When it comes to dinner ideas that we’re looking for in a pinch, chicken is always the go-to option. However, sometimes we’re hunting for something a little more filling and flavorful – and that’s where ground beef steps in. From hearty stews to cheesy casseroles, there are a dozen different ways to prepare ground beef for dinnertime. And if you dig deep into Grandma’s recipe box, you will be happily surprised at some of her favorite ground beef recipes that range from old-school options to tried-and-true standbys like chili with extra beans. Here are 18 recipes that are some of Grandma’s go-to ideas for whipping up weeknight dinners or Sunday suppers with ground beef.
Related: 94 Easy Ground Beef Recipes That Make Dinner A Snap
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Who can resist a dish that has this kind of name? If you love spaghetti, casserole, and layers of meat and cheese, then this is the recipe for you.
Oklahoma Onion Burgers
Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer
What’s the best sidekick to ground beef? If you said “onions,” then this is the recipe you’ll want to make on repeat. Grilling season just got a whole lot tastier.
Three-Bean Beef Chili
Greg DuPree, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Christine Keely
If you love chili, then dig in. Just add extra beans for a rich, hearty, extra delicious meal.
Lasagna Soup
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Any chance we can get to enjoy lasagna, is always welcome. Easy, cheesy, meaty and layered together for the ultimate spoonful of comfort.
Beef Enchiladas
Stacy Allen; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall; Prop Stylist: Hannah Greenwood
Surprise the family with enchiladas on a weeknight. This recipe combines ground beef and veggies, chewy tortillas, rich enchilada sauce, and two types of gooey cheese.
Skillet Beef Enchiladas
VICTOR PROTASIO, FOOD STYLIST: RUTH BLACKBURN, PROP STYLIST: LYDIA PURSELL
Nothing is better than a one-skillet meal – especially when it involves meat, tortillas, and cheese.
Doritos Casserole
Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
The name says it all. Bring your family’s favorite gameday snack to the dinner table with this layered casserole. Hearty meat, gooey cheese, and your favorite chips come together for one tasty meal.
Stuffed Pattypan Squash With Beef And Feta
Let your squash shine in this recipe, which features a hearty filling made with a delicious beef and feta cheese combination.
Sloppy Joe Casserole With Dinner Rolls
Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Rishon Hanners, Prop Stylist Heather Chadduck
All you need is 30 minutes to recreate this weeknight wonder. There are so many flavors in this casserole (thanks to the cheese, relish, ketchup, and more) but the sweet buttery rolls on the top are the perfect finishing touch.
Sheet Pan Meatloaf
Jennifer Causey; Food Styling: Loren Wood; Prop Styling: Christine Keely
Everyone loves meatloaf. It’s comforting, meaty, and always reliable. Make it in a sheet pan and this recipe will be one of the most-requested in the home.
Instant Pot Spaghetti And Meatballs
Photography: Caitlin Bensel, Food Styling: Emily Nabors Hall
Spaghetti and meatballs is the Sunday supper we all dream about. This recipe is made in the Instant Pot so it’s now easier than ever,
Beef Tamale Pie
Pull out that trusty skillet and whip up a Southern favorite with layers of ground beef.
Sheet Pan Nachos
Greg DuPree
Let’s be honest, no one can resist nachos – and this recipe is a keeper. The ground beef adds an extra filling to make this a gameday appetizer or an easy weeknight dinner.
Husband’s Delight Casserole
Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Caleb Clarke
Call this casserole what you like, but it always makes everyone’s top 20 list. Creamy, saucy, cheesy, and hearty – this recipe is a true delight.
Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls
Greg DuPree; Food Stylist: Ali Ramee; Prop Stylist: Hannah Greenwood
Cabbage rolls? Yes, cabbage rolls. An old-time favorite that is always a good idea. Fill cabbage leaves with a mixture of meat, pork, and rice, and then drizzle with a Creole sauce for an extra kick.
Cheeseburger Pie
Antonis Achilleos
Pie for dinner? Always a good idea in our Southern hearts. This delightful pie is made with layers of ground beef and melty American cheese.
Baked Beans With Ground Beef
Photography: Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
Baked beans never ever disappoint. This sweet-and-savory dish features bacon and a heaping amount of cooked ground beef for the most unforgettable side (or main if that’s how you’re feeling).
Easy Beef And Broccoli Stir Fry
ANTONIS ACHILLEOS; PROP STYLING: KATHLEEN VARNER; FOOD STYLING: MAGGIE RUGGIERO
In less than 20 minutes, you can whip up this recipe that features ground chuck, rice, bell pepper, and soy sauce.The perfect meal when you’re looking for a fast dinner idea with lots of flavor.
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Read the original article on Southern Living.
