Cheap Dinner Ideas With Ground Beef

Make dinner and affordable with this delicious list of 71 cheap dinner ideas with ground beef. Ground beef does not need to be boring!

Close up of a loaded sloppy joe sandwich, sitting next to chips on a plate.

Original post: March 2020 | Updated: March 2024

Ground beef as a standalone ingredient might seem boring, but with a little help from other ingredients it can easily be transformed into a cheap and delicious meal. I have always been a huge fan of this versatile protein and it has been fun getting creative with it.

One of my favorite things about it, aside from it’s delicious flavor, is its affordability! There are so many filling, hearty, delicious ground beef recipes that are also affordable and easy to make. As beef prices continue to rise, stick to your food budget by making one of the recipes below for those busy weeknights!

Enjoy this collection of easy, delicious recipes that are sure to satisfy the bellies around your table tonight! The below compilation includes recipes from these categories:

Ground beef casseroles are a convenient and versatile choice for using this meat. Combine the ground meat with vegetables, pasta or rice, for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Ground beef is the perfect main ingredient for making delicious and budget-friendly burgers. Customize the patties with spices, herbs and toppings of your choice. Whether grilled or pan-fried, burgers are a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner option.
Mexican cuisine offers a wide range of options to use ground beef, such as tacos, enchiladas or burritos. Season the meat with taco seasoning or other Mexican spices for a flavorful and fun twist. Mexican beef dishes are not only tasty but also cost-effective.
Ground beef is a key ingredient in making a hearty and filling chili recipe. Combine it with beans, tomatoes and spices for pure comfort food! It’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in, and leftovers often taste even better the next day.
Ground beef adds richness to pasta dishes such as spaghetti, beef stroganoff or lasagna. The meat pairs well with a variety of pasta shapes and sauces, creating satisfying and economical meals the whole family will love.
Meatloaf is one of those comfort food classics that can be made using ground beef. Mix it with breadcrumbs, eggs and seasonings, then bake it to perfection. Meatloaf is not only delicious for dinner but can also make tasty sandwiches for lunches.
Ground beef sandwiches offer a quick and easy meal option. Sloppy Joes feature seasoned ground beef served on a bun. Other options include beef and cheese sliders or Philly cheesesteak sandwiches.
Ground beef can be shaped into meatballs and cooked in various ways, such as in tomato sauce, on skewers or in soups. Meatballs are versatile and can be served as appetizers, with pasta or in a sub sandwich.
Create your own budget-friendly pizza using ground beef as a topping. Combine it with other ingredients like melty cheese, vegetables or your favorite sauce for a homemade pizza that is both tasty and affordable.
Ground beef adds protein and flavor to soups. Whether in a classic beef and vegetable soup or a hearty minestrone, this juicy meat enhances the overall richness of the dish. It is an excellent option for comforting and filling easy dinners.
Explore other main dishes that incorporate ground beef, such as stuffed green peppers, beef stir-fry or beef and vegetable skewers. This category allows for creativity and diversity when preparing satisfying meals using this protein-rich ingredient.

Scoop of tater tot hotdish being removed from a baking pan with a large serving spoon.

Why Does Ground Beef Turn Brown

Ground beef can turn brown when it has been exposed to air for an extended period of time, whether in the fridge or at room temperature. This does not necessarily mean the meat has gone bad, but can reduce the shelf life. Store ground beef properly in the fridge in airtight containers to reduce air exposure.

Best Way To Store Ground Beef

Store ground beef in the refrigerator in an airtight container for best results. For longer storage, freeze it in portioned packages, removing as much air as possible to maintain its quality and prevent freezer burn.

Can Ground Beef Be Refrozen

Ground beef can be refrozen if it has been frozen once and thawed in the fridge. It is not recommended to do this more than one time.

Best Hamburger Meat for Burgers

The best ground beef to use when making burgers is 80/20 or 90/10 ground chuck, which is 80% lean meat and 20% fat. The more fat, the more flavorful and juicy the end result will be.

Best Ground Beef for Tacos

80/20 or 90/10 ground chuck is best when making tacos. The more fat, the more flavorful and juicy the end result will be.

How To Make Ground Beef Taste Better

Flavor in any recipe is important, but what do you do if you find yourself with a bland dish that has already been cooked? Check out this post for some tips about how to enhance the flavor in any type of food or dish!

Ground Beef and Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipes

Simplify dinner tonight! Create an easy, affordable and delicious meal using two hearty main ingredients. Click over for a handful of ground beef and cream of mushroom soup recipes!