Forget the Drive-Thru: 15 Homemade Ground Beef Recipes That Taste Better (and Cost Less)

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Forget the Drive-Thru: 15 Homemade Ground Beef Recipes That Taste Better (and Cost Less)

Finding affordable meals that don’t skimp on taste can be a challenge, but these 15 ground beef recipes hit the mark. They offer a range of options that are both easy to make and kind to your wallet. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, these recipes help you get the most out of your ground beef. Enjoy delicious home-cooked meals without the stress or high costs. Cooking has never been more rewarding.

A white rectangular plate with several meatballs covered in tomato sauce, garnished with chopped basil.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Pizza Casserole

Pizza Casserole in two serving dishes.
Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Combine the beloved flavors of pizza into one comforting dish with Pizza Casserole. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd without spending a lot of money. It’s an enjoyable and convenient way to satisfy pizza cravings, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings. Enjoy the taste of pizza in a new and exciting form.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines ground beef with pasta and beans for a filling meal. This soup is perfect for chilly days and is easy to prepare, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. Enjoy a warm bowl of homemade goodness.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

A plate of cooked ground beef mixed with diced vegetables and garnished with lime wedges and chopped herbs. A red striped cloth is placed beside the plate.
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This recipe brings a taste of Mexico to your kitchen with its rich, flavorful ground beef. Carne Molida is incredibly versatile, making it an ideal pairing with rice, tortillas, or your favorite vegetables. It’s a budget-friendly option that is both simple to prepare and sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine without leaving your home.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A plate of Salisbury steak with gravy on mashed potatoes, and a side of peas on a white square dish. The meal is set on a white wooden table beside silver cutlery and a floral napkin.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Diner Style Salisbury Steak offers a nostalgic and comforting dining experience reminiscent of classic American diners. This hearty dish features juicy ground beef patties smothered in a rich, savory gravy, providing a satisfying meal that doesn’t break the bank. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner that feels indulgent yet is easy to prepare. Enjoy a taste of home-cooked comfort with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich on a white plate with chips.
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Bring the beloved taste of a classic diner favorite to your home with the Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. These sandwiches are easy to make and perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. They capture the unique flavor and texture of the original, making them a great choice for an affordable and delicious lunch or dinner. Enjoy the simplicity and nostalgia of this iconic dish.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger soup in two serving bowls.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Cheeseburger Soup brings all the deliciousness of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, comforting bowl of soup. This hearty dish is ideal for chilly days and is simple to prepare, making it a go-to for a quick and satisfying meal. It’s an affordable way to enjoy a rich and flavorful soup that everyone at the table will love. Warm up with this perfect twist on a favorite comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Kefta Beef Kabobs

Kefta Beef Kabobs stacked on a white platter.
Kefta Beef Kabobs. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Experience a taste of the Mediterranean with Kefta Beef Kabobs. These flavorful kabobs are perfect for grilling and add a unique twist to any meal. They are a budget-friendly option that brings a bit of international flair to your dinner table. Ideal for family meals or entertaining guests, these kabobs are sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Beef Kabobs

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Mushrooms

Four stuffed mushrooms on a white plate.
Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Mushrooms offer a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, combining the savory flavors of a cheesesteak with the earthiness of mushrooms. This dish is perfect for a quick appetizer or a light dinner that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare. It’s an affordable way to enjoy the rich taste of a Philly cheesesteak without the bread. Ideal for parties or a fun family meal.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Mushrooms

Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

A plate of empanadas on a slate.
Air Fryer Beef Empanadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Beef Empanadas are a modern take on a classic favorite, offering a healthier way to enjoy this tasty dish. These empanadas are perfect for a snack or a light meal, and the air fryer makes them crispy without the need for excess oil. They are a cost-effective and easy-to-make option that everyone will love. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and flavorful filling of homemade empanadas.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

Shepherd’s Pie Bites

Shepherd's Pie Bites on a black platter.
Shepherd’s Pie Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Shepherd’s Pie Bites offer a fun and convenient way to enjoy the classic flavors of shepherd’s pie. These bite-sized treats are perfect for appetizers or a quick meal, providing all the hearty goodness of the traditional dish in a smaller package. They are an affordable and easy-to-make option that brings comfort food to a new level. Ideal for parties or a cozy family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Shepherd’s Pie Bites

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

A white rectangular plate with several meatballs covered in tomato sauce, garnished with chopped basil.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

With Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs, you can enjoy a delicious and convenient meal that’s perfect for busy days. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming simple ingredients into tender meatballs that are packed with flavor. This recipe is an excellent way to feed the whole family without spending too much time in the kitchen. It’s a cost-effective option that delivers a home-cooked taste.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Smoked Meatballs

Smoked meatballs in a dish with grilled bread.
Smoked Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a smoky twist to your meal with Smoked Meatballs. These flavorful meatballs are perfect for a main dish or a hearty appetizer, offering a unique take on a classic favorite. They are an affordable and easy-to-make option that brings a rich, smoky flavor to your table. Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Meatballs

Korean Beef Bowl

A top-down shot of Korean Beef Bowl with chopsticks and garlic.
Korean Beef Bowl. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For a quick and flavorful meal, try the Korean Beef Bowl. This dish combines ground beef with a mix of sweet and savory flavors, making it a delightful option for a weeknight dinner. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that doesn’t require a lot of time or money, but delivers big on taste. Enjoy a delicious bowl of comfort with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Korean Beef Bowl

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Two servings of Cowboy Cornbread Casserole on plates.
Cowboy Cornbread Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combine the rich flavors of ground beef and cornbread in the Cowboy Cornbread Casserole. This dish is perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that doesn’t require a lot of time or money, but delivers on taste and comfort. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Ground Beef and Broccoli

A plate of beef and broccoli with chopsticks.
Ground Beef and Broccoli. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For a healthier twist on takeout, try Ground Beef and Broccoli. This dish is quick to prepare and offers a flavorful combination that is both nutritious and satisfying. It’s a cost-effective meal that allows you to enjoy the taste of your favorite restaurant dish at home. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Broccoli

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