Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further! With a little creativity and some simple ingredients, you can whip up a variety of tasty and convenient beef dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From slow cooker stews to quick stir-fries, one-pan wonders to classic meatloaves, we’ve got 20 delicious easy beef recipes that’ll become your new go-to’s for busy weeknights.
Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent on-the-go, these mouthwatering recipes are designed to be quick, easy, and satisfying. With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking methods, you can enjoy a hearty beef-based meal in no time. So why wait? Let’s get started with our top 20 picks for the best easy beef recipes that’ll make your taste buds do the happy dance!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Savor the rich flavors of a hearty beef stew cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. This classic recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the beef, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme to your slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Low: 8-10 hours
– High: 4-6 hours
Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A quick and delicious stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
4. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 1 minute, until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
6. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Garlic Butter Steak
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful one-pan steak recipe, infused with the richness of garlic butter and perfectly cooked to medium-rare.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove the skillet from the oven and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter.
7. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the steak hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Beef Tacos with Homemade Seasoning
Tacos are a classic Mexican dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. This recipe combines the rich flavor of beef with a homemade seasoning blend, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons homemade seasoning (see below)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Homemade Seasoning:
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the homemade seasoning blend and stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with seasoned beef, cheese, and cilantro (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Beef and Mushroom Skillet
Savor the flavors of a hearty one-pan dish with this simple recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz baby potatoes, peeled and sliced
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; sauté until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add sliced potatoes and beef back into the skillet; stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Beef Meatloaf
This classic beef meatloaf recipe yields a juicy, flavorful loaf that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its simple combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and spices, it’s an easy and satisfying meal option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; mix again until evenly distributed.
4. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this easy-to-make Beef and Cheese Quesadillas recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day snack.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 4 large tortillas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pan or griddle, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Place a portion of the beef mixture onto half of each tortilla, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Fold tortillas in half to enclose filling.
7. Cook quesadillas for 2-3 minutes per side, until cheese is melted and tortillas are crispy.
8. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Beef Chili
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening or a weeknight meal. This recipe yields a flavorful and filling chili that’s easy to prepare and packed with tender beef, vegetables, and beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
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 soft.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 30 minutes or longer, allowing flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simple beef and vegetable stir-fry recipe. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add the cooked beef back into the pan, stir in soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches
Get ready for a classic comfort food with this simple recipe for Philly cheesesteaks. Thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions come together in a harmonious union.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or top round), cut into strips
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Cook the sliced onions until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing cooked beef and onions on each hoagie roll half.
5. Place a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of the beef mixture.
6. Place the other hoagie roll half on top to create a sandwich.
7. Cook in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender beef, savory rice, and crunchy peppers. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is well combined.
5. Stir in cooked rice and mix well.
6. Stuff each pepper with the beef and rice mixture, topping with shredded cheese if desired.
7. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pan-Seared Beef Medallions
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive pan-searing technique that yields tender and flavorful beef medallions. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 beef medallions (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the beef medallions with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
3. Add the olive oil to the preheated skillet and swirl it around.
4. Sear the beef medallions for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness (medium-rare, medium, or well-done).
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time:
– Medium-rare: 4-6 minutes total
– Medium: 6-8 minutes total
– Well-done: 8-10 minutes total
Beef and Potato Hash
Savor a hearty and comforting Beef and Potato Hash with tender beef, crispy potatoes, and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, 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. Add diced potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are crispy.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quick Beef and Noodle Soup
This hearty and comforting soup is a perfect solution for a weeknight dinner. With minimal prep time and easy cooking, you’ll have a warm and satisfying meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the chicken broth, noodles, onion, garlic, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups
Beef and Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
A twist on the classic lasagna, these roll-ups are a fun and easy way to enjoy a hearty Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 lasagna noodles
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, and spinach to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in ricotta cheese and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Lay a cooked lasagna noodle flat on a surface. Spread about 1/4 cup of the beef and spinach mixture onto the noodle, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Roll up the noodle tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.
8. Top roll-ups with shredded mozzarella cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Easy Mongolian Beef
Get ready for a flavorful and savory stir-fry with this simple recipe for Easy Mongolian Beef. This classic Chinese dish is a crowd-pleaser, made with tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a rich sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook beef strips in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
2. In the same pan, add vegetable oil, onion, and garlic. Stir-fry until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and snow peas to the pan. Cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This classic Asian-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be ready in under 30 minutes. With thinly sliced beef and crisp cabbage, this stir-fry is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups chopped cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, minced garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is crisp-tender.
5. Return the beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the cabbage mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Beef Sliders
These tender and juicy beef sliders are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a quick weeknight dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying delicious mini burgers in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Grill patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble sliders by placing a cooked patty on each bun, followed by your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Black Bean Burritos
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this hearty recipe that combines tender beef, rich black beans, and creamy cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salsa, sour cream, and avocado (for toppings)
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the black beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by spooning the beef and bean mixture onto a tortilla, topping with cheese (if using), and adding your favorite toppings.
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Quick Beef and Bell Pepper Skillet
In just a few minutes, you can have a flavorful and nutritious meal ready to go! This skillet recipe combines tender beef, crunchy bell peppers, and savory seasonings for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender.
4. Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and black pepper.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a taste adventure with these 20 delicious easy beef recipes perfect for busy weeknights! From classic comfort foods like meatloaf and chili, to international flavors like Mongolian beef and beef tacos, there’s something for everyone. These recipes are quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making them ideal for a hassle-free dinner. Try one-pan garlic butter steak, beef and broccoli stir-fry, or beef and cheese quesadillas – the possibilities are endless!
