Cache & Cook

Easy recipes with ground beef

Got ground beef and not sure what to make? Here are 8 easy dinners you can cook tonight. Each one keeps to everyday ingredients and a single skillet or sheet pan where possible, with rough prep and cook times so you can pick by how much time you have. Prefer to cook with exactly what's on your shelf? Tell Cache & Cook what you have and it drafts a recipe free.

Common questions

Can I substitute ground beef with other meats in recipes?
Yes, ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground lamb work well as substitutes, though ground turkey and chicken are leaner and may need added fat or sauce for moisture. Ground pork is also a good option and provides similar texture and richness to beef.
How long does cooked ground beef last in the refrigerator?
Cooked ground beef will keep safely in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container, or frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
What are some quick sides to serve with ground beef dishes?
Simple sides like rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad pair well with most ground beef recipes and take 15-30 minutes to prepare.
How can I make ground beef recipes healthier?
Use leaner ground beef (93/7 or 96/4), add extra vegetables to stretch the meat further, skip browning in oil by using a non-stick pan, and drain excess fat after cooking.
What's the fastest way to thaw frozen ground beef?
Thaw ground beef in the refrigerator overnight, or use the cold water method by placing the sealed package in cold water for 30 minutes to 1 hour, changing the water every 15 minutes.