Ground Beef Recipes

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Casseroles

One Pot Taco Spaghetti

A true 30 minute one-pot wonder meal; This Creamy Taco Spaghetti puts a zesty twist on a classic pasta dinner.

30 Minute Taco Dinner

When you need dinner in a pinch but just don't have the energy for a "from scratch" meal, reaching for the pasta and a jar of marinara sauce seems like the easy answer.

And listen, I love a classic easy spaghetti with ground beef. But sometimes you need a little something different. Something a little spicier... and little cheesier. That's where this Taco Spaghetti comes in!

A fork twirls a bite of creamy taco spaghetti.

This recipe delivers all the flavors you love in tacos--the beef, cheese, the spices, the cilantro--in one quick pasta dinner.

We're using a dutch oven for browning the beef, AND simmering the sauce, AND cooking the pasta. So this is a true, bonafide one-pot meal (not even plain spaghetti can claim that). No strainers or skillets here, so clean up will be a breeze.

And like so many other great saucy meat recipes (like our Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup or Slow Cooker Goulash), veggies and leafy greens are easy to sneak in here because they're masked beneath the cover of the bold taco flavors.

A plate piled full of creamy taco spaghetti.

Why We Love Taco Spaghetti! 

  • This is a one pot meal! So don’t sweat about dirty dishes.
  • Like regular spaghetti, this Taco Spaghetti recipe is quick; a true 30 minute meal.
  • Kids love tacos and spaghetti, so this meal should make for a whine-free dinner.
  • The secret ingredient (cream cheese) gives this recipe a wonderful creamy richness.
One pot taco spaghetti ingredients.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Ground beef - I recommend an 80/20 blend. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
  • Canned tomatoes and chilies - you can use the Italian spiced tomatoes instead of plain ones, and if you love chilies and spice, try adding a tablespoon of chipotles in adobo. Full warning though, it ups the heat fast with its smoky flavor goodness.
  • Spaghetti noodles - wheat-based pasta is a staple in most pantries, but you can also substitute this out for alternatives like multigrain pasta or quinoa and chickpea pasta for a gluten-free dish. Whole wheat pasta is chewy and has a distinct nuttier flavor while quinoa is light but gives you the benefit of whole grain.
  • Taco Seasoning- I keep this homemade taco seasoning on hand at all times, but store bought also works just fine.
  • Mexican cheese blend and cream cheese - cheese is one of my favorite things to give a meal that special something. In this recipe, you have the flexibility to experiment with different cheeses. Just make sure they’re a melting variety. Swiss cheese and Provolone are a couple of favorites for a new twist. 
  • Fresh cilantro - with its distinct flavor makes this one pot taco spaghetti sizzle with freshness. If you’re looking for a substitution, fresh basil is an amazing alternative. You can also chop up fresh spinach as an addition, and even your pickiest eaters won’t know they’re eating leafy greens.
  • Cooking ground beef for taco spaghetti.
  • Adding tomatoes and green chilies to taco spaghetti.
  • Adding pasta to one pot taco spaghetti.
  • Adding cream cheese to one pot taco spaghetti.
  • Adding shredded cheese to one pot taco spaghetti.

How To Make Creamy Taco Spaghetti

  1. Sear meat. With your large dutch oven over medium-high heat, add some olive oil, and brown your ground beef.
  2. Cook the vegetables. While the meat is browning, add your onions. Check out this vegetable chopper that will save you time in the kitchen. (It can even be used to shred cheese!)
  3. Stir in remaining ingredients. Toss in your taco seasoning, and stir in the canned tomatoes and chilies, pasta, and water.
  4. Simmer until cooked. After adding the water and pasta, let it cook until the pasta is nearly finished before adding the cream cheese.
  5. Serve. Add in the shredded cheese and fresh cilantro, and you’re ready to sit down and eat.
A serving platter piled high with creamy one pot taco spaghetti.

Tips & FAQs for Making Creamy Taco Spaghetti

  • This meal is great served with bread and a garden salad, green beans, or our Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower.
  • It’s easy to store leftovers of this meal in the fridge and reheat them in the microwave. But you can also heat it up on the stove top.
  • To make Taco Spaghetti you need a large dutch oven. Trust me: It's a worthwhile investment. You'll be using this pot all of the time for searing meats, cooking stews, roasts, even baking artisan bread; It's incredibly versatile and the enamel coating makes it very easy to clean.
Tongs grabbing a serving of creamy taco spaghetti.

More Taco Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you can't get enough of tacos in any form, be sure to try out our Slow Cooker Taco Meat that's perfect for hosting a huge taco buffet party. Also great for a gathering is our Walking Taco Casserole recipe.

If appetizers are more your style, don't miss our Layered Taco Dip with Meat.

Or try one of our other great Mexican Ground Beef Recipes!

A plate full of taco spaghetti.

Taco Spaghetti

This one pot creamy taco spaghetti is a quick simple meal that's perfect for a fast family dinner.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 4

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • ½ cup onion diced
  • 1 1 oz package taco seasoning
  • 10 ounce can diced tomatoes and chilies
  • 8 ounces spaghetti noodles
  • 3 cups water
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened, cut into cubes
  • ½ cup Mexican blend cheese shredded
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, onions, and taco seasoning. Cook for 3-5 minutes, until the beef is browned.
  • Stir in diced tomatoes and chiles. Add spaghetti and water. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 12 minutes, or until pasta is nearly cooked through.
  • Stir in cubed cream cheese, cover, and simmer for 2 minutes until melted.
  • Remove the pot from the heat and mix in the shredded cheese until melted.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with additional shredded cheese and fresh cilantro, if desired.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian, Mexican
Keyword creamy taco spaghetti, one pot taco spaghetti

More One Pot Recipes

If you need more one pot meals, check out Cheesy One Pot Tortellini and Sausage, One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni, and One Pot Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli.

Chili

No Bean Chili

Who said you need beans to make a great chili? My No Bean Chili recipe has simple ingredients and a whole lot of flavor.

Beef Chili for Chilly Weather

White bowl filled with no bean chili topped with sour cream, cheese, and green onions, with saltine crackers on the side.

I’m a BIG fan of chili, no matter the variety. Beef, pork, chicken, turkey…it’s all good! But today we’re talking about my beanless ground beef chili. It’s the perfect meal for a cold, fall day. 

Here’s why I love this chili:

  • It feeds a crowd. With only 2 pounds of ground beef, you’ll get 8 servings of this delicious chili. No need to double the recipe! And if you’re only feeding a few people, that means leftovers for tomorrow.
  • It only takes 30 minutes. This is not a recipe that requires hours of prep and cook time. Once your ingredients are ready, it’ll only take 30 minutes to have dinner on the table. That’s my kind of weeknight meal!
  • No beans! Growing up I hated kidney beans, which meant I also hated chili. Guilt by association and all that. I know many people avoid chili for the same reasons, but that's where this beanless version comes in! It's got all the things that make chili great--the seasoned ground beef, the vegetables, the yummy toppings--but without the gastrointestinal distress!

Key Ingredients for Beanless Chili

Ingredients for chili in bowls- ground beef, onions, green peppers, chopped tomatoes, spices, garlic, tomato paste, and broth.
  • Ground beef- It's a classic for a reason.
  • Veggies- Onions and green pepper help bulk up the chili and eliminate the need for beans.
  • Seasonings- Adding staple spices to this recipe elevates the flavor of the chili. We’ve got chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. You can also throw in some cayenne pepper if you want an extra kick.
  • Sugar- Just a skosh of brown sugar tempers the acidity of the tomato.
  • Tomatoes, tomatoes, and more tomatoes- I really didn’t hold back the tomatoes in this recipe. We've got tomato paste to help thicken the chili, chunks of diced tomato, and tomato sauce to tie everything together. 

How to Make Chili without Beans

  • Ground beef cooking in a cast iron pot.
  • Wooden spatula stirring ground beef, onions, green pepper, and garlic in a cast iron pot.
  • Sauteed ground beef and vegetables topped with ground cumin, chili, garlic powder, and salt.
  • Big pot filled with cooked ground beef, onions, green pepper, and tomato paste.
  • Pot filled with canned tomatoes and broth.
  1. Add ground beef to a large Dutch oven set over medium-high heat. Cook the beef for 5-6 minutes, crumbling it as it cooks, until it begins to brown. Drain off any excess fat.
  2. Reduce the heat to medium, then add the green pepper, onion, and garlic and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
  3. Season the mixture with chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add the broth and deglaze the pot with a wooden spoon, reduce for about 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for at least 20-25 minutes.
  5. Taste and season if necessary, then serve with your favorite sides and toppings.
Cast iron pot of beanless chili with a ladle scooping into it.

Sides and Toppings for Chili

My favorite side dish for chili is this Gluten Free Cornbread. It's got just the right amount of sweetness! Here are a few of my other favorite toppings:

  • sour cream
  • shredded cheese
  • sliced avocado
  • green onions
  • fresh cilantro
  • corn chips
  • crackers
Two bowls of beanless chili next to a big pot of chili.

FAQs

How long does leftover chili last?

Leftover chili will keep for 4-5 days in the fridge. Leftovers would make a great base for this Walking Taco Casserole!

Can you freeze chili?

Yes! This chili freezes very well. Once it's cooked, allow it to cool, then place it in a freezer safe container and freeze for 3-4 months. Thaw the chili overnight in the fridge then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can you make this no bean chili in the crock pot?

You can. I recommend sauteeing the ground beef and vegetables first, then adding everything else to the crock pot and cooking on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4.

If you want a chili recipe designed specifically for the crock pot, check out my Slow Cooker Steak Chili.

Bowl of chili topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions.

More Cozy Recipes for the Colder Months

If you want a no-bean chili with a little more stuff, check out my Mom's Green Bean Chili! She subbed the kidney and pinto beans for green beans and added pasta to make a chili recipe even her picky kids (ahem, me) would enjoy.

You might also want to cozy up with a bowl of this Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup or Crock Pot Goulash with Hamburger.

Or try these comforting casseroles:

No Bean Chili in a white bowl with a spoon scooping into it.
White bowl filled with no bean chili and topped with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions.

No Bean Chili Recipe

Who said you need beans to make a great chili? My No Bean Chili recipe has simple ingredients and a whole lot of flavor.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Servings: 8

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ground beef can mix it up w/ ground pork or turkey also
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt plus more to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper plus more to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 ½ cups beef broth
  • 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
  • 1 10 oz can diced tomatoes and chilies
  • 1 8 oz can tomato sauce
  • 1 ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar

Instructions

  • Add ground beef to a large Dutch oven set over medium-high heat. Cook the beef for 5-6 minutes, crumbling it as it cooks, until it begins to brown. Drain off any excess fat.
  • Reduce the heat to medium, then add the green pepper, onion, and garlic and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
  • Season the mixture with chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add the broth and deglaze the pot with a wooden spoon, reduce for about 2 minutes.
  • Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for at least 20-25 minutes.
  • Taste and season if necessary, then serve with your favorite sides and toppings.

Notes

Suggested sides: Crackers, bread, or cornbread
Suggested toppings: Sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, green onions, fresh cilantro, fresh parsley
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword beanless chili, chili recipe in 30 minutes, chili without beans, no bean chili

Casseroles

Hamburger Potato Casserole

When you need an ultra-comforting, family friendly dinner, try this Hamburger Potato Casserole, featuring layers of tender potatoes and ground beef in a cheesy cream sauce.

Comfort Food at its Finest

Casserole dish with ground beef and potato casserole, plus two plates each with a big scoop of the casserole on them.

Nothing says cooler weather and holiday gatherings like a hearty casserole. This recipe has all the elements of a good casserole: meat, veggies, and a cheesy cream sauce.

Casseroles get a bad name for being boring or mushy--all those ingredients blending into one bland bite--but that's not the case with this recipe! We've elevated the standard meat and potato casserole with plenty of garlic, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of tang from sour cream!

Here’s what makes this casserole so good:

  • Simple ingredients. If you love meat and potatoes, this is the dish for you! No fancy or expensive ingredients are needed, just good old ground beef, potatoes, and a few pantry staples.
  • A full meal in one pan. Some days, a simple casserole is all you have energy for. With this recipe, you have all the makings of a great meal in just one dish. Pair it with some rolls or an easy garden salad, and you’re good to go!
  • Make ahead friendly. You can assemble this casserole in advance and bake it whenever you're ready!

Key Ingredients for Hamburger Potato Casserole

Ingredients displayed in bowls- yukon gold potatoes, ground beef, condensed soup, shredded cheese, garlic, milk, sour cream, worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper.
  • Ground beef. The star of the show! It's hearty, it's affordable, it's a casserole standard. (See also Walking Taco Casserole and Baked Spaghetti Casserole).
  • Worcestershire sauce. Whether or not you can pronounce it, you definitely don’t wanna skip the Worcestershire sauce in this recipe. It adds a tangy rich flavor and brings the whole casserole together. 
  • CHEESE. What would a casserole be without cheese? I used shredded cheddar and Monterey jack, but you can experiment with different cheeses—as long as they’re easily melted.
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup- I don't often cook with canned soups, but they're a go-to for ultra creamy casseroles.
  • Sour Cream-
  • Potatoes. This is where we get the structure of our casserole and so much good texture. I used Yukon gold potatoes, but russets or even red potatoes would work well. Just be sure to thinly slice them-- a mandoline slicer or food processor is great for this!

How to Make a Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

Wooden spoon scooping Hamburger Potato Casserole out of a casserole dish.

This casserole dish has three main components: sliced potatoes, cooked ground beef, and the cheesy cream sauce. Here's how you'll make it!

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray the inside of a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
  2. Cook the ground beef and onion until no longer pink, 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat, drain off any excess grease. Stir in garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Whisk together the sauce. Stir condensed soups, milk, sour cream, Italian seasoning, and cheddar cheese in a large mixing bowl.
  4. Layer! Spread half cup of the soup mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  5. Arrange a third of the sliced potatoes in a shingled layer on top of the soup. Top with half of the meat, then pour on half of the remaining sauce, spreading it evenly. Add another layer of potatoes, the rest of the meat, the rest of the sauce, then the final layer of potatoes. Sprinkle the top with cheese.
  6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, place on a rimmed baking sheet, and bake for 80 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork tender and cheese is melted.
  7. Allow to sit for 10 minutes, then garnish with parsley and serve.

Here's a visual to help with the layering!

  • Casserole dish with cream of mushroom soup and cheddar cheese mixture on the bottom.
  • Casserole dish layered with sliced potatoes.
  • Layered casserole with potatoes, ground beef, and cream of mushroom soup mixture.
  • Casserole dish shown with beef and cream of mushroom soup mixture.
  • Sliced potatoes arranged like shingles in a casserole dish.
  • Unbaked casserole topped with shredded cheddar and monterey jack cheese.

Can you make hamburger potato casserole ahead of time?

This recipe is ideal for making ahead of time. You can cook and layer the casserole ingredients up to two days in advance, then refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This recipe takes over an hour to bake, so I prefer to make it the night before or morning of the day we'll be eating it for dinner. It's also perfect to take to new moms to bake when they're ready!

Can you freeze this casserole?

Scoop of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole on a white plate.

Yes, with some caveats. Sliced potatoes can get a touch soft in the freezer, so they're not likely to have quite as nice of a texture as the fresh baked casserole does, but other than that, this freezes really beautifully!

Assemble the casserole as usual, but do not bake. Instead, wrap it in foil, then wrap it again in saran wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as usual.

Fork stabbing layers of potatoes and ground beef in a creamy sauce.

More Comforting Ground Beef Casseroles

If you love the combo of ground beef and potatoes, you have to try this Skillet Ground Beef and Potatoes! It's got all the flavors of a hearty casserole but made on the stove top in half the time!

We also love this Mexican Cornbread Casserole with Ground Beef and, of course, Mom's Best Easy Meatloaf Recipe.

When you need to feed a crowd, check out my Company Casserole, a super creamy and cheesy ground beef and pasta casserole. We also love this Johnny Marzetti, a classic Midwestern pasta casserole that could feed an army.

Cheesy potatoes and hamburger casserole on a white plate.

Hamburger Potato Casserole

With layers of tender potatoes and creamy ground beef, this Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty dinner the whole family will love. It's also make ahead friendly and great for bringing to new parents or grieving families.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 1 hr 40 mins
Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • ¾ cup milk
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded, divided
  • 3 pounds Yukon gold potatoes thinly sliced
  • ½ cup Monterey jack cheese shredded
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray the inside of a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
  • In a large skillet set over medium heat, add beef and onion and cook until no longer pink, 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat, drain off any excess grease, and stir in garlic, Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine condensed soups, milk, sour cream, Italian seasoning, and ½ cup cheddar cheese.
  • Spread ½ cup of the soup mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  • Arrange ⅓ of the sliced potatoes in a shingled layer in the baking dish. Top with half of the meat, then pour on half of the sauce, spreading it evenly. Repeat with remaining ingredients to create a second layer. Layer on the remaining potatoes, then sprinkle on the rest of the cheese.
  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil, place on a rimmed baking sheet, and bake for 80 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork tender and cheese is melted.
  • Allow to sit for 10 minutes, then garnish with parsley and serve.

Notes

For full make ahead and freezer instructions, see the post above.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword ground beef and potato casserole, ground beef casserole with potatoes, hamburger potato casserole

Casseroles

Mom's Best Easy Meatloaf

The very best Easy Meatloaf is a treasured family favorite. With the perfect blend of savory beef, onions, and breadcrumbs and a thick, tangy ketchup glaze, this is a recipe every family needs in their collection!

The Best Easy Meatloaf Recipe

White casserole dish with a ketchup glazed meatloaf inside, half of it sliced and half whole.

No website dedicated to ground beef recipes would be complete without a traditional meatloaf recipe. This one comes from my mom, and though I might be a tad biased, I think it’s the best around.

Want to know the secret? Don’t use dried breadcrumbs! Fresh breadcrumbs soaked in milk are the key to a great tasting meatloaf that’s never dry.

Here’s why you’re going to love this recipe:

  • It’s super simple. This easy meatloaf recipe with few ingredients only takes ten minutes of prep work before tossing it into the oven.
  • While it's baking, you have time to cook sides or desserts—or even kick back and read a book!
  • This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, and also works well as a meal to take to new moms or grieving families.
  • It makes the BEST leftovers! Cheesy Meatloaf Sandwich, anyone?

I can’t wait for you to try this family favorite!

Key Ingredients And Substitutions

Ingredients for meatloaf displayed in small bowls- ground beef, diced onions, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, and mustard.
  • Ground Beef - I use 80 to 90% lean meat to keep it moist. You can substitute part of the ground beef with ground pork if you want to add a twist to this classic.
  • Onion - Onion enhances the flavor of beef AND adds moisture, so don’t skip them!
  • Breadcrumbs- The key is to use fresh breadcrumbs from soft white or Italian bread. To make the breadcrumbs, place sliced bread in a food processor and pulse until small crumbs form.
  • Eggs - This binding ingredient will give it some structure.
  • Milk - Adding milk soaks the breadcrumbs and keeps everything nice and moist.
  • Ketchup, Brown Sugar, and Mustard - This trio is for the glaze, and you won’t believe how tasty it is!

How To Make This Traditional Meatloaf Recipe

  1. Mixing your meatloaf - Add the ground beef, salt, pepper, onions, and beaten eggs to a bowl. Put the breadcrumbs on top and pour the milk over top to soak them. Use your hands to gently mix all the ingredients together.
  2. Form the meatloaf - Gently pat the mixture into a loaf pan or free form it into a loaf on a baking sheet.
  3. Making the glaze - Whisk the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard together. Then spread it on top of the meatloaf.
  4. Bake - Let it cook in your oven for a little less than an hour. You’ll notice the glaze caramelizing when it’s done.
  5. Serve - Let it rest for a few minutes, and then serve it with your delicious side dishes.
  • Bowl filled with ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced onions, eggs, salt, pepper, and milk.
  • Raw meatloaf in a bowl.

Tips & Faqs

How to Shape Meatloaf

The size and shape of your meatloaf is up to you! You can pat it into a loaf pan or a square pan, or use your hands to shape it free-form on a sheet pan or in casserole dish. I tend to like mine a little thinner and wider, so I use a bigger casserole dish or a sheet pan.

Unbaked meatloaf on a parchment lined baking sheet.

How to know when meatloaf is done

The best way to tell when meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer, like this one. The meatloaf can be pulled from the oven when a thermometer registers 155 degrees at the thickest point, then rested for 10 minutes before serving.

Note that the thicker your meatloaf is, the longer it will take to bake. Meatloaf made in a loaf pan will likely take around an hour. Thinner meatloaf may be ready in as little as 45 minutes.

Easy meatloaf recipe shown baked and sliced in a casserole dish.

How to store and reheat meatloaf

Cool the meatloaf completely, then wrap up any leftovers and store in the fridge. I think it gets even better the second day!

Individual slices of meatloaf can be reheated in a microwave, covered with a damp paper towel.

If you’d like to reheat a larger portion, place it on a baking sheet or leave it in the loaf pan, add a spoonful of beef broth to help it retain moisture, cover with foil, and reheat at 250 degrees for 20-25 minutes.

Can meatloaf be made ahead of time?

The meatloaf can be prepared then refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance. Add the glaze right before baking.

Can you freeze meatloaf?

You can freeze the unbaked, unglazed meatloaf tightly wrapped in saran wrap for up to 6 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then add the glaze and bake as usual.

Slices of meatloaf with ketchup glaze.

Gluten Free Meatloaf Option

Almost a decade ago, my mom discovered she needed to maintain a gluten free diet to help with ongoing health issues. It was difficult for a woman who loves to cook to find variations on some of her favorite recipes, but over the years, she’s managed to do it!

To make it gluten free, substitute the fresh breadcrumbs with either fresh breadcrumbs made from gluten free bread OR quick oats.

Side Dishes for Meatloaf

My ultimate meatloaf dinner includes these Creamy Mashed Potatoes and either this garlicky Green Beans Recipe or Sauteed Spinach and Onions. Sometimes I sub the potatoes for a slice of buttered Amish White Bread.

Looking for something a little different? Try these Balsamic Grilled Vegetables, Corn Souffle, Cheesy Potatoes, or Air Fryer Potatoes!

White plate with a slice of meatloaf and sauteed spinach in the background.

More Easy Ground Beef Recipes 

Now that you’re in love with this recipe, check out my Cheesy Mini Meatloaf. The kids love it because they’re small!

You may also enjoy our Slow Cooker Goulash, Crock Pot BBQ Meatballs, and Big Mac Sloppy Joes.

A baking dish serves a sliced meatloaf.

Best Easy Meatloaf

Everyone needs an easy meatloaf recipe, and this one is our favorite! It's very easy to make and has the best tangy sweet ketchup glaze!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Servings: 8
Calories: 419kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the meatloaf:

  • 2 lbs. ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 2 cups fine bread crumbs from about 4 slices white bread, NOT dried breadcrumbs
  • 2 eggs lightly beaten
  • ¾ cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper

For the glaze:

  • ¾ cup ketchup
  • 3 Tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons yellow mustard

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, or use a 9 inch loaf pan.
  • Place the ground beef, onions, and breadcrumbs in a bowl. Pour the milk and eggs directly over the breadcrumbs, allowing them to soak in the moisture. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Use your hands to gently combine and bring the mixture together.
  • Form the mixture into a loaf shape on the baking sheet, or pat it into the loaf pan.
  • In another bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Slather the mixture all over the top of the meatloaf, then bake for 45-60 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized. (A larger, shallower loaf will take less time to bake, and the loaf pan will be on the longer side.) The meatloaf is done when a meat thermometer reads 155 degrees. Allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

To make fresh breadcrumbs, add fresh white bread slices to a food processor and pulse until small crumbs form.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword easy meatloaf, traditional meatloaf recipe

Nutrition

Calories: 419kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 119mg | Sodium: 1133mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 11g

Burgers & Sandwiches

How to Grill Burgers

Learn how to make the best burgers on the grill! We walk through all the best tips and tricks, share what works and what doesn’t, and provide an easy recipe you can use to grill fantastic burgers every time!

Grilling Burgers: The Ultimate Guide

Homemade hamburger with onion, lettuce, and tomatoes on a brioche bun.

For something as ubiquitous and common as the hamburger, it sure can be tricky to get it just right. We’ve all had the unfortunate experience of biting into a bad burger. Nothing is quite so disappointing as readying yourself for that first bite, only to be met by a dry, flavorless puck of meat.

A great burger, on the other hand, is impossible to resist. It’s juicy and tender, with lots of melty cheese and a perfectly seasoned crust. That’s the burger we all crave, and in this post, we’re going to discuss exactly how to grill the perfect burger.

From what kind of beef is best for burgers to the best burger toppings, I’ll walk you through every step so you never have to eat a bad burger again!


Don’t have a grill? Use these same tips to make the best Air Fryer Hamburgers!

Platter of burger patties with plates of toppings surrounding it, including tomato slices, red onion, greens, toasted buns, and sliced cheese.

Tips for Making the Best Hamburgers on the Grill

Before we jump into the instructions, here are a few tips I use every time I make burgers.

  • Use fatty beef- Save the lean beef for Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup. I recommend using no leaner than 80/20 beef for juicy burgers.
  • Be gentle- Avoid tough burgers by handling the meat as little (and as gently) as possible.
  • Use your thumb to indent the center- If you’ve ever started grilling a big burger patty and ended up with a small burger dome, you’ll understand the importance of this trick. Making an indent in the center of your patty prevents it from puffing up in the center and allows for more even cooking.
  • Oil your grill grates- Avoid mangling your burgers by starting with clean, oiled grates. You can oil them by spraying with cooking spray (BEFORE lighting the grill), or using a paper towel soaked in vegetable oil to wipe them down (my preferred method).
  • Flip once- The key to getting those lovely grill marks is to only flip the burgers once. Allow them to cook undisturbed for several minutes before flipping.
  • Never press burgers down- Nothing hurts me more than watching someone press their spatula into a burger patty and seeing all those delicious juices run out. Please, if you disregard all my other advice, DON’T DO THIS. We want all those juices in our burgers, not at the bottom of the grill.
Platter of grilled hamburgers.

Tricks for Juicy Burgers: Do They Work?

We’ve all heard our favorite chef share their top secret trick for making the juiciest burger. I was excited to try a few of these and see if they were worth the hype.

Here are the 3 tricks I tested:

  • Seasoning the outside of the burgers vs. seasoning all of the meat
  • Adding an ice cube to the center of the patty for extra moisture
  • Topping the burger with butter for added flavor and fat

How to Season Burgers

I have long been a season-all-the-burger-meat girl, thinking that would give the burgers the most flavor. However, this test has made me a convert.

Seasoning the outside of the beef creates a juicy burger with a super flavorful crust. Generously seasoning both sides of the patty gives it plenty of flavor, despite not being mixed throughout the meat.

Turns out there’s some science behind this as well. Salt draws moisture out, so it’s best to wait to salt it until right before it’s going on the grill, and to only salt the outside.

Salt and pepper makes a fine seasoning on its own, but if you want to take things up a notch, try this easy homemade burger seasoning.

Raw burger patty with a thumb indent in the center, shown with a bowl of seasoning on the side.

Adding an Ice Cube: Yay or Nay?

This one did not impress me. It was a pain to wrap the burger meat around the ice cube, and one of my burgers ended up with a weird divot where the ice cube was. And, for obvious reasons, this trick is super time sensitive. I didn’t notice a significant change in juiciness, so the ice cube trick was a no for me.

Burger patty with an ice cube shown in the center.

Should I add butter to burgers?

The butter trick was tantalizing to look at (I mean, who doesn’t start drooling when they see a pat of butter melt over a burger patty?), but was also not a game changer for me. It made a *slight* difference in flavor and juiciness, but not enough that this will be a regular for me. However, I do recommend using butter when you cook burgers in a cast iron skillet, as you get the benefit of the butter staying in the pan and basting the burgers as you cook.

Burger patty shown on a grill with a pat of butter melting on top.

How to Grill Burgers

Now that we’ve got all the tips and tricks up our sleeve, let’s bring it all together and grill some burgers!

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1.5 pounds 80/20 ground beef- I make 5 patties with this, for ⅓ lb burgers.
  • Salt and pepper or burger seasoning
  • A grill, charcoal or gas

Preparation and instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium high heat (About 450 degrees). If you’re using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals so you’ll have one high heat zone for cooking and one low heat zone, so you can move the burgers if there are flare ups.
  2. Shape the patties. Use your hands to gently form the burgers into 5 balls of roughly equal size. Place them on a cutting board or sheet pan, and use the palm of your hand to gently press them into a circle. They don’t have to be a perfect circle. Burger patties shrink during cooking, so make your patties slightly larger than the size of your buns.
  3. Indent. Use your thumb to press an indent into the center of each burger.
  4. Season. Right before the burgers are going on the grill, give them a generous sprinkling of seasoning on both sides.
  5. Grill. Place burgers directly on the grill and grill according to the time and temperature guide below.
  • Burger meat shaped into six balls on a sheet pan.
  • Thumb pressing an indent into the center of a burger patty.

How Long to Grill Burgers: Time and Temperature Guide

Every grill and every burger size is different, so please use these guidelines as a rough estimate. Temperature is a much better guide than time, so grab a meat thermometer and use it to know exactly when your burgers are done.

  • Rare Burger Temp and Time: 130-135 degrees, 3-4 minutes per side
  • Medium Burger Temp and Time: 140-145 degrees, 4-5 minutes per side
  • Well Done Burger Temp and Time: 150-155 degrees, 5-6 minutes per side

Note: These temperatures account for carryover cooking, which is the 5-10 degree rise in temperature after the burger comes off the grill. The USDA recommends cooking ground beef to at least 160 degrees, which means removing it at 150-155 degrees. 

Burgers with grill marks shown on a light green platter.

Burger Toppings + Recipes:

My personal philosophy is that burgers should always have cheese. Add cheese to the burgers for the last minute of grilling time to get it nice and melty. Besides cheese, we also love:

You can also check out our favorite sides for burgers and hot dogs here!

Grilled burger topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, and mayonnaise.
A grilled burger patty stacked on a bun with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and mayonnaise.

Perfect Grilled Burgers

Learn how to make the best juicy grilled burgers with these easy instructions!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Servings: 5

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your grill to medium high heat (About 450 degrees). If you’re using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals so you’ll have one high heat zone for cooking and one low heat zone, so you can move the burgers if there are flare ups.
  • Shape the patties. Use your hands to gently form the burgers into 5 balls of roughly equal size. Place them on a cutting board or sheet pan, and use the palm of your hand to gently press them into a circle. They don’t have to be a perfect circle. Burger patties shrink during cooking, so make your patties slightly larger than the size of your buns.
  • Indent. Use your thumb to press an indent into the center of each burger.
  • Season. Right before the burgers are going on the grill, give them a generous sprinkling of seasoning on both sides.
  • Grill. Place burgers directly on the grill and grill for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping only once, or until internal temp reaches 150 degrees for well done burgers. Add cheese for the last minute if desired. See chart in the notes below for temperature and time guidelines.

Notes

Cooking times will vary based on the size of your burger and your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for the best results.
  • Rare Burger Temp and Time: 130-135 degrees, 3-4 minutes per side
  • Medium Burger Temp and Time: 140-145 degrees, 4-5 minutes per side
  • Well Done Burger Temp and Time: 150-55 degrees, 5-6 minutes per side
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword grilled burgers, how to grill burgers

Casseroles

Walking Taco Casserole

Our Walking Taco Casserole is hearty, simple, and oh-so cheesy! Grab some canned ingredients from your pantry to make this quick weeknight dinner. The whole family will love it!

Wait...Why a Casserole?

Blue spoon holding a scoop of walking taco casserole topped with Fritos.

I know what you’re thinking. Walking tacos are already great on their own, so why should I make a casserole version? Let me tell you why:

  • Everything is contained in one dish, making it a little easier to serve for a family dinner, and a WHOLE lot easier to transport to a gathering. (Potluck anyone?)
  • The main ingredients (beef, beans, tomatoes, Fritos, etc.) are already combined, so you can simply add sour cream or other toppings once the casserole exits the oven.
  • Walking tacos are perfect for summer outings and backyard cookouts, but this Walking Taco Casserole is cozy comfort food--perfect for chilly Autumn nights!
  • MELTED CHEESE. Need I say more?
Blue bowl filled with taco casserole and topped with sour cream and lettuce.

Key Ingredients

Now that we’ve established that you need this casserole in your life, let’s get into it! This recipe is a great opportunity to use up some canned goods from your pantry. Here are the main ingredients you’ll need, along with some helpful tips:

  • Ground beef - The star of the show! You’ll need one pound of ground beef to make this casserole. If you have extra ground beef, you can make a spaghetti casserole to freeze for later.
  • Homemade taco seasoning - I know what you’re thinking. Homemade taco seasoning? That seems like a lot of extra work. I’m telling you—it’s very quick and easy to make. Grab some basic seasonings to make my 5-minute homemade taco seasoning. You can use it to spice up this casserole and then have it on hand for other taco recipes, like our Crock Pot Taco Meat.
  • Tomato sauce, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes - If you’re anything like me, these are already chilling out in your pantry. Put them to good use in this casserole!
  • Jalapenos - We like to add a little spice to our Walking Taco Casserole, but it’s not essential. If you want a milder flavor, you can leave out the jalapenos.
  • Fritos - This is where the crunch comes in. You can use any corn chip (not just Fritos) for this recipe, but if you’re gluten free, make sure they’re all corn. Not all corn chips are created equal.
  • Mexican blend cheese - You can really use any kind of cheese in this casserole, but Mexican blend is our favorite. We recommend adding 2 cups, but you can adjust based on your cheesy preferences. (Hint: More cheese is definitely not a bad thing in this case).
Wooden spoon stirring a meat and kidney bean mixture.

How to Make Our Walking Taco Casserole

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Heat the oil in a large sauce pan over medium heat. Add the onions and saute until beginning to soften. Add the jalapenos (optional) and saute an additional 2-3 minutes. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat then stir in taco seasoning. 
  3. Add the tomato sauce, kidney beans, and drained diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
  4. Layer the meat mixture at the bottom of a deep dish pie plate or casserole dish. Top with Fritos or corn chips of your choice, then sprinkle with cheese.
  5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted (aka GOOEY GOODNESS). If you want, serve with additional toppings. We love to add lettuce and sour cream.
Round casserole dish filled with taco casserole and topped with Fritos.

Tips and FAQS

Can you make Walking Taco Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can brown the beef and assemble everything for the casserole, except the chips, then cover it and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, add the chips, and bake as usual.

Can you freeze a Walking Taco Casserole?

Yes! Assemble the casserole in a freezer safe container (foil pans works great for this!), then double wrap it with plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge, or bake straight from frozen.

Can you make this with Doritos instead of Fritos?

You absolutely can! Sprinkle the top with Nacho or Cool Ranch Doritos if you prefer.

Blue spoon scooping a Frito-topped casserole.

What to Serve with a Walking Taco Casserole

These blueberry mojito mocktails are a great addition to this meal, and everyone can enjoy them because they are non-alcoholic. 

We also recommend pairing this walking taco casserole with a homemade black bean and corn salsa.

To finish things off, whip up this super easy faux fried ice cream for dessert.

Blue spoon scooping up a taco casserole, leaving strings of melty cheese behind.

More Taco Recipes You Might Enjoy

We love tacos a lot. In every form. Seriously, we might have a problem.

Of course, you can never go wrong with classic Ground Beef Tacos or Taco Salad, but the taco fun doesn't stop there!

Our Taco Spaghetti, Taco Tater Tot Casserole and Mexican Cornbread Casserole are also great taco-inspired recipes to add to your dinner rotation.

Liven up your next cookout with these Taco Burgers, or try serving this Layered Taco Dip with Meat at your next party.

Blue spoon taking a big scoop out of a Walking Taco Casserole.

Walking Taco Casserole

This Walking Taco Casserole combines everything you love about walking tacos (the beef, the cheese, the Fritos!) in a make ahead and freezer friendly casserole!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 small jalapenos seeds removed, diced (optional)
  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 2 ½ Tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
  • 1 14 ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 14 ounce can kidney beans drained
  • 1 14 ounce can diced tomatoes drained
  • 2 cups Fritos or other corn chips
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • Sour cream for serving if desired

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  • Heat the oil in a large sauce pan over medium heat. Add the onions and saute until beginning to soften. Add the jalapenos and saute an additional 2-3 minutes. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat then stir in taco seasoning.
  • Add the tomato sauce, kidney beans, and drained diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
  • Layer the meat mixture at the bottom of a deep dish pie plate or casserole dish. Top with Fritos, then sprinkle with cheese.
  • Bake for 20 minutes, or until cheese is melted. Serve with sour cream and other toppings, if desired.

Notes

The casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen until ready to bake. Leave the Fritos off, and add them right before baking.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Keyword walking taco casserole

Burgers & Sandwiches

Homemade Burger Seasoning

This easy burger seasoning only takes 5 minutes to whip up and is made with ingredients you likely already have on hand! Take your burgers to the next level with this homemade mix!

The Best Seasoning for Burgers

Bowl of hamburger spices with a cooked cheeseburger in the background.

Burger purists (cough---Bon Appetit---cough, cough) insist the best burger seasoning is simply salt and pepper.

And while a good ol’ salt and pepper burger is still a great burger, I have no problem zhushing things up a bit with a little garlic and onion powder.

That’s where this homemade burger seasoning comes in. It’s a simple blend of just 5 spices that you probably already have in your cupboard.

I love keeping homemade seasoning blends, like Taco Seasoning and Chicken Seasoning on hand for quick dinners, and this burger seasoning is definitely being added to my list of pantry staples.

This spice mix is easy to mix up and keeps for quite a while, so you can have a well seasoned burger in a jiffy!

Ingredients in Homemade Burger Seasoning

Spices for burgers shown in neat piles on a dark gray plate--salt, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, cayenne pepper, brown sugar.
  • Kosher salt- I prefer Kosher salt over table salt for flavor, but it also makes it harder to over season the meat.
  • Ground black pepper- Salt and pepper are the backbone of a good burger seasoning, and we’ve got plenty of each here!
  • Garlic powder- Always a welcome flavor enhancer, especially with meats!
  • Onion powder- Onion powder amps up the savory ground beef while also adding a touch of sweetness.
  • Brown sugar- Speaking of sweetness, we’re adding sugar! This might seem counterintuitive, but that hint of sugar is a really nice contrast to the ultra savory beef. If you prefer, you can omit this, and you’ll still have a delicious seasoning!
  • Cayenne pepper- This one is completely optional, but if you like a little heat, cayenne pepper will do the trick!

One thing you won't find in this seasoning blend is paprika. It's used in many burger seasoning recipes, but I personally find it too overpowering. If you love it, feel free to add it!

How to Make Seasoning for Hamburgers

Are you ready for this?

Add all the ingredients to a bowl and whisk together. You’re ready to season some burgers!

Small glass bowl filled with homemade burger seasoning.

How do you season burgers right?

Here’s the big question. How and when should you season burger patties? Is it best to combine the seasoning with the ground beef before forming it into patties, or is it better to season only the outside of the patties?

I was very curious to find the answer myself, so I tested both methods at home. I was always on Team Season All the Beef, assuming that would be the best way to ensure every morsel was well seasoned.

However, much to my surprise, seasoning the outside of the patties actually delivered a better, more flavorful burger. The seasoning helped form the crust of the burger, and there was plenty of flavor in each bite.

There’s one other benefit to this method. Seasoning only the outside involves less handling of the meat, which makes for an ultra tender burger.

When should you season burgers?

The best time to season burgers is right before they go on the grill or pan. Salt actually draws moisture out of the meat, so we want to add it at the last possible moment to ensure our burgers stay nice and juicy.

Wait until your pan or grill is preheated, then season your burgers and put them right on the grill.

Be sure to visit this post on How to Grill Burgers for more tips to make the juiciest burgers!

Raw burger patties sprinkled with seasoning on a sheet pan.

More FAQs

How long does hamburger seasoning keep?

The seasoning should be stored at room temperature in an airtight container, like these. It will keep for several months. In fact, you could even gift little jars of it to friends and family! It would make a great stocking stuffer.

Can I double it?

Absolutely! Feel free to double or even triple the recipe if you prefer.

How much seasoning do I use?

I use approximately 1 teaspoon of seasoning for every pound of beef. This mix will be enough for 12-15 burgers. To be honest, I season by eye. The seasoning should lightly cover the entire surface of the patties. If it passes the eye test, you’re good!

Metal teaspoons scooping burger seasoning out of a glass bowl.

Burger Recipes to Try It Out

You can use this seasoning blend to amp up any kind of burger. We love it on grilled or Air Fried Burgers, but if you really want to go all out, try it on these Mushroom Swiss Burgers or Double Bacon Cheeseburgers.

You can also use this seasoning on steak!

Burger Seasoning

This simple blend of 6 spices is an incredible seasoning for burgers, steaks and more!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 mins
Servings: 12 burgers

Ingredients

  • 4 teaspoons Kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
  • 3 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 3 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional

Instructions

  • Add all of the seasonings to a bowl and whisk together. Seasoning keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature. Use approximately 1 teaspoon for every pound of meat (or 3-4 burgers).
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword burger seasoning, hamburger seasoning

Nutrition

Serving: 1g

Chili

Slow Cooker Goulash with Hamburger

This American Slow Cooker Goulash with hamburger and pasta is a warm comforting all-in-one meal that makes dinnertime easy.

On days when you need more time with family and friends, reach for this Goulash recipe. The hands-off cooking of the slow cooker gives you time to socialize, and when they smell this Goulash simmering away, you won't have any trouble gathering them at the dinner table.

When it comes to flexibility, this recipe delivers. It’s a meal where you can add in extra vegetables and ingredients and the kids won’t even notice. (They’ll be too busy playing with the noodles).

Slow Cooker Goulash works around your schedule. If needed, it can be on the table in two and a half hours, or it can simmer in the slow cooker all day and be ready whenever the kids start asking “what’s for dinner?”

Bread and a spoon in a bowl of slow cooker goulash.

And it’s not JUST for dinner! Goulash is great at potlucks, parties, or even picnics. And since you’ll be making a whole crock pot full of the stuff, you’ll have leftovers to send for work and school lunches. Just make sure you have a Thermos that’s up to the task.

The benefit of this Goulash (and almost any Slow Cooker Recipe) is walking into the house and being greeted by the sweet smells of dinner essentially cooking itself. The savory aromas of simmering tomato sauce and meat, evoke the classic comforting dinners Mom used to cook when you were little.

Plus, any anxieties about meal prep or cleanup melt away when you remember that this Slow Cooker Goulash has everything necessary for your meal all in one, so grab a bowl, and get ready for a cozy night at home with a full belly.

A few bowls of crock pot goulash with hamburger.

Why You Are Going to Love This Slow Cooker Goulash

  • It is easy. 15 minutes of prep, and then dump and run.
  • This recipe uses simple ingredients that you already have around.
  • Goulash is an all-in-one meal, so no side dishes are needed.
  • It has mass appeal. Whether you're a meat lover, a kid who plays with their food, or a parent who just wants their kid to eat a dang vegetable once this decade; there's something here for everyone.
All of the ingredients for slow cooker goulash on a table.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Ground beef - An 80-90% lean meat is perfect, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a new flavor.
  • Vegetables - This recipe uses staples like onion and green peppers. For a twist, try substituting leeks for the onions. You could even add mushrooms. Portobellos have a hearty texture and do well in tomato dishes. If you add some chopped up spinach, no one will even notice and they’ll get the benefit of getting more leafy greens.
  • Seasoning - Italian seasoning (a combination of rosemary, oregano, basil, thyme, and sage) is what flavors this version. Though, we also really like Cavender's Greek Seasoning for a more peppery/less herby alternative. If you like more kick, add Hungarian paprika to the pot—it’s from the nightshade family the same as tomatoes and works great in red sauces.
  • Pasta - This recipe calls for elbow macaroni, but just about any pasta will work. If your kids are picky eaters, use a fun pasta shape like some twirly noodles, wagon wheel pasta, or any of these fun pasta shapes.
  • Cheddar cheese - Classic sharp cheddar is our favorite, but this White American Cheese is a close second. Really any blend of melting cheeses will work here, (Provolone, Swiss, smoked Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Muenster) so let your preference be your guide.
  • Ground beef and veggies in a crock pot.
  • Tomato sauce covers slow cooker goulash ingredients.
  • Diced tomatoes herbs and spices are added to the slow cooker goulash.

How To Make Slow Cooker Goulash With Hamburger

  1. Sear meat - brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain the fat before adding it to your slow cooker.
  2. Cook vegetables - this is why this recipe is so easy! You throw in all the vegetables and spices and let the slow cooker do its magic, melding the flavors together.
  3. Stir in pasta - after cooking the meat, vegetables, and spices, you just toss in the pasta and let it cook until finished.
  4. After it’s done simmering - add the cheese last! The heat will melt it, and then, you’re set.
  5. Serve with a side salad and enjoy with family and friends. This meal makes great leftovers.
  • A pot full of slow cooker goulash simmering.
  • Spiral macaroni pasta is added to slow cooker goulash.
  • As the last step, cheese is stirred into slow cooker goulash.

Tips & FAQs for Making Slow Cooker Goulash with Hamburger

  • If you cook your ground beef in the crock pot (*some slow cookers have a mode for browning meat) just remember that you will still have to drain the fat.
  • This recipe is infinitely flexible and perfect for helping you clear our the pantry or your refrigerator's produce drawer. When making additions to this recipe, just remember to drain any canned veggies, and always add cheese last.
  • Store your leftover Crock Pot Goulash in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s easy to warm up in the microwave.
Closeup on a spoonful of slow cooker goulash with hamburger.
A bowl of slow cooker goulash with hamburger and bread.

Slow Cooker Goulash

Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs 45 mins
Total Time: 3 hrs
Servings: 6

Equipment

  • large nonstick skillet
  • wooden spoon
  • Slow Cooker

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup onion diced
  • ½ cup green pepper diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 24 ounce jar pasta sauce
  • 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
  • 2 Tablespoons soy sauce
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  • Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s cooked through, drain the fat and add it to your slow cooker.
  • Add all of the remaining ingredients except the macaroni and cheese to the slow cooker.
  • Cover and cook on the high setting for 2 hours or on the low setting for 4 hours.
  • After the allotted cook time, add the macaroni and let it cook an additional 30-35 minutes until the noodles reach the desired consistency.
  • Turn off the heat. Add the cheese and stir it into the pasta.
  • Serve immediately so the noodles do not get mushy.

Notes

In place of Italian seasoning, you can use the following:
½ teaspoon rosemary
1 teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon basil
1 teaspoon thyme
½ teaspoon sage
Alternatively, you can cook the pasta separately and stir it into the crock pot ingredients right before serving.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword American Goulash, Goulash in Crock Pot, Goulash with Hamburger

More Meaty Recipes

If you like the flavors in this Slow Cooker Goulash, try the casserole version! My Johnny Marzetti recipe is packed with tender pasta and tomato sauce and topped with melty baked cheese.

Also don't skip my Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup. It's easy to make and it's also packed with classic American flavors.

Looking for some magic beans? Then try my recipe for Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef. This hearty favorite can be a main or a side dish, and it really warms you up!

Burgers & Sandwiches

Mushroom Swiss Burger

This classic Mushroom Swiss Burger Recipe combines tender beef patties with melty Swiss cheese, golden mushrooms, and caramelized onions for one epic burger.

When I crave a burger, it’s usually something classic, like a Double Bacon Cheeseburger, but if I’m feeling the urge to venture out, my first stop is always a Mushroom Swiss Burger.

Mushrooms and Swiss cheese are a combo I find hard to resist. I love a gooey Mushroom Swiss Grilled Cheese or a Portobello Mushroom Sandwich, but I don’t think there’s any place I love this duo more than piled on top of a juicy burger.

Mushroom and Swiss Burger with caramelized onions on a cast iron plate with a pint of ginger ale in the background.

While mushroom and Swiss makes a fine pair, I don’t think it’s quite complete without the addition of caramelized onions. The three of these together is the Holy Trinity of burgers, adding plenty of umami, creaminess, and a hint of sweetness.

Today, I’ll show you how to make my favorite Mushroom Swiss Burger. The process is pretty simple, but the caramelized onions do take some time. Feel free to omit them, or make them in advance so they’re ready to go whenever you’re craving a burger!

How to Make Caramelized Onions for Burgers

First up, onions! You’ll only need about 1 onion worth of caramelized onions for these burgers, but I always caramelize 3-4 at a time. You can store any leftovers in the fridge and use them on Meatball Subs or Red Wine Burgers.

  1. In a large stainless steel skillet, add a few Tablespoons of oil or butter (about 1 Tablespoon for each onion) along with a big ol’ pile of onions. Turn the heat to medium, cover, and cook, stirring regularly, until the onions are softened and starting to brown, about 7-9 minutes.
  2. Uncover, turn the heat to low, and continue to cook, stirring often, until the onions are very soft, sweet, and a deep brown color. If the onion starts to stick at any point, add a splash of water and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze. I usually have to do this 3-4 times throughout the process.
  3. You can remove the onions in as little as 30 minutes, or cook them for an hour or longer. They will continue to get softer and sweeter as you go. I take mine out around the 45 minute mark. Season with salt before serving.
  • Deep stainless steel skillet with a lot of sliced yellow onions in it.
  • A deep stainless steel skillet filled with caramelized onions.

Quick Pan Fried Mushrooms

I love using crimini mushrooms for this recipe, but white mushrooms work as well.

  1. Once the onions are done, remove them from the pan and deglaze again. Add a Tablespoon of butter to the skillet along with 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms.
  2. Let the mushrooms cook WITHOUT stirring, 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown on one side. Flip and continue to cook until browned on both sides. Add a minced garlic clove and saute for about a minute, then season to taste with salt.

For the Mushroom and Swiss Burger Patties:

Ingredients for mushroom swiss burgers on a sheet pan. Includes the raw burger patties, plus bowls of sauteed mushrooms and carmalized onions, cheese slices, and buns.

I use my standard burger seasoning for this recipe, and form ¼-⅓ pound burgers.

Quick tips for super tender burgers:

  • Handle the meat as little as possible.
  • Gently form balls then press into patties.
  • Leave an indent in the center to prevent an overly domed burger.

From there, you just have to cook! I’ve included instructions for cooking these burgers in a cast iron skillet, but you can also click here to learn how to grill burgers, and here for air fryer hamburgers.

Whichever method you choose, add a slice (or two!) of Swiss cheese to your burger for the last 1-2 minutes of cook time.

Three burger patties in a cast iron skillet with melted Swiss cheese on top.

Assembling your Epic Caramelized Onion, Mushroom and Swiss Burger


Now is the fun part. Assembly!

First, let’s talk about buns. I LOVE a good brioche bun for burgers, but you also can’t go wrong with a sesame seed or onion roll. Choose whatever makes your heart go pitter patter.

If you want to make your burger extra special, brush the buns with oil or melted butter and pop them in a skillet over medium heat (you can use the same one you used to cook the onions and mushrooms). They should be perfectly warm and toasty brown in 2-3 minutes.

Now, add your cooked burgers (dripping with cheese) to the top of a bun slathered with mayo.

Pile high with mushrooms and caramelized onions, then top with another bun, also slathered in mayo. I never skip the sauce, even for a burger with all these yummy toppings. It pulls everything together!

Feel free to add greens (leaf lettuce, arugula, or spinach), or leave it plain.

Top down image of a burger with caramelized onions and mushrooms on top.

More Burger Recipes You'll Love!

Or get your cheeseburger fix with this Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup.

Burger layered with lettuce, burger patty, Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, and mushrooms, with a sesame seed bun.

Mushroom Swiss Burger

These burgers are piled high with Swiss cheese, sauteed mushrooms, and caramelized onions for a super satisfying and flavorful burger!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hr
Servings: 5
Calories: 646kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the onions:

  • 3-4 sweet or yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 3 Tablespoons butter oil, or a blend of both
  • Water
  • Kosher salt

For the mushrooms:

  • 1 Tablespoon butter
  • 8 ounces crimini mushrooms sliced
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • Kosher salt and pepper to taste

For the burgers:

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon burger seasoning
  • 5 thick slices Swiss cheese
  • 5 brioche buns
  • Lettuce or Arugula optional
  • Mayonnaise optional

Instructions

For the onions:

  • In a large stainless steel skillet, add the butter and the onions. Turn the heat to medium, cover, and cook, stirring regularly, until the onions are softened and starting to brown, about 7-9 minutes.
  • Uncover, turn the heat to low, and continue to cook, stirring often, until the onions are very soft, sweet, and a deep brown color. If the onion starts to stick at any point, add a splash of water and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze. I usually have to do this 3-4 times throughout the process.
  • You can remove the onions in as little as 30 minutes, or cook them for an hour or longer. They will continue to get softer and sweeter as you go. I take mine out around the 45 minute mark. Season to taste with salt.

For the mushrooms:

  • Deglaze the onion pan. Melt the butter in the skillet and add the mushrooms.
  • Let them cook WITHOUT stirring, 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown on one side. Flip and continue to cook until browned on both sides. Add the garlic and saute for about a minute, then season to taste with salt.

For the burgers:

  • Gently shape the beef into five equal sized balls then use the palm of your hand to press them into a flat patty shape. It’s okay if the edges aren’t perfectly round. Use your thumb to press an indent into the center of each patty, then sprinkle both sides with burger seasoning.
  • Heat a cast iron skillet over medium high heat. Add the patties and cook until browned on the bottom, about 4-5 minutes. Flip over, and cook an additional 3-4 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Add the cheese for the last 2 minutes of cooking.
  • To assemble, spread the mayonnaise on the buns (if using). Top each one with a burger patty, caramelized onions, and mushrooms. Add greens if desired. Serve.

Notes

Caramelized onions can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword caramelized onion and mushroom burger, mushroom swiss cheeseburger

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 646kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 55g | Fat: 31g | Cholesterol: 175mg | Sodium: 478mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g | Calcium: 272mg | Iron: 27mg

Chili

Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef

When the cowpokes are hungry, these vittles will keep your posse coming back for more. (*read it again, but in Sam Elliot's voice) Try Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef tonight!

When you want that slow-cooked flavor, this recipe will hit the spot. Once it’s simmering, you can relax until it’s time to ring the dinner bell.

It’s potluck season, and you don’t know what to take. Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef is the perfect solution for feeding a hungry crowd. And though it's simple to make, the flavors are incredible, so watch out for the stampede!

A table set with a few bowls of cowboy baked beans with ground beef.

This hearty meal is easily cooked on the stove top, but also makes a great Slow Cooker recipe when you don’t feel like sweating over a pot or heating up the house.

I start making this early and use the crock pot, so that I will have plenty of time to make other dishes or set up for a gathering. And while this is a great meal for a party, I can guarantee you’ll want it for a family meal too, because it’s so easy, and, like with a good Chili recipe, it puts everything you need into one bowl.

Though, Cowboy Baked Beans go great with Cornbread, Drop Biscuits, Air Fryer Tortilla Chips, or many other side dishes, this recipe has it all, so no side is required..

A spoon stirs a pot of Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef.

Why You Are Going To Love It!

  • This meal only takes 15 minutes of prep time so it is a cinch to make.
  • You can use your crock pot for that slow-cooked flavor without tending a kettle all day.
  • The flavors melt together, and the red pepper flakes give it a kick like a mule!
  • It’s perfect with so many other dishes, thought it stands out. No fading into the background of other potluck dishes for THESE beans.
  • Besides maybe Chopped Steaks and Gravy, there's about no more comforting hearty meal than a hot bowl of these beefy barbecue beans. Heck, you can almost close your eyes and imagine eating these after making camp out on the trail.
All of the ingredients for cowboy baked beans recipe in prep bowls.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Bacon - Nothing replaces the flavor of bacon. Know that. Substitute turkey bacon or sausage only if bandits pilfered your bacon stash.
  • Vegetables - Sweet onions and green peppers are the keys to this meal, but you can add in Anaheim peppers or even something with more heat if you like it hot.
  • Ground beef - An 80-90% lean meat is perfect, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken if you must.
  • Beans - We’ve got a combo of three beans for you, including baked, black, and kidney, but you can also add in pinto or your favorite. White beans work great with turkey.
  • Sauce and spices - If you don’t want it as sweet, substitute ketchup for the barbecue sauce. Another twist on adding brown sugar is to add honey or maple syrup (the good stuff, not imitation). These spices enhance the entire dish of cowboy baked beans.
  • All the ingredients for cowboy baked beans with ground beef ready to cook in a pot.
  • Cowboy baked beans with hamburger in a pot.

How To Make Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef

  1. Sear meat - First, you need to cook the bacon in a skillet until it’s crisp, but keep the grease. After you finish the vegetables, you’ll brown your ground beef.
  2. Cook the vegetables - Back on the ranch, the cook always used the leftover bacon grease, and now, you are too. This adds another layer of smoky flavor to the final dish. It only takes about 5 minutes for the onions to become translucent.
  3. Stir in remaining ingredients - Once you finish with the meat and vegetables, you’ll add in the beans, sauce, and spices.
  4. Simmer until cooked - Turn down the heat and kick up your heels. (Unless you’re ready to make the side dish.) You’ve got 30 minutes before the posse gets these Cowboy Baked Beans.
  5. Serve - Can you believe it when I tell you this meal feeds up to 12 people? That’s quite a crowd who won’t go away hungry tonight.
A bowl of cowboy baked beans topped with bacon.

Tips & FAQs for Making Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef

If you’re using a Crock pot slower cooker, plan on letting this dish simmer for 4 hours, giving you even more time to get ready for your hoedown.

Cowboy Beans with Hamburger is great served as a main dish with a Garden Salad or some Amish White Bread. It also perfectly compliments Hamburgers, grilled chicken, or ribs, so keep this recipe in mind as a killer cookout side.

Got leftovers? Baked beans with hamburger can get stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. It’s easy to reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stove top. You can add these to some Nachos, or roll them up into a Burrito. Try adding a fried egg on top and these Cowboy Baked Beans to put some giddy-up in your breakfast.

A hearty bowl of Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef.

Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef

This hearty dish is packed with BBQ ground beef, veggies, and beans. Sturdy enough for a main course, but it's perfect as a potluck side dish.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hr
Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
Servings: 12

Equipment

  • large nonstick skillet
  • chefs knife
  • wooden spoon

Ingredients

  • ½ pound bacon cut into ½” wide strips
  • ½ cup sweet onion diced
  • ½ cup green pepper diced
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 28 oz can baked beans
  • 1 15 oz can black beans drained
  • 1 15 oz can kidney beans drained
  • ½ cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder
  • 3 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  • Cook the bacon strips in a large non-stick skillet over medium low heat until crispy. Remove the bacon to a plate, leaving the bacon grease behind.
  • Add the onions and green peppers to the bacon grease. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until the onions are translucent. Remove the onions and peppers, combine them with the bacon. Pour off any excess bacon grease.
  • Add ground beef to the skillet and brown over medium heat. Once the ground beef is browned, pour off excess fat.
  • Add the garlic to the beef and cook for 1 minute.
  • Add the bacon, onions and green peppers, baked beans and sauce to the pan with the ground beef. Then add the drained black beans and kidney beans.
  • Then add in the remaining ingredients: barbecue sauce, brown sugar, mustard powder, vinegar, salt, red pepper and black pepper. Stir everything together.
  • Cover and reduce the heat to medium low. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Notes

Substitute ketchup for BBQ sauce for a less sweet option.
This would make a great crock pot dish. Once all of the ingredients are combined, simply add to your crock pot and cook on low heat for 4 hours.
We ate this as a main dish served with a side of cornbread. It also makes the perfect side for burgers and hot dogs, including Air Fryer Burgers or Ranch Burgers. Perfect for a potluck or cookout.
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Keyword Baked Beans with Hamburger, Cowboy Beans with Hamburger

Side Dishes and Pairings

As mentioned above, this recipe for Cowboy Baked Beans with ground beef goes great with cornbread, and a simple fresh salad (think Cucumber Tomato Salad, or some of this Lemon Dill Coleslaw.)

If you want to double-down on the southwest theme, pair it with this Okra Corn and Tomato Salad, or this Mexican Street Corn Dip.

This recipe is potluck perfect and fits right in beside a Knorr Spinach Dip, or a bowl of Italian Bowtie Pasta Salad.