16 Simple One-Pot Ground Beef Dinners for Busy Nights

Nothing beats the convenience of throwing everything into one pot and creating a delicious family dinner. These ground beef recipes make weeknight cooking simple and cleanup even easier.

Each recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, perfect for busy families who want homemade meals without the fuss.

01. Green Chile Beef and Bean Stew

A quick weeknight twist on traditional chile verde using ground beef and green salsa. This hearty stew comes together in under 30 minutes for busy families.

Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef, 1 large onion (diced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 jar green salsa, 2 cans pinto beans (drained), 1 can diced tomatoes, 2 cups beef broth, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt and pepper to taste.

How To Make Green Chile Beef and Bean Stew

1. Brown the ground beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes, then drain excess fat.

2. Add diced onion to the beef and cook until softened and translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cumin, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

3. Pour in green salsa, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and pinto beans. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with fresh cilantro, diced red onion, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top.

02. German-Style Sweet and Sour Beef Soup

This comforting soup combines ground beef with cabbage and warm spices for authentic German flavors. The sweet and sour balance makes it incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef, 1 large onion (chopped), 4 cups beef broth, 1 small head cabbage (chopped), 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, salt and pepper.

How To Make German-Style Sweet and Sour Beef Soup

1. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until browned completely, breaking it apart as it cooks. Remove beef and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pot.

2. Sauté chopped onion in the remaining fat until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add caraway seeds and paprika, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until aromatic.

3. Return beef to pot and add beef broth, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavors.

4. Add chopped cabbage to the pot and cook for another 8-10 minutes until cabbage is tender but still has some bite. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

5. Ladle into bowls and serve with crusty rye bread for an authentic German experience that’s perfect for cold evenings.

03. Hearty Ground Beef Baked Bean Casserole

Transform ordinary baked beans into a satisfying main dish with seasoned ground beef. This protein-packed casserole is ready in just 25 minutes.

Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef, 1 medium onion (diced), 2 cans baked beans, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon mustard powder, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese.

How To Make Hearty Ground Beef Baked Bean Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and brown the ground beef in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until no pink remains, about 7 minutes, breaking it into small pieces.

2. Add diced onion to the beef and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in mustard powder and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant throughout.

3. Mix in baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together until well combined and bring to a gentle simmer on the stovetop.

4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and transfer skillet to preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes until cheese is melted and casserole is bubbling around the edges.

04. Loaded Beef and Bean Taco Soup

All your favorite taco flavors come together in this satisfying soup loaded with beans and corn. The toppings make each bowl feel like a fiesta.

Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef, 1 packet taco seasoning, 1 can black beans (drained), 1 can kidney beans (drained), 1 can corn (drained), 1 jar salsa, 2 cups beef broth, 1 can diced tomatoes, sour cream and cheese for serving.

How To Make Loaded Beef and Bean Taco Soup

1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat.

2. Stir the seasoning into the beef and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices. Add salsa, diced tomatoes, and beef broth, stirring to combine all ingredients well.

3. Add both types of beans and corn to the pot. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch and flavor.

5. This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep and busy weeknight dinners when you need something quick.

05. One-Pot Spaghetti with Rich Meat Sauce

Skip the separate pot for pasta with this genius one-pot method that infuses incredible flavor. The pasta cooks directly in the savory meat sauce.

Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef, 1 pound spaghetti, 1 jar marinara sauce, 3 cups beef broth, 1/2 cup red wine, 1 large onion (diced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper.

How To Make One-Pot Spaghetti with Rich Meat Sauce

1. Brown ground beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until fully cooked, about 8 minutes. Add diced onion and cook until softened, then stir in garlic and Italian seasoning.

2. Pour in red wine and let it simmer for 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol. Add marinara sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

3. Break spaghetti in half and add to the pot, pushing it down into the liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover, simmering for 15-18 minutes.

4. Stir frequently during cooking to prevent sticking, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits that add extra flavor to the sauce.

5. Once pasta is tender and sauce has thickened, remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow sauce to thicken further.

06. Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet Bake

This bubbling skillet combines pasta, meat sauce, and melted cheese in one pan. The pasta absorbs the sauce flavors while creating its own creamy texture.

Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef, 12 oz penne pasta, 1 jar pasta sauce, 2 cups beef broth, 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup ricotta cheese, 1 onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), Italian herbs, salt and pepper.

How To Make Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet Bake

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and brown ground beef in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes, then add garlic.

2. Stir in uncooked pasta, pasta sauce, beef broth, and Italian herbs. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover tightly with foil.

3. Cook for 15-18 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking, until pasta is almost tender and most liquid is absorbed by the noodles.

4. Remove from heat and dot with spoonfuls of ricotta cheese, then sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

07. Fresh Taco Lettuce Wraps

Crisp lettuce cups filled with seasoned ground beef make a light yet satisfying meal. These low-carb wraps are perfect for healthy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef, 1 packet taco seasoning, 1 head butter lettuce, 1 tomato (diced), 1/2 red onion (diced), 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 avocado (sliced), lime wedges for serving.

How To Make Fresh Taco Lettuce Wraps

1. Carefully separate lettuce leaves and wash them gently, then pat completely dry with paper towels. Select the largest, most cup-shaped leaves for the best wraps and set aside on a platter.

2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain excess fat and add taco seasoning with 1/4 cup water.

3. Simmer the seasoned beef for 3-4 minutes until the liquid evaporates and the meat is well coated with spices. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

4. Fill each lettuce cup with about 1/4 cup of the seasoned beef mixture. Top with diced tomatoes, red onion, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream for maximum flavor.

08. Classic Homestyle Chili

This traditional beef chili recipe delivers rich, comforting flavors that improve with time. Perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing for later meals.

Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef, 2 large onions (diced), 4 cloves garlic (minced), 2 cans kidney beans, 2 cans diced tomatoes, 1 can tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 tablespoon cumin, 1 teaspoon oregano, salt and pepper.

How To Make Classic Homestyle Chili

1. Brown ground beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook until deeply browned, about 8-10 minutes total.

2. Add diced onions to the beef and cook until softened and beginning to caramelize, about 6 minutes. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, and oregano, cooking until fragrant.

3. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and kidney beans with their liquid. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer partially covered for 1 hour.

4. Stir occasionally and add water if chili becomes too thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

5. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like diced red onion, shredded cheese, sour cream, and sliced scallions. This chili tastes even better the next day after flavors meld overnight.

09. Tex-Mex Cheesy Beef Pasta

Southwestern flavors meet comfort food in this creamy one-pot pasta dish. Chili powder and pico de gallo give it an authentic kick.

Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef, 12 oz rotini pasta, 1 cup pico de gallo, 2 cups beef broth, 1 cup heavy cream, 2 cups Mexican cheese blend, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 onion (diced), salt and pepper.

How To Make Tex-Mex Cheesy Beef Pasta

1. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until browned completely, about 7 minutes. Add diced onion and cook until softened, then stir in chili powder and cumin.

2. Add uncooked pasta, beef broth, and pico de gallo to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 12-15 minutes, stirring frequently.

3. When pasta is tender, stir in heavy cream and bring back to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce begins to thicken slightly.

4. Remove from heat and gradually stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper, then serve immediately topped with fresh cilantro and sour cream.

10. Old-Fashioned American Goulash

This economical family favorite combines ground beef, pasta, and tomatoes in one pot. It’s the ultimate comfort food that stretches your grocery budget.

Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef, 2 cups elbow macaroni, 1 large onion (diced), 1 bell pepper (diced), 2 cans diced tomatoes, 1 can tomato sauce, 2 cups beef broth, 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, salt and pepper.

How To Make Old-Fashioned American Goulash

1. Brown ground beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Add diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Stir in paprika and garlic powder, cooking for 1 minute until spices are fragrant. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth, bringing mixture to a boil.

3. Add uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot and stir well. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until pasta is tender.

4. Stir frequently during cooking to prevent sticking, adding more broth if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving this hearty, nostalgic meal.

11. Greek-Inspired Beef Pastitsio Skillet

All the flavors of traditional Greek pastitsio made simple in one skillet. Whole grain pasta and lean beef make this version healthier too.

Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef, 12 oz whole grain penne, 1 onion (diced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 can diced tomatoes, 2 cups beef broth, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup feta cheese, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon.

How To Make Greek-Inspired Beef Pastitsio Skillet

1. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, then stir in garlic, oregano, and cinnamon.

2. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, and uncooked pasta to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover, simmering for 15-18 minutes until pasta is tender.

3. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add more broth if needed. Once pasta is cooked, remove from heat and let cool for 2 minutes.

4. Stir in Greek yogurt until creamy, then top with crumbled feta cheese. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes to allow cheese to soften before serving this Mediterranean-inspired dish.

12. Homemade Hamburger Helper

Skip the box and make this healthier version with hidden vegetables. Finely chopped veggies blend seamlessly into the creamy sauce for picky eaters.

Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef, 2 cups elbow macaroni, 1 onion (finely chopped), 8 oz mushrooms (finely chopped), 2 carrots (finely chopped), 2 cups beef broth, 1 cup milk, 2 tablespoons flour, 1 cup cheddar cheese, salt and pepper.

How To Make Homemade Hamburger Helper

1. Use a food processor to finely chop onion, mushrooms, and carrots until they resemble small crumbs. This technique makes vegetables undetectable to picky eaters while adding nutrition.

2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped vegetable mixture. Cook for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are softened and moisture has evaporated.

3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir for 1 minute. Gradually add beef broth and milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming in the sauce.

4. Add uncooked pasta and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

5. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper, then let stand for 5 minutes to thicken before serving.

13. Healthier Beef and Bean Sloppy Joes

These fiber-packed sloppy joes use beans to stretch the meat and reduce sugar. You’ll get all the comfort food flavor with better nutrition.

Ingredients: 1/2 pound lean ground beef, 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed), 1 onion (diced), 1 bell pepper (diced), 1/2 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 6 whole grain hamburger buns.

How To Make Healthier Beef and Bean Sloppy Joes

1. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Add diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Stir in tomato paste and chili powder, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and 1/4 cup water, stirring to combine all ingredients.

3. Add black beans to the mixture and gently stir to combine without mashing the beans too much. Simmer for 8-10 minutes until sauce thickens and flavors meld together.

4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot on toasted whole grain buns for a satisfying meal that’s much healthier than traditional versions but just as delicious.

14. Veggie-Packed Beef Pasta Skillet

Finely chopped mushrooms blend with ground beef for extra vegetables and meaty texture. Kids won’t even notice the added nutrition in this family favorite.

Ingredients: 3/4 pound ground beef, 8 oz mushrooms (finely chopped), 12 oz penne pasta, 1 jar marinara sauce, 2 cups beef broth, 1 onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper.

How To Make Veggie-Packed Beef Pasta Skillet

1. Finely chop mushrooms in a food processor until they resemble the texture of ground beef. This clever trick adds extra vegetables while maintaining the familiar texture kids love.

2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped mushrooms and cook until moisture evaporates, about 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

3. Add diced onion and cook until softened, then stir in garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for another minute until fragrant throughout the mixture.

4. Add uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and beef broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover, simmering for 15-18 minutes until pasta is tender.

5. Stir frequently during cooking and add more broth if needed. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce before serving this nutritious family meal.

15. Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joe Sandwiches

Two comfort food classics combine in these messy, delicious sandwiches. Soft buns and melted cheese make every bite pure satisfaction for the whole family.

Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef, 1 large onion (sliced), 1 bell pepper (sliced), 8 oz mushrooms (sliced), 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 8 slices provolone cheese, 6 soft hoagie rolls, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper to taste.

How To Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joe Sandwiches

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened and beginning to caramelize, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 5 minutes. Push vegetables to one side of the skillet.

3. Add ground beef to the empty side of the skillet and brown thoroughly, breaking it into small pieces. Mix beef with the vegetables and add Worcestershire sauce.

4. Season mixture with salt and pepper, then reduce heat to low. Top with provolone cheese slices and cover skillet for 2-3 minutes until cheese melts completely.

5. Serve immediately on soft hoagie rolls, wrapping each sandwich in foil for easier eating. These messy sandwiches are best enjoyed with plenty of napkins and good company.

16. Loaded Chili Cheese Nachos

Transform nachos into a complete dinner with homemade chili and fresh toppings. This 30-minute meal brings restaurant flavors to your kitchen table.

Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef, 1 can kidney beans, 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 packet chili seasoning, 1 bag tortilla chips, 2 cups Mexican cheese blend, 1 avocado (diced), 2 tomatoes (diced), 1/2 cup sour cream, 2 green onions (sliced).

How To Make Loaded Chili Cheese Nachos

1. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked, about 7 minutes. Drain excess fat and add chili seasoning, stirring to coat the meat evenly.

2. Add kidney beans with their liquid and diced tomatoes to the beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until chili thickens slightly.

3. Preheat oven to 400°F and spread tortilla chips on a large baking sheet. Spoon hot chili over chips and sprinkle with Mexican cheese blend generously.

4. Bake for 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from oven and immediately top with diced avocado, fresh tomatoes, sour cream, and sliced green onions for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

These one-pot ground beef dinners prove that delicious family meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Each recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup required.

Keep these recipes handy for those busy weeknights when you need something satisfying that everyone will love without spending hours in the kitchen.