Do you love the taste of ground beef but want to avoid the carbs that come with pasta?
If so, this article is for you.
Ground beef is a tasty and versatile ingredient that can be used in countless recipes without pasta.
From tacos and burritos to burgers and casseroles, there are plenty of delicious dishes you can make using ground beef.
In this article, I’ll share 21 easy-to-make ground beef recipes without pasta.
Each dish has its own unique flavor profile and comes together quickly – perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining friends!
21 Ground Beef Recipes Without Pasta
Ground beef is one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen.
But if you’re looking to avoid pasta, here are 21 recipes that use ground beef without relying on traditional starches:
1. Kafta Kebabs
Kafta Kebabs are a classic Middle Eastern dish made from ground beef that has been mixed with herbs, spices, and occasionally breadcrumbs.
The flavorful mixture is shaped around skewers and then grilled or broiled to perfection.
These kebabs are packed with flavor thanks to the inclusion of ingredients like onion, garlic, parsley, and a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika.
They can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, and are often enjoyed with pita bread, yogurt sauce, salad, or a side of hummus.
2. Mexican Picadillo
Mexican Picadillo is a hearty and comforting dish that combines ground beef with a rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce.
It features a unique blend of spices, such as cinnamon, cumin, and cloves, as well as ingredients like potatoes, carrots, olives, and raisins.
This sweet and savory dish can be enjoyed on its own or served over rice or inside of tacos, tostadas, or burritos.
Mexican Picadillo is versatile and can easily be adapted to include your favorite vegetables or additional spices.
3. Korean Beef
Korean Beef, also known as Bulgogi, is a popular dish made from thinly sliced or ground beef that is marinated in a sweet and savory sauce before being cooked.
The sauce traditionally consists of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and green onions.T
he marinated beef is then either stir-fried or grilled, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that is often served over rice or in lettuce wraps.
Korean Beef is packed with flavor and is surprisingly easy to make, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying weekday meal.
4. Savory Hand Pies
Savory hand pies, also known as meat pies or pasties, are a portable and delicious meal option perfect for lunch or dinner.
They consist of a flaky pastry crust filled with ground beef, vegetables, and a rich, flavorful sauce.
The filling often includes ingredients like onion, carrot, peas, and potatoes, along with spices such as thyme, rosemary, or curry powder.O
nce filled, the hand pies are baked in the oven until golden brown and can be enjoyed either hot or cold.
These hand pies can be easily customized with your favorite filling ingredients and are a fun alternative to traditional sandwiches or wraps.
5. Ground Beef Curry
Ground Beef Curry is a flavorful and warming dish made with a combination of ground beef, vegetables, and an aromatic blend of spices.
The dish starts with the sautéing of onions, garlic, and ginger, followed by the addition of ground beef and an array of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder.
Vegetables such as tomatoes, potatoes, and peas are often included, and the mixture is simmered in coconut milk or broth until the beef is tender and the flavors are well developed.
Ground Beef Curry can be enjoyed with rice, naan bread, or over a bed of steamed vegetables for a low-carb alternative.
6. Indian Keema Aloo
Indian Keema Aloo is a traditional dish that features spiced ground beef and tender potatoes cooked in a rich, aromatic sauce.
This dish is infused with Indian flavors from ingredients like ginger, garlic, green chilies, and a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala.
The addition of peas or other vegetables adds extra texture and nutrition.
Keema Aloo is best enjoyed with warm Indian bread like naan or roti or served over basmati rice, making it a satisfying and delicious meal.
7. Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe
Mongolian Ground Beef is an Asian-inspired dish that brings together the flavors of savory ground beef and sweet, sticky Mongolian sauce.
The sauce is typically made from soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and a touch of sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat.
The ground beef is cooked and then coated with the sauce and can be combined with vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or green onions for added texture and flavor.
Served over rice or quinoa, this dish is a delightful fusion of flavors and is easy to prepare for a quick weeknight meal.
8. Asian Beef Bowls
Asian Beef Bowls are a simple, customizable dish that consists of a base of rice or noodles topped with stir-fried ground beef and your choice of vegetables.
The ground beef is cooked with aromatics like garlic, ginger, and green onions and flavored with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of brown sugar.
Popular vegetable options include shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, and snow peas.
Don’t forget to add a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra punch of flavor.
Asian Beef Bowls are an ideal option for a quick, healthy, and satisfying weeknight dinner.
9. Easy Indonesian Beef Potato Croquettes
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/133137732727422679/Indonesian Beef Potato Croquettes are a delicious and unique appetizer or snack made from a mixture of mashed potatoes, ground beef, and Indonesian spices.
The ground beef is sautéed with garlic, onions, and spices such as cumin, coriander, and nutmeg before being combined with mashed potatoes.
The mixture is then shaped into small croquettes, dipped in beaten egg, and coated in breadcrumbs before being deep-fried until golden brown and crispy.
Served with a side of chili sauce, these beef potato croquettes are a tasty and portable treat.
10. African Cabbage Stew
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/580542208227512294/African Cabbage Stew is a flavorful, one-pot dish that combines ground beef, cabbage, and various vegetables in a savory tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients like onion, garlic, bell peppers, and spices such as paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper provide a rich depth of flavor.
This hearty and nutritious stew can be enjoyed on its own or served over a bed of rice or couscous.
It is also easy to make and can be easily adapted to include other vegetables or protein sources like chickpeas or lentils.
11. Beef Lumpia
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/274649277267838922/Beef Lumpia is a Filipino dish that consists of savory ground beef and vegetable filling served in crispy spring roll wrappers.
The filling often includes carrots, onions, and garlic, along with other vegetables like cabbage or bean sprouts.
The wrappers are filled and then tightly rolled before being fried until golden brown and crispy.
Served with a sweet chili or soy sauce dip, Beef Lumpia is a delicious and fun appetizer or snack that is sure to please.
12. Texas Cowboy Stew
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/281686151686088777/Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines ground beef, vegetables, and beans in a rich and savory tomato-based sauce.
This stew is often served with a side of cornbread or topped with shredded cheese and sour cream.
Ingredients like onions, garlic, and bell peppers, along with a blend of chili and cumin, give this dish a distinct Texan flavor. It is perfect for a cold, cozy night in or a fun dinner party.
13. Burgers
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/17240411066473411/Nothing beats a classic beef burger, and there are countless ways to prepare and enjoy them.
Ground beef is seasoned with salt and pepper, formed into patties, and either grilled or cooked on the stovetop.
The toppings are what make the burger truly special, and options include bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, and various sauces like ketchup, mustard, or mayo.
Served in a classic bun or wrapped in lettuce for a low-carb alternative, burgers are a versatile and satisfying meal option.
14. Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/255227503874690275/Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas are a tasty and satisfying meal or snack that features savory ground beef and cheese filling wrapped in flaky pastry dough.
The filling often includes ingredients like onion, garlic, tomato sauce, and a blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
The pastry dough is filled with the mixture, formed into a half-moon shape, and baked until golden brown and crispy.
Served with salsa or guacamole, these empanadas are a fun and portable option for a party or a quick dinner.
15. Sloppy Joes
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/592434526001720741/Sloppy Joes are a classic American dish that combines seasoned ground beef with a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce.
The mixture is typically served on a hamburger bun or a lightly toasted slice of bread. Vegetables like onions or bell peppers can be added for extra flavor and texture.
Sloppy Joes are a quick and easy weeknight meal that kids and adults alike will love.
They can be whipped up in minutes and are a perfect way to use up leftover ground beef.
16. Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/231372499598902903/Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas are a simple and delicious Mexican-inspired dish that features spiced ground beef, cheese, and vegetables cooked between two tortillas.
The filling can include ingredients like onion, bell pepper, and black beans, along with a blend of spices like chili powder and cumin.
The tortillas are filled, folded in half, and then cooked on a skillet or griddle until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
Served with a side of salsa or guacamole, these quesadillas are a perfect way to use up leftover ground beef.
17. Meatloaf
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/357614026671741972/Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that is made from seasoned ground beef mixed with bread crumbs, eggs, and milk.
It is often flavored with onion, garlic, and a blend of herbs like thyme or rosemary. The mixture is then shaped into a loaf, baked in the oven, and served sliced.
Meatloaf is a filling and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cold night in. It can be served with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or gravy.
18. Korean Ground Beef Bowls
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/466122630197174307/Korean Ground Beef Bowls are a simple and flavorful dish that features seasoned ground beef, rice, and an array of vegetables like carrots, cucumber, and kimchi.
The ground beef is cooked with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, along with a touch of brown sugar for sweetness.
The mixture is then served over a bed of rice and topped with the vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
These bowls are a healthy and satisfying meal option that can be customized to include your favorite ingredients.
19. Cantonese Ground Beef Rice and Eggs
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/703756184062999/Cantonese Ground Beef Rice and Eggs is a quick and easy breakfast or lunch option that consists of seasoned ground beef, scrambled eggs, and rice.
The ground beef is cooked with garlic, onions, and soy sauce before being combined with fluffy scrambled eggs and steamed rice.
This dish is simple yet satisfying and provides a balanced blend of protein, vegetables, and grains.
20. Ground Beef & Broccoli
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/35677022041767585/Ground Beef & Broccoli is a twist on the classic Chinese dish Beef & Broccoli that features seasoned ground beef instead of sliced beef.
The dish still features broccoli drizzled in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil.
Ground beef is cooked, then combined with broccoli and sauce, resulting in a flavorful and nutritious meal. It can be enjoyed over rice or with a side of steamed vegetables.
21. Cheeseburger Wraps aka Cheeseburger Burritos!
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/109141990959320533/Cheeseburger Wraps, also known as Cheeseburger Burritos, are a fun and easy-to-make fusion of two classic dishes.
Seasoned ground beef, cheese, and toppings like lettuce, tomato, and onion are wrapped in a flour tortilla, similar to a classic burrito.
These wraps are filling and satisfying and can be customized to include your favorite burger toppings. They are a great option for a quick and casual meal or an outdoor barbecue.
Jenny has always been passionate about cooking, and she uses her platform to share her joy of food with others. Her recipes are easy to follow, and she loves giving tips and tricks to help others create their own unique culinary creations.