Recipes with Ground Beef in a Crock Pot: 7 Easy Meals

If you’re looking for easy, delicious, and comforting meals, recipes with ground beef in a crock pot are the perfect solution.

Whether you’re feeding a busy family or preparing a week’s worth of meals, the slow cooker makes it simple to create hearty dishes with minimal effort.

From chili to casseroles, these recipes are not only flavorful but also incredibly convenient.

Hearty Recipe With Ground Beef Chili in a Crock Pot

Recipe by Calven ArlithCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

5

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

5

hours 

Calories per Serving

400

kcal

Total time

5

hours 

10

minutes

Discover easy and delicious recipes with ground beef in a crock pot that make meal prep a breeze.
From hearty stews to flavorful tacos, these dishes are perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Directions

• Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
• Transfer the cooked beef to the crock pot. Add the chopped onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, beef broth, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• Stir to combine and cover the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
• If desired, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese before serving.

Notes

• You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• For a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili powder or add jalapeños.
• This recipe can be served over rice or with cornbread for a complete meal.

Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chili: A Hearty Classic

If you’re looking for a warm, filling meal that’s perfect for chilly nights, Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chili is a must-try.

This recipe is packed with bold flavors, tender beef, and a variety of spices that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Best of all, it’s super easy to make, thanks to the slow cooker!

The Key Ingredients for a Perfect Chili

To make a delicious ground beef chili, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:

• Ground beef (of course)
• Tomatoes
• Kidney beans
• Onions and garlic
• Chili powder, cumin, and paprika

These ingredients come together to create a rich, hearty dish that will keep you full for hours.

How Long Should You Cook Chili in a Slow Cooker?

The beauty of chili is that you can cook it low and slow, letting the flavors meld together.

Generally, you’ll want to cook your ground beef chili in the slow cooker for about 6-8 hours on low heat.

This allows the beef to become tender and the spices to fully infuse the dish.

Tips for Adding Extra Flavor

If you want to give your chili a little extra kick, try adding some chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.

For a richer flavor, you can also sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker.

Ground Beef Tacos in a Crock Pot: Quick and Flavorful

Ground beef tacos are a family favorite, and with a Crock Pot, you can make them even easier! With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, these tacos will quickly become a go-to weeknight meal.

What Makes Crock Pot Tacos So Easy?

One of the best things about making tacos in a slow cooker is that it takes all the stress out of cooking.

You don’t have to stand over the stove, stirring and watching the meat. Simply add your ground beef, seasonings, and other ingredients to the pot, and let the slow cooker work its magic.

The Perfect Taco Seasoning for Ground Beef

You have the option to use a ready-made taco seasoning blend or prepare your own. A homemade mix might include:

• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika

These spices give your tacos that perfect Tex-Mex flavor.

Serving Ideas for Ground Beef Tacos

Once your tacos are ready, serve them with your favorite toppings. Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and salsa are all great choices.

If you want a healthier twist, try using lettuce wraps instead of taco shells!

Beef Stew with Ground Beef: Comfort Food in a Pot

When the weather turns cold, nothing beats a hearty bowl of beef stew. This recipe uses ground beef for a quicker, more affordable version of the classic dish, without sacrificing any of the comforting flavors.

Why Use Ground Beef in Stew?

Traditionally, beef stew uses chunks of beef, but using ground beef in the slow cooker speeds up the cooking time while still providing a rich, satisfying flavor.

Ground beef also soaks up all the delicious broth, making each bite tender and flavorful.

Ground Beef vs. Stew Meat

Ground beef works great in this recipe because it breaks down into smaller pieces, blending perfectly with the vegetables.

If you prefer a chunkier stew, you can still add small pieces of stew meat along with the ground beef.

Best Ground Beef for Stew

For a lean stew, opt for 90% lean ground beef. It will give you great flavor without too much excess fat. If you want a richer stew, 80% lean ground beef is a good choice.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Beef Stew

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground beef
• Potatoes, carrots, onions, and celery
• Beef broth
• Tomatoes
• Bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary

Throw all these ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it cook slowly until everything is tender and melded together.

How to Build Layers of Flavor

Begin by searing the ground beef in a pan prior to placing it in the slow cooker. This helps release the beef’s flavor, making the stew more savory.

You can also sauté your vegetables beforehand to bring out their natural sweetness.

Thickening the Stew

If your stew turns out a little too thin, you can thicken it by stirring in some flour or cornstarch mixed with water. Alternatively, mash some of the potatoes and stir them in for a creamy texture.

Crock Pot Ground Beef Casserole: A One-Pot Dinner

When you want a complete meal with minimal cleanup, a Crock Pot Ground Beef Casserole is the perfect solution.

This dish combines ground beef, pasta, and cheese into a mouthwatering, one-pot dinner that your whole family will love.

What Makes a Good Ground Beef Casserole?

The key to a successful Crock Pot casserole is layering the ingredients so that everything cooks evenly.

You’ll want to start with a hearty layer of ground beef, then add in your vegetables, pasta, and cheese.

The Role of Pasta in Casserole

Pasta is the backbone of any casserole. It absorbs all the flavors from the ground beef and seasonings as it cooks, making each bite delicious.

Use any type of pasta you like—penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work especially well.

Choosing the Right Cheese

Cheese is what makes casseroles so creamy and comforting. Try mixing different kinds like cheddar, mozzarella, or even cream cheese for extra richness.

Easy Variations for Casserole

While the classic recipe is tasty on its own, feel free to customize it to your liking. You can add:

• Spinach for a pop of color and nutrition
• Mushrooms for a savory flavor boost
• Bell peppers for a crunchy texture

How to Ensure a Creamy Casserole

To get the creamiest casserole, make sure to stir the ground beef and cheese mixture halfway through the cooking time.

This ensures the cheese melts into the sauce and coats all the ingredients.

Baking vs. Slow Cooking: Which Is Better?

While you can bake a casserole in the oven, the slow cooker method offers a more hands-off approach.

Slow cooking lets the flavors develop slowly, and everything stays moist without drying out.

Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup: Hearty and Healthy

If you’re craving something light yet filling, Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup is a great option.

It’s packed with nutritious vegetables, savory ground beef, and a flavorful broth. This recipe is perfect for a cozy meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Why Add Ground Beef to Vegetable Soup?

Adding ground beef to vegetable soup not only boosts the protein content but also infuses the soup with a rich, meaty flavor.

The ground beef helps to thicken the broth and make the soup more hearty, without overpowering the fresh taste of the vegetables.

Ground Beef for Soup: The Best Cut

For soup, lean ground beef (around 85% lean) works best. It provides enough fat to flavor the soup without leaving it greasy.

If you prefer a leaner option, you can use 90% lean ground beef, but be sure to add extra seasonings to keep the flavor rich.

Ground Beef’s Role in Soup Texture

Ground beef in soup will break down into small pieces as it cooks, adding texture to the broth.

As it simmers, the beef absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients, giving the soup a satisfying depth of flavor.

Vegetables to Include in Your Soup

For a well-balanced and colorful soup, consider using:

• Carrots
• Celery
• Potatoes
• Green beans
• Tomatoes
• Spinach or kale

These veggies will not only add flavor but also provide a variety of nutrients, making the soup both tasty and good for you.

Prepping Vegetables for Soup

Chop all your vegetables into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly in the slow cooker.

Some vegetables, like potatoes, can break down during cooking, so cutting them smaller will help them cook faster and blend into the soup.

How Long to Cook Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup?

In the slow cooker, this soup needs about 6-8 hours on low heat to fully develop its flavor. The vegetables will soften, and the ground beef will become tender and absorb the broth’s flavors.

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff: Creamy and Delicious

A creamy, rich beef stroganoff is a classic comfort food, and using ground beef makes it even more accessible.

This slow cooker version is perfect for busy days when you want a warm, filling meal with minimal effort.

What Makes Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Special?

The beauty of slow cooker beef stroganoff lies in the simplicity. You don’t need to sear the meat or cook anything on the stove; just toss all your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work.

The slow cooking process results in a super tender beef that pairs perfectly with a rich, creamy sauce.

Key Ingredients for Beef Stroganoff

Here’s what you’ll need for a simple yet delicious beef stroganoff:

• Ground beef
• Onion, garlic, and mushrooms
• Beef broth
• Sour cream
• Dijon mustard
• Egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)

These ingredients come together to create a creamy, tangy sauce that coats the ground beef and noodles perfectly.

How to Make the Sauce Creamy

The creaminess of beef stroganoff comes from a combination of sour cream and beef broth.

If you want a richer sauce, you can add a bit of cream cheese or heavy cream. Stir in the sour cream at the end of cooking to avoid curdling.

Best Pasta for Stroganoff

Traditionally, egg noodles are used in stroganoff because they’re soft and hold up well in the creamy sauce.

However, you can also use other types of pasta, such as penne or rotini, depending on your preference.

The Importance of Adding Sour Cream Last

Sour cream is a key ingredient that gives beef stroganoff its signature tangy flavor. Add it near the end of the cooking time so it doesn’t curdle, and stir it in gently to create that smooth, velvety texture.

How Long to Cook Beef Stroganoff in the Slow Cooker?

In a slow cooker, beef stroganoff cooks on low for 6-8 hours. This allows the ground beef to become tender, and the flavors to meld together.

Just be sure to stir in the sour cream during the last 20-30 minutes.

Crock Pot Ground Beef Meatballs: Perfect for Dipping

Crock Pot Ground Beef Meatballs are an easy, hands-off way to make a crowd-pleasing snack or meal.

Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or pairing them with pasta, these meatballs are always a hit!

Why Use a Slow Cooker for Meatballs?

Making meatballs in the slow cooker is a fantastic way to ensure they stay moist and tender.

The gentle heat allows them to cook through without drying out. Plus, the slow cooking process lets the meatballs absorb all the flavors from the sauce.

Making Perfect Meatballs

To make juicy meatballs, use a combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

This blend keeps the meatballs soft and flavorful. If you want to add some extra richness, a little grated parmesan cheese works wonders.

How to Form Meatballs

When shaping your meatballs, aim for uniform size to ensure they cook evenly. A tablespoon-sized scoop or an ice cream scoop is a great tool to make sure all the meatballs are roughly the same size.

The Best Sauce for Meatballs

For an easy yet delicious meatball sauce, a simple tomato sauce with some added seasoning is perfect.

You can also try a BBQ sauce or sweet and sour sauce for a different flavor profile. Simply pour your sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker and let them cook for a few hours.

Cooking Meatballs in Sauce

Once you’ve added your meatballs to the sauce, cook on low for 4-6 hours. The meatballs will soak up all the sauce’s flavor while remaining tender. You can even use the sauce as a dip when serving!

Serving Suggestions for Meatballs

These meatballs can be served in numerous ways and are adaptable:

• On toothpicks for easy appetizers
• On a sub roll with melted cheese for meatball sandwiches
• With pasta for a full meal

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: A Budget-Friendly Meal

If you’re looking for an affordable, filling meal that’s also simple to make, Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a fantastic choice.

It’s a one-dish dinner that combines hearty ground beef and rice, topped with cheese for a comforting, satisfying meal.

Why is Ground Beef and Rice Casserole So Popular?

This casserole is a staple in many households because it’s easy to make and budget-friendly.

Ground beef is an inexpensive protein, and when paired with rice, it stretches the meal to serve a family. Plus, the cheese on top adds a creamy texture and extra flavor.

Essential Ingredients for the Casserole

You’ll need:

• Ground beef
• Rice (white or brown)
• Onion, garlic, and bell peppers
• Tomato sauce or diced tomatoes
• Cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works well)

These ingredients come together to form a simple yet hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone.

How to Cook the Rice in the Slow Cooker

For best results, use uncooked rice in the slow cooker. It will absorb the flavors of the ground beef and broth while it cooks, becoming perfectly tender by the time the casserole is ready.

Adding Flavor to the Casserole

Spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic powder can elevate the flavor of your casserole. You can also toss in some frozen vegetables or beans to add extra nutrition and texture.

Layering for Maximum Flavor

To make sure the flavors mix together evenly, layer the rice, ground beef, and sauce in the slow cooker. Top it all off with cheese, and let it cook on low for about 4-6 hours.

How to Avoid Dry Rice

Slow cooking rice can sometimes result in dry or overcooked rice. To avoid this, ensure that there’s enough liquid in the slow cooker—adding a bit more broth or water will help the rice cook properly.

How to Make the Best Ground Beef in a Slow Cooker

Making ground beef in the slow cooker is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to prepare a variety of meals.

Whether you’re making chili, tacos, or a casserole, the slow cooker ensures that your beef turns out tender and packed with flavor. Here’s how to get the best results.

The Right Cut of Ground Beef for Slow Cooking

For most slow cooker recipes, ground beef that is 80% lean or 85% lean works best. It has enough fat to keep the beef moist and flavorful while preventing it from drying out during the long cooking process.

If you prefer leaner meat, you can use 90% lean beef, but you might need to add a little extra seasoning or fat (like olive oil) to keep it juicy.

Browning Ground Beef Before Cooking

While it’s not strictly necessary, browning your ground beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker can boost the flavor.

It helps to release some of the fat and enhances the meat’s flavor. If you’re using lean beef, you might not have much fat to drain, but browning still adds a depth of flavor that slow cooking alone can’t achieve.

Skip the Searing? No Problem!

If you’re in a hurry, you can skip browning and simply add the ground beef directly to the slow cooker.

Just break it apart with a spoon so it cooks evenly. As it cooks, the beef will release some liquid and absorb the other flavors in the recipe.

Seasoning Ground Beef for Maximum Flavor

To really bring out the flavor of ground beef, make sure to season it well. Whether you’re making chili, tacos, or a casserole, use a good mix of spices and herbs to enhance the natural taste of the beef.

Classic seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and chili powder work in almost any recipe.

Adding Salt and Pepper

Season with salt and pepper at the beginning, but you can always adjust the seasoning at the end.

Slow cooking can sometimes mellow out flavors, so taste your dish once it’s done and add more salt or pepper if needed.

Mixing in Sauces and Broth

Many slow cooker recipes call for adding broth, tomato sauce, or other liquid to the ground beef.

This not only keeps the meat from drying out, but also helps distribute the flavors across the entire dish.

How Long to Cook Ground Beef in a Slow Cooker

For ground beef dishes, the cooking time usually ranges from 4 to 8 hours on low heat, depending on the recipe.

You can cook it for longer if you want the meat to be extra tender and break down into smaller pieces.

Just make sure to keep the slow cooker lid closed to maintain moisture.

Meal Prep with Ground Beef: Crock Pot for Easy Weeknight Dinners

One of the best things about ground beef in the slow cooker is how easy it makes meal prep.

You can make large batches of food at once, then divide it into portions for the week.

Whether you’re making chili, tacos, or a stew, using the slow cooker saves you time and effort, especially on busy weeknights.

Why Meal Prep with Ground Beef?

Ground beef is versatile, affordable, and cooks quickly in the slow cooker. It’s a great option for meal prep because it can be used in so many different recipes.

Plus, slow cooking allows you to cook large quantities at once, saving you time and energy during the week.

Preparing Multiple Meals at Once

If you want to stretch your meal prep, consider cooking enough ground beef for a few different meals at once.

For example, you could cook ground beef chili on one day, and use the leftovers to make tacos or a casserole later in the week.

How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef Meals

Once your meals are cooked, divide the food into containers and store them in the fridge for 3-4 days.

If you’re prepping for the week, you can also freeze portions for later. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stove, adding a little water or broth to prevent the dish from drying out.

Tips for Easy Ground Beef Meal Prep

• Batch cook: Prepare several slow cooker meals with ground beef in one go, so you can just grab a container and heat it up during the week.
• Freeze extras: If you have extra ground beef, cook it up and freeze it in meal-sized portions. That way, you always have a quick meal ready.
• Mix up your recipes: To avoid getting bored with the same meals, mix up the seasonings and sauces. You can make chili one day, then tacos or a casserole the next.

Conclusion

Using a slow cooker to cook ground beef is an excellent way to save time, boost flavor, and create hearty meals.

From chili to meatballs, these recipes offer a variety of easy and delicious options for your next family meal.

Whether you’re making dinner for the week or feeding a crowd, the slow cooker is a foolproof tool that ensures your meals come out tender, juicy, and full of flavor.