet potatoes for a twist. If you want a little kick, sprinkle some cheese on top before baking.

This dish is a real crowd-pleaser at my house. Everyone enjoys it, and you can easily customize it to fit dietary needs. Whether you’re serving a small family or hosting friends, this casserole will be a hit!

7. Mexican Beef and Quinoa

I love making quick and delicious meals, and Mexican Beef and Quinoa is a favorite in my house. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and packed with nutrients.

The blend of ground beef, quinoa, black beans, and spices creates a warm, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Plus, it’s a one-pan recipe, which makes cleanup a breeze.

Cooking this dish takes about 30 minutes, and it’s easy enough for beginners. You’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Shredded cheese for topping

Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat if needed.

Next, add the quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and seasonings to the skillet. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.

Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 25 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy.

I like to sprinkle some cheese on top while it’s still hot for that gooey goodness.

If you want to swap beef for turkey or add extra veggies like bell peppers, go for it! This dish is flexible.

I often enjoy it with a side of avocado or some crunchy tortilla chips. It’s a family favorite that never disappoints!

8. Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

I love making Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry for a quick dinner. This dish is not only speedy but also packed with flavors.

The mix of tender beef, crunchy cabbage, and colorful veggies always hits the spot.

Cooking time is around 25 minutes, and I’d say it’s easy to make. You only need a few ingredients, and it all comes together in one pan.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cups chopped cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, minced
• Soy sauce, to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Start by heating some olive oil in a large pan. Add the minced garlic and ginger; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Then, toss in the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned.

Next, it’s time for the veggies! Add cabbage, carrots, and bell pepper. Stir everything together and cook for about 4-5 minutes until the veggies are tender.

I often switch it up by adding a dash of sesame oil for extra flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap the ground beef for chicken or tofu for a different taste.

This stir fry looks beautiful on a plate and tastes amazing! Enjoy it straight away or save some for lunch the next day.

9. Italian Beef Skillet Lasagna

I love making Italian Beef Skillet Lasagna because it’s a comforting meal that hits the spot every time! The rich flavors of marinara, cheesy goodness, and tender beef come together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Cooking this dish takes about 30 minutes and is super easy. The great thing is, you’ll use common ingredients that you probably have at home already.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 2 cups of marinara sauce
• 8 ounces of lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 2 cups of ricotta cheese
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese, for topping
• Salt and pepper to taste

Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s nice and cooked, drain any fat.

Then, stir in the marinara sauce and broken lasagna noodles. Add some water if it seems too thick.

Next, dollop ricotta cheese over the mixture and sprinkle with mozzarella. Cover and let it simmer until the noodles are tender—about 15 minutes.

For a personal touch, I often add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies. You can also swap the ground beef with turkey for a lighter option.

If you love quick and hearty meals, this one is a winner! Just grab your favorite skillet and enjoy.

10. Greek Beef and Orzo

I love making Greek Beef and Orzo for a quick dinner. It’s comforting and packed with flavor. The mix of savory ground beef, tender orzo, and zesty tomato sauce is something my family really enjoys.

This dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights. It’s easy to cook, too, which is always a plus in my book. I often find myself coming back to this recipe when I need something satisfying.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup water
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

To make it, I start by heating olive oil in a large pot. Then, I add diced onion and cook until soft.

Next, I brown the ground beef until fully cooked. I stir in the orzo, marinara sauce, and water, then let it simmer until the orzo is tender.

For some extra nutrition, I usually toss in fresh spinach or kale near the end. You could even add some red pepper flakes for a kick if you like it spicy.

Benefits of One-Pan Meals

One-pan meals are a lifesaver for busy nights. They save me time and make dinner hassle-free. I love how everything cooks together, bringing out great flavors while cutting down on my kitchen mess.

Time-Saving Advantages

One-pan meals really shine when it comes to saving time. With everything cooking in just one pan, I can cut my meal prep time by half.

I typically spend less than 30 minutes putting the ingredients together.

Cooking in one pan means I don’t have to switch pots or pans. Everything cooks simultaneously, allowing me to spend those saved minutes doing other important things, like enjoying family time or relaxing after a long day.

Plus, many one-pan recipes are quick to prepare. They often require minimal chopping and measuring. This can make meal planning feel less overwhelming and help me stick to my cooking goals.

Easy Clean-Up

Another reason I love one-pan meals is the easy clean-up. After a busy day, the last thing I want to do is wash a mountain of dishes.

With one-pan recipes, I usually only have my cutting board and a single pan to deal with.

This means fewer dishes in the sink and less time spent cleaning. I can often soak or wash everything in just five minutes.

It’s also easier to store leftovers. I can simply cover the pan and pop it in the fridge. This saves me even more time later when I need a quick meal or snack. Overall, easy clean-up is a game changer in my kitchen routine.

Tips for Cooking with Ground Beef

When cooking with ground beef, I find the right selection and preparation techniques make all the difference. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Choosing the Right Ground Beef

Not all ground beef is created equal. I usually start by looking for the fat content, which can range from 70% lean to 95% lean.

• 70/30: This has more fat, which adds flavor but can lead to greasy dishes.
• 80/20: This is a good balance, offering flavor without too much grease.
• 90/10 or 95/5: These are leaner options, great for healthier meals.

It’s also important to check the color. Fresh ground beef should be bright red. If it’s more brown, it might not be as fresh. If I want to make dishes like tacos or burgers, I typically choose an 80/20 mix.

Properly Browning the Meat

Browning ground beef properly is key to getting rich flavor and a good texture. First, I make sure to use a large, heavy skillet to allow for even cooking.

Here’s how I do it:

1. Heat the pan: I start with medium to medium-high heat and add a little oil if using leaner meat.
2. Break it up: As the beef cooks, I break it up with a spatula to ensure even browning.
3. Don’t overcrowd: If I have a lot of meat, I cook it in batches. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than browning.

I wait until the beef is uniformly brown before draining any excess fat, especially when using fattier cuts. Proper browning creates a delicious base for any one-pan meal.