The Best Homemade Ground Beef Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade ground beef recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. You’ll love how easy it is to customize and make it your own!
- Quick and easy—ready in under 20 minutes, with minimal prep and cleanup.
- Versatile—use it in tacos, pasta, casseroles, or even stuffed peppers.
- Budget-friendly—ground beef is affordable and stretches into multiple meals.
Recipe

This homemade ground beef recipe is simple, versatile, and perfect for a variety of dishes from tacos to pasta sauces. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful base that’s ready to enhance your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly over the meat.
- Cook the beef, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet using a spoon or by transferring the beef to a paper towel-lined plate.
Notes:
- Adjust seasoning to taste or add additional spices like cumin or paprika for extra flavor.
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
Equipment:
- Large skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
Time:
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
4 servings
Nutrition
This homemade ground beef recipe provides essential nutrients to support your daily dietary needs. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugars | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 75 mg |
| Sodium | 70 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade ground beef with classic side dishes like roasted veggies or a crisp salad, but sometimes I’ll mix it up with garlic mashed potatoes or crusty bread. A cold soda or lemonade works great for a casual meal, though I’ll grab a glass of red wine for something fancier. Balance is key, so I always choose sides and drinks that complement the rich flavors without overpowering them.
Side Dishes
When you’re whipping up a batch of homemade ground beef, it’s easy to focus just on the main dish, but pairing it with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. I love serving it with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice—they soak up all the delicious flavors. Roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts add a nice crunch, and a simple green salad keeps things fresh. Garlic bread is always a hit, especially if you’re going for a cozy vibe. Don’t forget corn on the cob or baked beans for a summery twist. The options are endless!
Beverage Pairings
There’s nothing like a hearty plate of homemade ground beef, but let’s not forget the drinks that bring it all together. For me, a cold soda or iced tea hits the spot—it’s invigorating and balances the richness of the beef. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll pair it with a light red wine, like a Pinot Noir, which complements the savory flavors. On warmer days, a chilled beer works wonders, especially a crisp lager or amber ale. And for a family-friendly option, I love serving it with lemonade or sparkling water with a slice of lime—simple, but always satisfying. Cheers!