When it comes to making dinner on a weeknight, let's face it: We may have the best intentions, but we're often too overworked and too stressed to do it right. Sometimes we can't even come up with any ideas, and it makes us wonder why no one ever told us when we were growing up that the hardest question we would have to answer as adults would be "What's for dinner?" Especially as moms! Sigh. But not to worry. We've put together a list of easy dinner ideas that you can make using ground beef.
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Ground beef may not seem all that exciting, but it's so dang versatile, that it actually can be. From tacos to pasta to casseroles to empanadas and more—we got ya! Keep these recipes on hand so that you never, ever draw a blank when asked, "What's for dinner?" Oh, and we didn't even put the most obvious ground beef meal choices on this list because we're pretty sure you could come up with burgers on your own. We love burgers, but here are some other great ground beef dinner options to throw in the mix.
Mexican-style ground beef goes with anything.
You can't get any easier at dinner time than whipping up a skillet full of flavorful, well-seasoned Mexican-style ground beef. Cook up a pot of rice, throw in some veggies and tortillas, and you're all set in less than 30 minutes.
Arepas with beef chili sounds so delicious.
Arepas are so popular because they come together quickly and easily and can be paired with almost anything to make a perfect snack or meal. Eric Dinho of My Colombian Recipes likes to top them with a simple beef chili and guacamole, which sounds like dinner perfection.
Puerto Rican piñon is a mostly hands-off recipe.
This ground beef and sweet plantain casserole is a take on Puerto Rican piñon, and once you make your picadillo for the base, most of the cooking time is totally hands-off. While the sweet and savory dish bakes in the oven for 45 minutes, you can get a head start on the next item on your to-do list.
Albondigas soup is a meal in itself.
This Mexican meatball soup really is a meal in itself. It has meat, potatoes, and veggies. You can serve it as is or with some corn tortillas or a quesadilla on the side if you want to go above and beyond.
This taco macaroni and cheese is the easiest one-pot dish ever.
A taco-inspired mac and cheese? We say YES, PLEASE! The fact that it's made in just one pot is just … well, cheese on the taco cake. Oh, and it takes only 30 minutes to make. That's a busy mom's dream. Nice!
These tacos are incredibly easy and quick to make.
It doesn't have to be Taco Tuesday in order to indulge in your favorite weeknight treat, and these homemade tacos make it super simple to do. Keep in mind that you can always substitute ground chicken or turkey for the ground beef.
Don't forget that Cuban picadillo is great for dinner.
A flavorful picadillo is always a hit for dinner, especially in a Latino household. Whenever you make it, be sure to make a double batch. That way you can freeze half and have it ready for the following week.
Queso and ground beef poblano peppers are a party in your mouth.
These make for great party nibbles, but they also make dinner feel like a party. The combination of flavors is joyful, and you'll want more than one. Serve them with a side of rice and some beans.
Beef and mushroom empanadas make delightful snacks any time of day.
Spend some time on a Sunday afternoon to make a big batch of empanadas stuffed with all kinds of yumminess. This version includes ground beef and mushrooms, but you could do beef and cheese or beef and beans if you like. It's crazy how quickly these lovelies will get devoured.
A tamale pie comes together in no time during your weeknight meals.
We like to call it a tamal pie, but this particular recipe refers to it as a "tamale" pie. Whatever you call it, it's good and way easier to make than tamales. Your family may have their doubts when looking at this dish, but once they taste it, they will fall in love.
Try a Mexican pizza instead of your usual on Friday night.
Everyone knows Friday nights are for family pizza and movies. But this week, go for a Mexican-style pizza instead—your family will love it! It's also WAY cheaper than ordering a pizza. When did pizzas get so expensive?
This taco braid is the fanciest easy dinner you'll ever make.
Taking a fancy concept like a baked braid and upgrading it with delicious taco flavors turns it into a meal. It's also easier to make than trying to get your kid to sit still while you braid their hair.
Make a batch of enchiladas topped with sour cream.
Not only is a big plate of enchiladas good for dinner any night, but leftovers will be devoured throughout the week, too. This is also a great recipe to make a double batch of so you can freeze some to make your following week easier.
Make this loaded beef taco salad for a healthier dinner.
If you're looking for some greens and veggies to mix with your beef, then look no further than this super-yummy loaded salad. Always allow yourself to stray from the recipe. Add a little of this and leave out a little of that to make it your own.
Mexican lasagna is a great make-ahead supper option.
Prep this Mexican lasagna over the weekend, then simply pop it into the oven and you'll have one super-easy dinner on the table. It tastes so good and definitely qualifies as comfort food.
Puerto Rican stuffed potatoes make a great meat and potatoes variation.
Most people don't think of Puerto Rican papas rellenas when someone mentions meat and potatoes for dinner, but your family will after trying these phenomenal little balls of perfectly spiced meat and potatoes.
Get ready to happily stuff yourself with this beef, bean, and cheese burrito.
These burritos are very filling, so save them for those weeknights when you and your family need a really large meal and don't have big plans afterward. Maybe just hang out and watch a movie together after dinner.
Try this one-pot cheesy taco pasta for a weeknight meal in no time.
We already shared a taco mac and cheese recipe that we think you'll love, but what about an even simpler taco-style pasta? Yes, even picky eaters will love this one, because what is there not to love?
