A pound of hamburger, or ground beef, is one of the most versatile ingredients you can have in your kitchen. It’s budget-friendly, easy to cook, and can be transformed into a wide variety of dishes that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing meals for the week, here are some delicious and simple recipes you can whip up with just a pound of hamburger.
Classic Spaghetti Bolognese
One of the most popular ways to use a pound of hamburger is to make a hearty Spaghetti Bolognese. Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic, then add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and a medley of Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. Simmer the sauce until it thickens and serve it over cooked spaghetti. This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.
Homemade Tacos
Taco night is always a favorite! Cook the ground beef with taco seasoning, and serve it in warm tortillas with your choice of toppings—lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, onions, and sour cream. You can also add a side of rice and beans to round out the meal. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat tortillas or lettuce wraps.
Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
A casserole is a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Start by browning the ground beef with onions and garlic. Add in some cooked pasta, tomato sauce, and your favorite veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. Mix everything together in a casserole dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake until bubbly. This dish is not only filling but also great for leftovers.
Hamburger Soup
For a lighter yet hearty option, consider making a hamburger soup. Brown the ground beef, then add in diced potatoes, carrots, celery, onions, and canned tomatoes. Pour in some beef broth, season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender. This soup is great for meal prepping and freezes well.
Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food that’s both quick and satisfying. Cook the ground beef with onions, then add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and mustard to create a sweet and tangy sauce. Serve the mixture on toasted buns for a delicious and messy treat. Pair with some coleslaw or potato chips for a complete meal.
Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are a colorful and nutritious way to enjoy ground beef. Mix the cooked hamburger with cooked rice, tomatoes, and spices. Cut the tops off bell peppers, remove the seeds, and stuff them with the beef mixture. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly. This dish is great for a dinner party or a special family meal.
Beef and Bean Chili
A pound of hamburger is all you need to create a warm, comforting pot of chili. Brown the beef, then add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, onions, and chili powder. Let it simmer until the flavors meld together. Serve with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal that’s perfect for cold days.
Meatballs
Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes. Mix the ground beef with breadcrumbs, an egg, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. Form into balls and bake or fry them.
Serve them with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or even as an appetizer with dipping sauce.
Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting dish that layers seasoned ground beef with vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes. Brown the hamburger and mix it with peas, carrots, and gravy.
Spread the mixture in a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes, and bake until golden brown.
This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Beef Tacos Salad
For a lighter option, try making a beef taco salad. Cook the ground beef with taco seasoning, then serve it over a bed of lettuce with toppings like black beans, corn, shredded cheese, and salsa. Add a dollop of sour cream and some crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
A pound of hamburger is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a variety of meals, from comforting casseroles to light salads. With these recipes, you can create delicious dishes that suit any occasion, ensuring that your meals are both flavorful and satisfying. Next time you have a pound of hamburger in your fridge, you’ll know exactly what to make!
Hamburger Stir-Fry
If you’re in the mood for something quick and healthy, a hamburger stir-fry is a fantastic option. Brown the ground beef and set it aside. In the same pan, stir-fry a mix of your favorite vegetables—like bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas—with garlic and ginger. Add the beef back in and toss everything with a soy sauce-based stir-fry sauce. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s ready in minutes.
Beefy Nachos
Perfect for a snack or casual meal, beefy nachos are always a crowd-pleaser. Cook the ground beef with taco seasoning, then spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the beef over the chips, add shredded cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Top with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, and guacamole. Serve with salsa for dipping.
Hamburger Pizza
Turn your pound of hamburger into a homemade pizza topping! Brown the beef and spread it over pizza dough, along with pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella, and any other toppings you like. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted. This is a fun way to make pizza night a little different and more filling.
Hamburger and Potato Skillet
For a one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and simple, try a hamburger and potato skillet.
Brown the ground beef and remove it from the pan. In the same skillet, cook diced potatoes until they are crispy and golden. Add the beef back in, along with some onions, bell peppers, and seasoning. Cook everything together until the vegetables are tender. This dish is hearty and perfect for a quick dinner.
Mini Meatloaves
Individual-sized meatloaves are a fun and easy way to enjoy a classic dish. Mix the ground beef with breadcrumbs, an egg, ketchup, and seasonings, then shape into mini loaves. Bake them in a muffin tin for perfectly portioned servings. These are great for meal prepping and can be served with mashed potatoes and green beans for a traditional meal.
Beef Stroganoff
Beef stroganoff is a rich and creamy dish that pairs perfectly with pasta or rice. Brown the ground beef and set it aside. In the same pan, sauté onions and mushrooms, then add beef broth and sour cream to create a creamy sauce. Stir the beef back in and serve over egg noodles. This dish is comforting and perfect for a chilly evening.
Hamburger Quesadillas
Quesadillas are quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Cook the ground beef with taco seasoning, then layer it between two tortillas with shredded cheese. Cook in a skillet until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. This is a great option for a quick lunch or dinner.
Stuffed Zucchini Boats
For a low-carb option, stuffed zucchini boats are a tasty way to enjoy ground beef. Hollow out zucchinis and fill them with a mixture of cooked hamburger, marinara sauce, and cheese. Bake until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted. This dish is both healthy and satisfying, perfect for a light dinner.
Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a comforting, old-fashioned dish that’s both hearty and delicious. Mix the cooked hamburger with cooked rice, onions, and spices. Blanch cabbage leaves, then stuff them with the beef mixture. Roll them up and place them in a baking dish with tomato sauce. Bake until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Hamburger Mac and Cheese
Combine two comfort food classics—hamburger and mac and cheese—for a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Cook the ground beef and set it aside. Prepare macaroni and cheese according to the package instructions or your favorite recipe. Stir the cooked hamburger into the mac and cheese for a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and filling. This is a great way to make a simple dish more substantial.
A pound of hamburger is like a blank canvas, ready to be transformed into a multitude of delicious dishes. Whether you’re craving something comforting, healthy, or indulgent, ground beef can be the star of your meal. From classic comfort foods to inventive new dishes, these recipes demonstrate just how versatile and essential this ingredient can be in your kitchen. So the next time you find yourself with a pound of hamburger, you’ll have plenty of ideas to turn it into a memorable meal.
