Easy Dinner Recipes with Ground Beef in 30 Minutes!

Name: Easy Dinner Recipes with Ground Beef in 30 Minutes!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 cup beef broth; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups cooked pasta; 1 cup shredded cheese

June 7, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

We all know that weeknights can get a little hectic, right? Between work, school, and everything in between, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when it comes to dinner time. That’s why I’m so excited to share this recipe for easy dinner with ground beef! Seriously, it’s a lifesaver! Not only is it quick to whip up, but it’s also packed with flavor and comforting goodness.

easy dinner recipes with ground beef - detail 1

What I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand, and it still turns out delicious. Plus, it all comes together in one skillet, which means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying a cozy meal with loved ones. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep this one in your back pocket for those busy evenings when you need something satisfying and scrumptious without all the fuss!

Ingredients List

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful easy dinner with ground beef:

1 pound ground beef: This is the star of the show! Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, but feel free to go for a bit more fat for extra flavor.
1 onion, chopped: This will add a sweet and savory base to your dish. Just chop it up nice and small so it cooks evenly!
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must for that aromatic kick! Mince it finely so it blends perfectly into the mix.
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz): These bring a juicy tanginess that balances the richness of the beef. You can use any brand you like!
1 cup beef broth: This adds depth to your dish. You could also use chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand.
1 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance all those lovely flavors. Adjust to your taste later!
1 teaspoon pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a nice little kick.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This is where the magic happens—adds that lovely Italian flair to your meal!
2 cups cooked pasta: Any pasta you fancy will work here! I love using penne or rotini for a fun bite-size experience.
1 cup shredded cheese: Go for your favorite cheese—cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend work wonderfully here. It’s all about that gooey goodness!

How to Prepare Instructions

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking! This part is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly everything comes together. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

First things first, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add your pound of ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up as it cooks. You’ll want to let it brown nicely—this is where all that amazing flavor comes from! Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until it’s no longer pink. Trust me, don’t rush this step; well-browned beef makes all the difference!

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Once the beef is browned, it’s time to add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Toss them right into the skillet with the beef. You’ll want to cook this mixture for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. The goal here is to soften the onion until it’s translucent and fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when the whole kitchen smells heavenly—yum!

Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Next up, it’s time to bring in the rest of the crew! Add that can of diced tomatoes (with all the juice), the cup of beef broth, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir to combine. Bring this glorious mixture to a simmer—this should take just a couple of minutes. Once it’s bubbling gently, let it cook for about 10 minutes. This will allow all those flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 4: Mix in the Pasta

Now it’s time to add your star ingredient: the cooked pasta! Stir in those 2 cups of pasta, making sure it gets coated well with the sauce. This is where it all comes together! Give it a gentle toss for about a minute or two so everything is nicely mixed and heated through. It should look warm and inviting at this point, and your belly will start to rumble!

Step 5: Top with Cheese

Finally, sprinkle your shredded cheese all over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes to let the cheese melt perfectly. You want it all gooey and delicious! Once it’s melted, remove the lid and get ready to serve up a warm, comforting dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight!
One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, meaning less mess and fewer dishes to wash. Yes, please!
Flavor Packed: The combination of beef, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning creates a deliciously rich flavor that everyone will love.
Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or swapping out the cheese. The possibilities are endless!
Comforting and Satisfying: The hearty blend of beef, pasta, and melty cheese makes for a cozy meal that warms the soul.
Kid-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Tips for Success

To help you nail this easy dinner with ground beef, I’ve got some handy tips to ensure everything goes smoothly. Let’s make sure you avoid any common pitfalls!

Don’t Overcook the Beef: It’s tempting to just keep cooking the beef, but overcooking can make it tough. Aim for that perfect brown color and remember, it’ll continue cooking a bit after you take it off the heat.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook your pasta just until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. This prevents it from getting mushy when you mix it with the sauce!
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to seasoning. Taste the mixture before serving and feel free to add a pinch more salt or pepper if you think it needs it.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and onions instead of pre-packaged. It makes a big difference in flavor! And if you have fresh herbs like basil or parsley, toss some in right before serving for a fresh kick.
Let It Simmer: Don’t rush the simmering step! Letting it bubble for those 10 minutes allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Mix Well: When you add the cooked pasta, make sure to stir it well so that every piece is coated in that delicious sauce. No one wants a dry bite, right?

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be all set to whip up a fantastic meal that’s sure to impress! Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values for one serving of this delightful easy dinner with ground beef. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements:

Calories: 400
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

This meal is not only filling and comforting but also a balanced option for dinner, thanks to the combination of protein from the beef and carbohydrates from the pasta. Enjoy this hearty dish without any guilt!

FAQ Section

Got questions? No problem! Here are some common queries I get about this easy dinner with ground beef, along with my answers to help you out:

Can I store leftovers?

Absolutely! If you have any leftovers, just let them cool down and then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

What can I substitute for ground beef?

If you want to switch things up, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. You could even try a plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times slightly based on what you choose!

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, yes, yes! Feel free to toss in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach when you add the onion and garlic. They’ll add extra nutrients and color to your dish. Just keep in mind that they might need a few extra minutes to cook down.

What type of cheese works best?

You can use any cheese you love! Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, but you could also try pepper jack for a little spice or a blend of cheeses for extra flavor. The cheesier, the better, right?

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve, mix them together, and top with cheese. It’ll save you time on busy nights!

What if my sauce is too thick?

If you find that your sauce is thicker than you’d like, no worries! Just add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up a bit. Stir well and let it simmer for another minute to combine.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Hopefully, these FAQs help you feel more confident as you whip up this delicious easy dinner with ground beef. If you have any more questions, just drop me a message! Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious easy dinner with ground beef, let’s talk about how to make your meal even more delightful! Here are a few suggestions to serve alongside your hearty dish:

Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette is the perfect way to balance the richness of the beef and cheese. Plus, it adds a refreshing crunch!
Garlic Bread: Who can resist warm, buttery garlic bread? It’s great for soaking up any leftover sauce from your skillet, and it makes for a comforting side that everyone loves.
Steamed Veggies: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots add a splash of color and nutrition to your plate. Just a little sprinkle of salt and pepper brings out their natural flavors!
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add a nice crunch and a bit of zing to your meal. It’s a great contrast to the warmth of the pasta and beef dish.
Fruit Salad: For a sweet finish, consider serving a light fruit salad. Fresh berries, melon, and citrus not only taste amazing but also provide a lovely, refreshing contrast to your savory main dish.

Feel free to mix and match these sides based on what you and your family enjoy! The goal is to create a well-rounded meal that satisfies everyone. Enjoy your cozy dinner time!

You might also like it

Takeout Fried Rice: 7 Savory Steps to Homemade Bliss

Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole: A Comforting Delight

Brown Sugar Potatoes: 5 Simple Steps to Delightful Flavor

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.