Ground beef is a versatile and budget-friendly ingredient that can be used in a variety of delicious and satisfying meals. These cheap dinner ideas with ground beef will keep your family happy while saving money.

1. Beef Tacos

Tacos are a fun and easy dinner option that everyone loves. Plus, they’re customizable and budget-friendly.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound ground beef ($2.00)
• 8 taco shells ($1.50)
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce ($0.50)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese ($1.00)
• 1/2 cup salsa ($1.00)

Total cost for 4 servings: Approximately $6.00

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground beef in a skillet until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
2. Assemble the tacos with ground beef, lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
3. Serve with extra salsa or sour cream on the side.

2. Beef and Rice Skillet

This beef and rice skillet is an all-in-one dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound ground beef ($2.00)
• 1 cup rice ($0.50)
• 1 can diced tomatoes ($1.00)
• 1/2 cup corn ($0.50)
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning ($0.25)

Total cost for 4 servings: Approximately $4.25

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet until browned, then add the rice, tomatoes, corn, and seasoning.
2. Add 2 cups of water, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the flavors are combined.

3. Meatballs and Spaghetti

Meatballs and spaghetti is a classic, filling dinner that’s both affordable and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound ground beef ($2.00)
• 1 egg ($0.25)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs ($0.25)
• 1/2 box spaghetti ($0.75)
• 1 jar marinara sauce ($1.50)

Total cost for 4 servings: Approximately $4.75

Instructions:

1. Mix the ground beef with the egg and breadcrumbs, then shape into small meatballs.
2. Cook the meatballs in a skillet until browned, then add the marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Serve the meatballs over cooked spaghetti.

4. Beef and Bean Chili

A hearty beef and bean chili is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound ground beef ($2.00)
• 1 can kidney beans ($1.00)
• 1 can diced tomatoes ($1.00)
• 1 packet chili seasoning ($0.75)

Total cost for 4 servings: Approximately $4.75

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground beef in a pot until browned, then add the beans, tomatoes, and chili seasoning.
2. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and flavors meld together.

5. Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef

Stuffed peppers are a great way to make a hearty, balanced meal using ground beef and fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound ground beef ($2.00)
• 4 large bell peppers ($2.00)
• 1 cup cooked rice ($0.50)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese ($1.00)

Total cost for 4 servings: Approximately $5.50

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
2. Brown the ground beef and mix with the cooked rice and half the cheese.
3. Stuff the peppers with the beef mixture, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 25 minutes.

Conclusion

These cheap dinner ideas with ground beef are perfect for families or individuals looking to make delicious meals without spending a lot of money. Whether you go for beef tacos, stuffed peppers, or beef and rice skillet, you’ll enjoy tasty, budget-friendly dinners that are easy to make and packed with flavor.