20 Easy One Pot Ground Beef Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Posted on April 7, 2025

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Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen on busy weeknights? Do you wish you had more time to focus on work, family, or yourself instead of slaving away over a hot stove? We’ve got the solution for you: one pot ground beef recipes! These easy and delicious meals are perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner that won’t leave you feeling drained.

In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering one pot ground beef recipes that are sure to become staples in your household. From hearty stews to flavorful pasta dishes, these recipes are all about simplicity and convenience. And the best part? They’re all made with just one pot! Whether you’re a busy parent or a college student looking for a quick meal solution, these recipes have got you covered.

In the following sections, we’ll be diving into each of these amazing recipes, including One Pot Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, Cheesy One Pot Ground Beef Pasta, and many more. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

One Pot Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

One Pot Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
A hearty, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor from the ground beef, rice, and savory seasonings.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the uncooked rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Cheesy One Pot Ground Beef Pasta

Cheesy One Pot Ground Beef Pasta
A comforting and satisfying pasta dish that’s ready in under an hour. This recipe is a great way to use up ground beef and is perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked pasta to the pot and stir until well combined.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sauce has thickened.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef Chili Mac

One Pot Ground Beef Chili Mac
A hearty and comforting one-pot meal that combines the flavors of ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and beans.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup macaroni
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, beans, macaroni, salt, and pepper. Pour in the water.
5. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef Stroganoff

One Pot Ground Beef Stroganoff
A classic comfort food recipe with a twist – it’s all cooked in one pot! This hearty dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the mushrooms, beef broth, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
6. Serve the stroganoff over the noodles, topped with sour cream (if using) and garnished with parsley.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef and Potato Hash

One Pot Ground Beef and Potato Hash
Get ready for a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of the year! This One Pot Ground Beef and Potato Hash recipe is an easy and flavorful way to get your daily dose of protein, complex carbs, and vitamins.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chives or scallions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced potatoes and stir to combine with the meat mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef Taco Soup

One Pot Ground Beef Taco Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a weeknight dinner, this One Pot Ground Beef Taco Soup is a crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 packet (1.25 oz) taco seasoning
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, tortilla chips

Instructions:

1. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, beans, beef broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with your favorite optional toppings.

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

One Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups chopped cabbage
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the cabbage; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef and Mushroom Gravy

One Pot Ground Beef and Mushroom Gravy
This hearty dish is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. Sautéed ground beef, mushrooms, and aromatic spices come together in a rich and savory gravy, all cooked in one pot!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground beef; cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed (5-7 minutes).
3. Add onion, mushrooms, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender (8-10 minutes).
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; stir to combine.
5. Gradually add beef broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
6. Bring to a simmer; cook for 10-12 minutes or until gravy thickens.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef and Vegetable Stew

One Pot Ground Beef and Vegetable Stew
A hearty and comforting meal that’s ready in under an hour! This one-pot stew is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, potatoes, carrot, diced tomatoes, peas, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 45-50 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef and Cornbread Casserole

One Pot Ground Beef and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty one-pot casserole that combines the comfort of ground beef with the warmth of cornbread, all in a single dish. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cornbread mix (with egg and water as directed on the package)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted


1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large Dutch oven or skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in corn kernels, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. In a separate bowl, combine milk and flour. Gradually add the mixture to the beef mixture, whisking constantly.
6. Pour in the melted butter and stir until combined.
7. Top with cornbread mix, following package instructions for egg and water.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
9. Serve hot.

One Pot Ground Beef and Quinoa Bowl

One Pot Ground Beef and Quinoa Bowl
This hearty one-pot dish combines the flavors of ground beef, quinoa, and vegetables for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or sliced avocado for toppings

Instructions:

1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the quinoa, water or broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Serve hot, topped with your favorite ingredients.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef and Black Bean Chili

One Pot Ground Beef and Black Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This one-pot wonder combines tender ground beef, creamy black beans, and aromatic spices for a deliciously comforting meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet

One Pot Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines ground beef, zucchini, and tomatoes in a rich and savory skillet dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the sliced zucchinis and cherry tomatoes; cook for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano to taste.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef and Tomato Basil Pasta

One Pot Ground Beef and Tomato Basil Pasta
This hearty pasta dish is a comforting blend of ground beef, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all cooked to perfection in one pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s easy on the budget.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the beef and tomato mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Curry

One Pot Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Curry
One Pot Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Curry Recipe

This hearty curry combines tender ground beef with sweet potatoes and a blend of aromatic spices, all cooked in one pot for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef and Broccoli Rice

One Pot Ground Beef and Broccoli Rice
This hearty one-pot dish is a perfect solution for a quick and satisfying meal. With ground beef, broccoli, and fluffy rice cooked together in just one pot, you’ll have a flavorful and filling meal ready in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, garlic powder for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the rice and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
5. Stir in broccoli and cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional flavorings.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef and Spinach Lasagna Soup

One Pot Ground Beef and Spinach Lasagna Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of lasagna with a comforting bowl of goodness. Perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutritious spinach.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the lasagna noodles, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, spinach, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef and Eggplant Parmesan

One Pot Ground Beef and Eggplant Parmesan
This hearty, one-pot dish combines the flavors of ground beef, eggplant, and melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the eggplant slices in batches, cooking until they’re tender, about 10-12 minutes total.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and continue to simmer until melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef and Lentil Stew

One Pot Ground Beef and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with protein and fiber. With only one pot to clean, it’s a great option for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups water

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

One Pot Ground Beef and Green Bean Casserole

One Pot Ground Beef and Green Bean Casserole
A hearty and satisfying casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines ground beef, green beans, and creamy sauce all in one pot, making it easy to prepare and clean up.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups frozen green beans
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned.
3. Add green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until green beans are tender.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and cover the pot with a lid.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Summary

Get ready to revolutionize your weeknight meals with these easy one pot ground beef recipes! From classic comfort foods like chili mac and stroganoff, to international flavors like taco soup and sweet potato curry, there’s something for everyone. These convenient recipes are perfect for busy nights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. With a variety of options to choose from, including pasta dishes, skillet meals, soups, and casseroles, you’ll never run out of ideas. Try one pot ground beef and rice skillet, cheesy pasta, or vegetable stew – the possibilities are endless!

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