When you have 1 pound of ground beef on hand, feeding a family of five might seem like a challenge. However, with a little creativity, you can craft a variety of delicious and satisfying meals that everyone will enjoy. Ground beef is incredibly versatile and can be used in cuisines from all around the world, ensuring that you can cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
In this article, we’ll explore eleven delightful dishes that go beyond the typical hamburger casserole. Each recipe is designed to stretch that single pound of ground beef while delivering on flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty, spicy, or comfortingly familiar, these recipes have got you covered.
1. Classic Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless classic that never fails to please. With 1 pound of ground beef, you can create a rich and hearty sauce to serve over a generous mound of spaghetti. Start by browning the beef in a pan, then add a finely chopped onion and two cloves of garlic. Once the onion is translucent, pour in a can of crushed tomatoes, a tablespoon of tomato paste, and a splash of red wine for depth of flavor.
Season the sauce with a teaspoon of dried oregano, a teaspoon of dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve over cooked spaghetti and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A side of garlic bread and a simple green salad complete the meal, ensuring everyone is satisfied.
2. Hearty Beef Chili
Chili is a comforting and filling dish perfect for feeding a crowd. Start by browning your ground beef in a large pot. Add an onion, a green bell pepper, and two cloves of garlic, all finely chopped, and cook until the vegetables are softened. Stir in a can of diced tomatoes, a can of kidney beans, and a can of black beans, all drained and rinsed.
For seasoning, use a tablespoon of chili powder, a teaspoon of cumin, a teaspoon of smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Let the chili simmer for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to deepen and the sauce to thicken. Serve with cornbread or over a bowl of rice for a complete meal that’s sure to warm everyone up.
3. Ground Beef Tacos
Tacos are a fun and interactive meal that everyone can enjoy customizing to their liking. Brown 1 pound of ground beef in a skillet and drain any excess fat. Add a packet of taco seasoning or make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir in 2/3 cup of water and let it simmer until the sauce thickens.
Warm taco shells or soft tortillas and set up a taco bar with toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, and guacamole. This allows each person to build their own taco, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
4. Beef-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers make for a colorful and nutritious meal that’s both filling and delicious. Cut the tops off five bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. In a skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef with a chopped onion and a cup of cooked rice. Stir in a can of diced tomatoes, a teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste.
Spoon the beef mixture into the bell peppers and place them in a baking dish. Top each pepper with shredded mozzarella cheese and cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
5. Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting dish that combines savory meat with creamy mashed potatoes. Begin by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a skillet, then add a chopped onion, a cup of diced carrots, and a cup of peas. Cook until the vegetables are tender. Stir in a tablespoon of flour and cook for another minute.
Add 1 cup of beef broth and a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, allowing the mixture to thicken. Spread the beef mixture in the bottom of a baking dish and top with a layer of mashed potatoes. Use a fork to create peaks in the potatoes, which will brown nicely in the oven. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors.
6. Beef Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A stir-fry is a quick and easy way to turn 1 pound of ground beef into a flavorful meal. Start by browning the beef in a large skillet or wok. Remove the beef and set aside, then add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Stir-fry a mix of vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas until just tender.
Return the beef to the skillet and add a sauce made from 1/4 cup of soy sauce, a tablespoon of hoisin sauce, a teaspoon of sesame oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Toss everything together and cook until heated through. Serve over steamed rice or noodles and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a complete and satisfying meal.
7. Meatball Subs
Meatball subs are a delightful handheld meal that’s perfect for a casual dinner. To make the meatballs, combine 1 pound of ground beef with 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, a beaten egg, a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese, and a clove of minced garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
Form the mixture into small meatballs and bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. While the meatballs are baking, warm a jar of marinara sauce. Place the cooked meatballs in the sauce and simmer for a few minutes. Serve the meatballs in toasted sub rolls, topped with additional sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Broil for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Beef and Bean Enchiladas
Enchiladas are a flavorful way to enjoy ground beef, and they’re easy to prepare in advance. Start by browning 1 pound of ground beef with a chopped onion and a clove of garlic. Add a can of black beans, drained and rinsed, and season with a packet of taco seasoning.
Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Fill corn tortillas with the beef mixture and roll them up, placing them seam side down in the dish. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with sour cream and chopped cilantro.
9. Korean Beef Bowls
Korean beef bowls are a sweet and savory dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. In a skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat and add a sauce made from 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, a tablespoon of sesame oil, and a teaspoon of grated ginger.
Cook for a few more minutes until the beef is well coated in the sauce. Serve the beef over steamed rice and top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. For added flavor and nutrition, include a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables such as bok choy or snow peas.
10. Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Stuffed zucchini boats are a healthy and delicious way to use ground beef. Halve five zucchinis lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to create a well for the stuffing. In a skillet, brown 1 pound of ground beef with a chopped onion and a clove of garlic. Add a cup of diced tomatoes and season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
Spoon the beef mixture into the zucchini halves and place them in a baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly. Serve with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
11. Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ground beef stroganoff is a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Begin by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a skillet. Add a chopped onion and a cup of sliced mushrooms, cooking until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in a tablespoon of flour and cook for another minute before adding 1 cup of beef broth and a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, then stir in half a cup of sour cream. Serve the stroganoff over egg noodles and garnish with chopped parsley for a delicious and satisfying meal.