What to Cook with Ground Beef: 10 Easy Recipes You’ll Love

Ground beef is one of the most versatile and affordable proteins you can keep in your kitchen. Whether you’re planning a quick dinner for your family or experimenting with a new recipe, ground beef offers endless possibilities. At Wilson Farm Meats, we’re proud to provide premium, locally raised beef to customers in Williams Bay, WI, and the surrounding areas. In this blog, we’ll share ten easy recipes that answer the question, “What to cook with ground beef?” Let’s dive into some flavorful and satisfying ideas!

Transform your ground beef into a hearty Bolognese sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta. Start by browning your ground beef from Wilson Farm Meats in a skillet, then add onions, garlic, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer until thickened and serve over your favorite pasta.

Pro Tip: To elevate the flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and a splash of red wine while simmering the sauce.

Variation: Swap out spaghetti for zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.

2. Beef Tacos

Ground beef tacos are a family favorite that can be on the table in less than 30 minutes. Season your beef with taco seasoning, then load up soft or hard-shell tortillas with the meat and your favorite toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa.

Pro Tip: For an extra crunch, add crushed tortilla chips on top!

Serving Idea: Create a taco bar with assorted toppings so everyone can customize their own meal.

3. Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting, one-dish meal that’s perfect for cooler evenings. Sauté ground beef with onions, carrots, and peas, then layer it in a casserole dish. Top with creamy mashed potatoes and bake until golden brown.

Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes for a cheesy crust.

Make It Mini: Use ramekins for individual servings of Shepherd’s Pie, perfect for meal prepping or entertaining guests.

4. Beef-Stuffed Bell Peppers

For a healthier take, try beef-stuffed bell peppers. Hollow out colorful bell peppers and fill them with a mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, and marinara sauce. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through.

Pro Tip: Add shredded mozzarella for a melty topping.

Extra Tip: Experiment with grains like quinoa or barley as a substitute for rice to add variety.

5. Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes are a quick and kid-friendly meal. Cook your ground beef with onions and a tangy tomato-based sauce, then serve it on toasted buns. It’s a messy but delicious dinner everyone will love.

Pro Tip: Toast the buns to prevent them from getting soggy.

Upgrade: Add a slice of melted cheddar or provolone to make these even more indulgent.

6. Beef and Bean Chili

Chili is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for meal prep. Combine your ground beef with kidney beans, tomatoes, onions, and spices like chili powder and cumin. Let it simmer for a rich and hearty dish.

Pro Tip: Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions for extra flavor.

Hosting Idea: Serve chili with cornbread or over a baked potato for a filling and customizable meal.

7. Meatloaf

Meatloaf is a classic recipe that never goes out of style. Mix ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, and seasonings, then bake until it’s cooked through. Pair it with mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete meal.

Pro Tip: Glaze the top with a mixture of ketchup and brown sugar for a sweet and tangy finish.

Quick Meal Prep: Slice leftovers for sandwiches or crumble them over a salad the next day.

8. Hamburger Casserole

Layer ground beef, noodles, tomato sauce, and cheese in a casserole dish for an easy, baked meal that’s sure to satisfy. This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for the week.

Pro Tip: Add a layer of ricotta cheese for a lasagna-like twist.

Freezer Friendly: Prepare and freeze individual portions for convenient weeknight dinners.

9. Beef Stir-Fry

For a quick and healthy option, try a beef stir-fry. Cook ground beef with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, then toss in a mix of colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Serve over rice or noodles.

Pro Tip: Add a dash of sesame oil for authentic Asian flavor.

Meal Tip: Use pre-chopped stir-fry veggies to save time on busy weeknights.

10. Cheeseburger Soup

Warm up with a comforting bowl of cheeseburger soup. Brown ground beef, then simmer it with potatoes, carrots, and onions in a creamy cheese-based broth. It’s like your favorite burger in soup form.

Pro Tip: Top with crumbled bacon for an extra indulgent touch.

Serving Idea: Pair with a side of garlic bread for dipping.

Bonus Recipes: More Ground Beef Dinner Ideas

If you’re still wondering what to cook with ground beef, here are three more quick ideas:

1. Beef Quesadillas: Layer ground beef and cheese in a tortilla, then grill until crispy. Serve with salsa and guacamole.
2. Stuffed Zucchini Boats: Fill hollowed-out zucchini with ground beef, marinara, and cheese, then bake.
3. Beef Empanadas: Use store-bought dough to wrap seasoned ground beef, then bake or fry until golden brown.

Why Choose Ground Beef from Wilson Farm Meats?

When it comes to quality, Wilson Farm Meats stands out. Our ground beef is locally raised, USDA-inspected, and freshly prepared to ensure the best flavor and safety. Located in Elkhorn, WI, we are just a short drive from Williams Bay, WI, and we take pride in providing a farm-to-table experience. Whether you’re planning a quick dinner or stocking up for the week, you can count on our meats to deliver unmatched taste and quality.

USDA Cooking Temperature Guidelines

For food safety, always cook ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meals are safe to enjoy.

Visit Wilson Farm Meats Today!

Ready to cook up one of these delicious recipes? Stop by Wilson Farm Meats at 406 S Wisconsin St, Elkhorn, WI 53121 to pick up the freshest ground beef and other premium meats. Our friendly team is here to help you find everything you need for your next meal.

Store Hours:

• Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

We’re proud to serve the Williams Bay, WI community and beyond. Visit us today and discover the difference quality meats make in your cooking.