I Cooked Once And Ate Well All Week With 29 Ground Beef Recipes

ByMandy

Making one big cooking effort can save a lot of time during the week, and these 29 ground beef recipes show how well that works. They’re planned so the same effort in the kitchen turns into different meals without feeling repetitive. The variety keeps things interesting, and the prep is done in one go.

Close-up of a copycat smash burger with lettuce, tomato, and a thick beef patty on a sesame seed bun.
Copycat Smash Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spaghetti Bolognese

A plate of spaghetti topped with meat sauce and a fresh basil leaf, accompanied by a fork on the side.
Spaghetti Bolognese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Leftovers never get boring with this comforting option. Spaghetti Bolognese transforms ground beef into something hearty and filling for any night. It’s ideal because it’s easy to reheat, and the flavors get even better the next day. Whether for lunch or dinner, it’s something everyone wants to revisit.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

Copycat Big Mac Salad

Close-up of a salad featuring ground beef, sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and diced onions, topped with a creamy dressing.
Copycat Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tired of regular salads? Turn it into something exciting like a Copycat Big Mac Salad that feels fresh and different. It’s a clever way to enjoy the taste of a popular burger without needing a bun. You’ll want to make a big batch because it keeps well for days.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

A close-up of Swedish meatballs covered in a creamy sauce, piled in a wooden bowl.
Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dinner becomes more exciting with these little bites. Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat) are packed with comfort and work perfectly over noodles or rice. They warm up beautifully, meaning you’ll always look forward to leftovers. They’re so versatile, you can pair them with almost anything.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

Crunchwrap Supreme

Three folded tortillas filled with seasoned ground meat, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese.
Crunchwrap Supreme. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Snacking or meals get an upgrade with a homemade version of Crunchwrap Supreme. It’s perfect for days when you’re craving something handheld and mess-free. Wraps like this hold up well, and a quick toast brings it all back. It’s a fun and practical twist for meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

Cheeseburger Soup

A pot of cheesy potato and meat stew garnished with chopped parsley and crispy bacon.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Soup might not be the first thing you think of, but this gets your attention. Cheeseburger Soup takes the classic burger flavors and makes them spoonable. It’s easy to portion for the week and heats up quickly for quick lunches. It’s a comforting solution that’s hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Pizza Casserole

A close-up of a baked pasta dish with melted cheese, pepperoni slices, and herbs, showing a serving being lifted, revealing gooey cheese strands.
Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For pizza lovers, this is a weeknight win. Pizza Casserole offers the same irresistible flavors without needing a crust. It’s a dish that works well as leftovers because it’s just as enjoyable reheated. Make it once, and you’ve got dinner covered for several days.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Beef Tacos

Three beef tacos filled with ground meat, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, and sliced red onions.
Beef Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving tacos every day? Beef Tacos make that dream possible while being simple to prepare ahead of time. Whether in soft shells or hard, they hold up for quick heat-and-eat meals. It’s the kind of meal that doesn’t feel like a repeat, even if you enjoy it multiple days.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tacos

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

A spoonful of stuffed pepper casserole with ground meat, red and green bell peppers, cheese, and rice, garnished with herbs.
Stuffed Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sometimes you want the flavors of stuffed peppers without the hassle. Stuffed Pepper Casserole provides that shortcut while keeping all the goodness. Since it’s made in one dish, it’s great for batch cooking and dividing portions for later. It’s hearty, warm, and a dependable meal for the week.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

A close-up of a savory meatloaf slice topped with a glossy sauce. The hearty meatloaf reveals visible chunks of vegetables like carrots and celery.
Easy Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you need comfort food for the week, this has you covered. Easy Meatloaf Recipe offers slices versatile enough for meals or sandwiches. Keeping it moist and flavorful makes it a standout choice for reheating. Each bite feels like home, no matter how you serve it later.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Baked Beef Tacos

Two tacos with beef, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro on a white plate.
Baked Beef Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Forget about soggy tacos during the week. Baked Beef Tacos keep their crunch while being loaded with flavor. They’re quick to pull together and just as fast to reheat when you’re pressed for time. Having these ready makes dinner convenient and just as enjoyable each time.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

Easy Tater Tot Casserole

A serving of tater tot casserole on a spoon.
Easy Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A week of meals feels lighter with a bit of fun. Easy Tater Tot Casserole layers everything you love and is easy to portion out. The crispy topping keeps it interesting, even after a few days in the fridge. It’s a comforting option that doesn’t feel repetitive.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole

Zucchini Boats

Four zucchini boats topped with ground meat, tomato sauce, melted cheese, and chopped parsley on a white plate.
Zucchini Boats. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Meals can be both creative and efficient. Zucchini Boats allow you to enjoy a lighter take without skimping on filling. They’re easy to line up in a dish and bake into perfectly portioned meals for busy days. This one feels a bit different while still being grounded in flavor.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Boats

Cowboy Casserole

Close-up of a cowboy casserole in a white dish, showing layers of ground meat and vegetables topped with a golden-brown mashed potato crust, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cowboy Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re a fan of casseroles, this might be your favorite. Cowboy Casserole mixes ground beef with hearty layers that hold up all week. It’s one of those meals where leftovers don’t feel like an afterthought but a treat. Having it ready always makes weekday meals less stressful.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Casserole

Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Three baked sweet potatoes topped with minced meat, melted cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions on a white plate.
Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Regular sloppy joes get a twist with this idea. Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes switch up the base without losing the charm of the original. The combination brings new textures and flavors, making it a weekly standout. Packed and stored well, it’s one you’ll revisit with excitement.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Close-up of a Beef Enchilada Tortellini dish topped with ground meat, corn, black beans, and chopped green onions.
Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Combining pasta night and south-of-the-border flavors is a smart move. Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini keeps things interesting while being simple to store for the week. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make extra of because it’s hard to get tired of it. There’s a lot to enjoy, whether for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Taco Salad

A taco salad served in an edible tortilla bowl, topped with ground meat, lettuce, black beans, diced tomatoes, avocado, and shredded cheese.
Taco Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Turning ground beef into something fresh just got easier. Taco Salad makes for a quick meal that works great for lunches when you want a break from heavy dishes. It stores well without losing flavor, and you can customize it each time. This makes eating healthy feel doable and still exciting.
Get the Recipe: Taco Salad

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Few meals are as famous for leftovers as this one. Homemade Lasagna stacks up rich layers that always taste better the next day. One pan can get you through several meals, making it perfect for busy weeks. Whether you eat it straight or pair it with sides, it’s always a dependable option.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Cattle Drive Casserole

A slice of cheesy lasagna being lifted from a baking dish, topped with melted cheese and parsley.
Cattle Drive Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cozy, filling, and ready to be reheated, this is perfect for busy schedules. Cattle Drive Casserole is one of those meals that feels hearty every time you eat it. Feeding a family or prepping for yourself, the portions are perfect for planning ahead. It’s the kind of meal that stays enjoyable all week.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate.
Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite-sized and easy to prepare, these are a winning option. Mini Tacos are perfect for weekday snacking or quick meals on the go. They reheat beautifully, keeping that handheld convenience intact. Whether you want two or ten, they hold up to whatever pace your week demands.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

Spaghetti Casserole

A serving of cheesy baked spaghetti is being lifted with a utensil. The dish is topped with melted cheese and garnished with herbs.
Spaghetti Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A twist on a classic, this combines the best of baked pasta. Spaghetti Casserole is hearty, easy to store, and perfect for reheating. It serves as a great option for families or individuals needing pre-planned meals. You won’t miss regular spaghetti with this variation.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Taco Pasta Salad

A bowl of fusilli pasta mixed with ground beef, black beans, chopped tomatoes, and herbs, garnished with lime wedges.
Taco Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Taco night and pasta salad meet right here for a fun solution. Taco Pasta Salad is an excellent way to mix up lunch or dinner without extra effort. Cold leftovers work just as well, so it’s ideal for meal prep. This is a lighter approach while still being grounded in familiar flavors.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Three slices of glazed meatloaf are arranged on a plate next to a bowl of brown sauce.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

It’s hard to beat homecooked-style meals during busy weeks. Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe brings those comforting flavors straight into your kitchen. Leftovers heat up perfectly, keeping their moist and tender texture intact. It’s one you could keep making week after week without getting bored.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Taco Pizza

A close-up of a loaded flatbread pizza topped with avocado slices, diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, seasoned meat, black beans, and a drizzle of creamy sauce.
Taco Pizza. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Two favorites come together for something truly convenient. Taco Pizza is an exciting way to repurpose ground beef into a new form. It’s great for making ahead, as it stays crispy while delivering bold flavors. Each slice feels like a mix-up from traditional tacos or pizzas.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pizza

Beef Chili

Two bowls of chili with kidney beans, meat, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and cilantro. A black spoon in one bowl. Additional chili flakes in a small dish nearby.
Beef Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Big batches of this are perfect when planning for the week ahead. Beef Chili is great because it works alone or as a base for other meals. The flavors deepen as it rests, making each day you reheat it better than the last. It’s consistently reliable for lunches, dinners, or anything in between.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

A platter of nachos topped with ground meat, melted cheese, sliced jalapeños, cherry tomatoes, black beans, red onions, cilantro, and dollops of sour cream. Lime wedges are on the side.
Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Nachos for a meal? Absolutely, when you’re referring to Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos that work for a crowd or snacks that last. They’re simple to reheat and keep their crunch better than expected. Whether it’s quick comfort or an easy party solution, this always stands out.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

Big Mac Crunchwrap

Close-up of a stack of folded tortillas filled with beef, melted cheese, lettuce, and onions on a white plate.
Big Mac Crunchwrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A fast food-inspired meal doesn’t have to mean fast food. Big Mac Crunchwrap takes a familiar favorite and gives it a homemade touch that’s great for leftovers. Its layered format stays intact for the week, especially with a quick re-toast. All the flavors come through fresh every time.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce.
Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Burgers can be more than the usual with this twist. Korean Burgers bring global flavors into everyday meals while being just as convenient to prep. The patties reheat well without losing moisture, making them awesome for quick weekday lunches. They feel fresh without feeling complicated.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Big Mac Pinwheels

Close-up of puff pastry rounds topped with ground meat, shredded lettuce, sesame seeds, and a creamy sauce, arranged on parchment paper.
Big Mac Pinwheels. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Unique yet simple, this works for both snacks and meals. Big Mac Pinwheels pack all the flavors of the classic sandwich into a roll-up form. They’re perfect for prepping ahead and slicing up whenever hunger strikes. Their portability makes them a useful addition to busy schedules.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Pinwheels

Copycat Smash Burger

Close-up of a copycat smash burger with lettuce, tomato, and a thick beef patty on a sesame seed bun.
Copycat Smash Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Achieving restaurant-style bites is easier with this one. Copycat Smash Burger ensures you have juicy, crispy-edged patties to enjoy throughout the week. They hold up whether you want a sandwich or prefer to pair with your favorite side. This is how burgers get meal-prep-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

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