5 Creative Ground Beef Recipes Beyond Burgers, Tacos, or Meatballs

Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes beyond the usual burgers, tacos, or meatballs. In this recipe collection, we’ll explore five creative ways to use ground beef to create delicious and satisfying meals. From stuffed peppers to shepherd’s pie, these recipes are sure to become family favorites.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess grease.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff the bell peppers with the beef mixture and place them in the prepared baking dish.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
7. Remove the foil, sprinkle the peppers with shredded cheese, and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Shepherd’s Pie

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess grease.
3. Add the carrots, peas, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Spread the beef mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Top the beef mixture with mashed potatoes, spreading them out evenly.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the mashed potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the shepherd’s pie is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

About the Main Ingredients

Ground Beef

Ground beef is a versatile and flavorful protein that works well in a variety of dishes. It’s a good source of protein, iron, and B vitamins.

Bell Peppers

Bell peppers add color, flavor, and nutrients to the stuffed pepper dish. They’re rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants.

Tomatoes

Diced tomatoes and tomato paste add richness and acidity to both dishes. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene.

Carrots and Peas

Carrots and peas add sweetness and texture to the shepherd’s pie. They’re also rich in vitamins and minerals.

These creative ground beef recipes are a great way to enjoy the flavors of comfort food in new and exciting ways. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, these recipes are sure to satisfy.