Some of the best meals don’t start with a complicated plan. They start with a pound of ground beef pulled from the fridge, a pan heating on the stove, and that familiar sizzling sound that instantly makes the kitchen feel warm and inviting.
This ground beef recipe is the kind you turn to on busy days, slow evenings, and everything in between—when you want something filling, comforting, and easy without giving up flavor.
Ground beef has a way of showing up for you when you need it most. It cooks quickly, takes on seasoning beautifully, and works with whatever ingredients you already have on hand.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, cooking for yourself after a long day, or just craving a simple homemade meal, this recipe fits right in. It’s hearty, satisfying, and flexible enough to make your own with small additions or swaps.
What makes this ground beef recipe special is how effortlessly it comes together while still tasting like something you put real care into. The flavors build naturally, the texture stays rich and comforting, and the final dish feels like classic home cooking done right.
It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again, not because it’s fancy, but because it works every single time. If you’re looking for a reliable, flavorful ground beef recipe that feels familiar yet never boring, you’re in the right place.
This is comfort food made simple, perfect for everyday cooking and always worth keeping in your rotation.
Save this Ground Turkey Recipe for your next easy meal and head over to the full article for all the steps, tips, and flavor variations. It’s a simple, reliable recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to, so click through and make it part of your weekly cooking routine.
Seasoning Ideas
The beauty of a ground beef recipe is how easily it takes on flavor. A simple blend of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder creates a solid base that works for almost any dish.
For deeper flavor, you can add paprika, cumin, or a pinch of chili flakes. If you prefer a slightly herby taste, dried oregano or Italian seasoning works well. Adjust the seasoning gradually and taste as you go to keep the flavors balanced.
Basic Recipe Overview
This ground beef recipe starts with browning the beef until it’s fully cooked and lightly caramelized, which adds depth and richness. Once cooked, seasonings are stirred in and allowed to bloom in the heat, coating the meat evenly.
Optional ingredients like cheese, spinach, or vegetables can be added at the end for extra texture and nutrition. After resting briefly, the dish is ready to serve on its own or as part of another meal.
Click through to the full Ground Turkey Recipe for easy steps, seasoning ideas, and cooking tips you can use any night of the week.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ medium yellow onion finely diced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups baby spinach lightly packed
- 2 to 2½ cups beef stock or broth, more as needed
- 1 cup orzo pasta measured dry (optional)
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RECIPE INSTRUCTIONS
01. Heat a large Crockpot (Slow-cooker or Skillet) over medium-high heat and add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook while stirring until the beef is fully browned with no pink left. Drain off any excess fat.
02. Add 2 cups of beef stock, orzo pasta (optional), tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper, then stir well. Bring the mixture to a boil, lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo (if adding) is soft and fully cooked.
03. Stir in the cream and Parmesan cheese, then cook uncovered for about 2 minutes, until the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
04. Take the pan off the heat and mix in the cheddar cheese and spinach, if using. Let it sit uncovered for about 5 minutes before serving. (If you want to make it healthier, you can skip adding cheese)
Adding Potatoes to the Ground Beef
To make this ground beef recipe more filling, you can easily add potatoes. Peel and dice the potatoes into small, even cubes so they cook quickly and evenly. Add them to the crockpot or pan after the ground beef has browned and been seasoned. Stir well to coat the potatoes in the flavors. If you want, you can add some green peas as well.
Pour in a small amount of water or broth, just enough to help the potatoes cook without making the dish watery. Cover and let everything simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, stirring occasionally.
Once the potatoes are cooked through, remove the lid and let any extra moisture cook off before finishing the dish. This creates a hearty, comforting meal that works well on its own or with a simple side.
Check out the full article for seasoning ideas and simple swaps that make this Ground Turkey Recipe work for any meal.
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Flavor Variations
You can easily customize this ground beef recipe based on your mood or what’s in your pantry. For a Tex-Mex version, add taco seasoning, cumin, and a splash of lime juice.
An Italian-style variation works well with garlic, tomato paste, and Italian herbs. If you like bold flavors, try adding soy sauce, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist. For a creamy version, stir in a little cream cheese or shredded cheddar at the end.
Cooking Tips
Use medium heat when browning the beef so it cooks evenly without drying out. Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks to help it brown properly and absorb seasoning better.
Draining excess grease can help keep the final dish lighter, especially if you’re adding cheese later. Letting the beef rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to settle and improves texture.
Serving Suggestions
This ground beef recipe is incredibly versatile. Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a complete meal. It also works well as a filling for tacos, wraps, stuffed peppers, or sandwiches. You can even use leftovers to top salads or baked potatoes for an easy next-day meal.
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Storage and Reheating
Store leftover ground beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist. This recipe also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep or busy weeks.
Make-It-Your-Own Tips
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or zucchini to stretch the recipe and add more texture. You can also swap seasonings based on what you enjoy most. This ground beef recipe is meant to be flexible, reliable, and easy to adapt to your taste.
Tap through for the complete recipe and turn ground turkey into an easy, go-to meal you’ll use again and again.
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