15 kid-approved ground beef recipes that guarantee that no one will miss takeout for a while

Takeout loses its grip fast when ground beef shows up in kid-friendly, familiar flavors that actually fill everyone up. These recipes keep things simple with quick prep, cozy textures, and big taste that hits the same comfort buttons as your usual order.

Weeknights get easier because ground beef cooks fast, stretches well, and plays nice with pantry staples you already have. Expect dinners that are budget-smart, low-drama, and easy to customize for picky eaters without making separate meals.

Bring on skillet meals, casseroles, tacos, and bowls that feel fun, not fussy, and work for leftovers too. With options like these in rotation, the “can we just get takeout” question starts showing up a lot less.

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Skillet

Everything people love about a Philly cheesesteak shows up here without the sandwich fuss. Ground beef keeps it fast and budget-friendly, while peppers, onions, and melted cheese deliver familiar, comforting flavor kids recognize instantly. Serve it in bowls, spoon it onto toast, or eat it straight from the skillet when dinner needs to happen now.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Skillet

Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole

Broccoli and ground beef turn into pure comfort once cream cheese and mozzarella get involved. The veggies keep things balanced while the cheesy bake keeps kids fully on board. It works just as well fresh from the oven as it does packed up for next-day lunches.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole

Egg Casserole with Ground Beef

Breakfast-for-dinner energy makes any night feel easier. Ground beef, eggs, and a creamy mix bake into a protein-packed casserole that slices clean and fills everyone up. It doubles as a quick reheat option for mornings when time is tight.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole with Ground Beef

Cheeseburger Skillet

Cheeseburger night shows up without buns, flipping, or grill cleanup. Ground beef simmers in a creamy tomato base before getting finished with plenty of melted cheese. Dinner lands on the table in about 20 minutes and reheats perfectly when hunger hits again later.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Skillet

Ground Beef Egg Roll in a Bowl

Egg roll flavor shows up without wrappers, frying, or lingering grease smells. Ground beef and cabbage cook down with savory seasonings in one pan for fast, familiar flavor kids love. Add rice on the side or keep it as-is for a dinner that disappears fast.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Egg Roll in a Bowl

Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Takeout-style flavor comes together faster than delivery ever could. Ground beef browns quickly, broccoli stays tender-crisp, and a simple sauce ties everything together in one pan. Spoon it over rice or noodles and watch plates get cleared without negotiation.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Italian Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet

Hearty comfort meets weeknight speed in one skillet. Ground beef cooks in a creamy tomato sauce while cauliflower rice stretches the dish without making it feel light or skimpy. Mozzarella on top seals the deal and makes leftovers something kids actually ask for.
Get the Recipe: Italian Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet

Lettuce Wraps with Turmeric Infused Ground Beef

A lighter dinner still delivers serious flavor thanks to warmly spiced ground beef. Crisp lettuce adds crunch and makes each bite feel fun instead of forced. Build-your-own wraps turn dinner into something kids actually enjoy participating in.
Get the Recipe: Lettuce Wraps with Turmeric Infused Ground Beef

Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Skillet

Taco night turns into a one-pan win with zero juggling of toppings. Ground beef cooks with seasoning and mix-ins, then cheese melts right over the top for instant crowd appeal. Scoop it with chips, wrap it in tortillas, or eat it straight from the pan when everyone’s starving.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Skillet

Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

When dinner needs to happen immediately, ground beef and cabbage deliver. Everything cooks in one pan in about 20 minutes with flavor that feels familiar and filling. Serve it alone or over rice for a fast meal that doesn’t feel like a backup plan.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Hamburger

Cheesesteak vibes come through loud and clear without using steak or rolls. Ground beef, peppers, onions, and cheese bake into a hot, scoopable casserole that feeds a crowd. It’s ready in about 30 minutes and feels like comfort food done right.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Hamburger

Vegetable and Ground Beef Skillet

One pan and a handful of ingredients turn into a balanced, no-stress dinner. Ground beef anchors the dish while vegetables cook right alongside for built-in variety. Leftovers easily become wraps, bowls, or a quick scramble the next day.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable and Ground Beef Skillet

Ground Beef Stir Fry

A flexible, fridge-friendly dinner that still feels intentional. Ground beef cooks fast, then picks up big flavor from a simple sauce and whatever veggies are on hand. It’s ready in under 30 minutes and holds up well for repeat meals.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Stir Fry

Easy Cheeseburger Pie

Cheeseburger flavors come together in a sliceable dinner that feels cozy and dependable. Ground beef, simple seasonings, and a cheesy bake create a meal that tastes way bigger than the effort involved. Cut into wedges and serve with fruit or veggies for a dinner that never gets complaints.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheeseburger Pie

Cabbage Noodles with Ground Beef

Noodle-style comfort shows up without boiling water or extra pots. Cabbage cooks down quickly and pairs perfectly with savory ground beef and bold seasoning. It tastes filling right away and reheats well for a quick lunch win.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Noodles with Ground Beef