ground beef crock pot recipes

Time to read:19 minutes

Why Use a Crock Pot for Ground Beef Recipes?

Ground beef recipes are versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for busy schedules. Using a crock pot enhances the flavor while making cooking more convenient. Slow cooking allows the meat to absorb seasonings, ensuring a tender and juicy texture. Whether making chili, tacos, or casseroles, a crock pot simplifies meal prep and delivers consistent results.

Benefits of Slow Cooking Ground Beef

Enhanced Flavor and Tenderness

• Slow cooking allows the beef to soak up spices and sauces.
• The low temperature prevents the meat from drying out.
• Fat content distributes evenly, adding moisture and richness.

Time-Saving Meal Prep

• Minimal hands-on cooking time.
• Perfect for preparing meals in advance.
• Great for batch cooking and freezing leftovers.

Energy-Efficient Cooking

• Uses less electricity compared to an oven.
• Prevents overheating the kitchen.
• Ideal for hot weather when you don’t want to use a stove.

Best Ground Beef Cuts for Crock Pot Recipes

Lean vs. Fatty Ground Beef

• Lean ground beef (90/10 or higher): Best for health-conscious dishes. Less grease but can dry out if not cooked properly.
• Regular ground beef (80/20): Adds extra flavor and moisture but requires draining excess fat.
• Ground chuck: Excellent balance of flavor and texture.

Choosing the Right Meat for Different Dishes

Essential Tips for Cooking Ground Beef in a Crock Pot

Pre-Browning: Yes or No?

• Yes: Adds depth to the flavor by caramelizing the meat.
• No: Saves time, but may result in a different texture.

Avoiding Excess Grease

• Use leaner beef or drain fat after browning.
• Place a paper towel over the meat to absorb grease while cooking.

Best Seasoning Techniques

• Layer flavors by adding spices early.
• Use broth or tomato sauce for moisture.
• Stir occasionally for even seasoning.

Must-Have Ingredients for Flavorful Ground Beef Dishes

Herbs and Spices That Enhance Taste

• Garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and paprika.
• Italian seasoning for pasta dishes.
• Chili powder for Mexican-inspired meals.

Best Sauces and Broths to Use

• Beef or chicken broth for moisture.
• Tomato-based sauces for richness.
• Worcestershire sauce for umami depth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking or Under-Seasoning

• Long cook times can dry out lean beef.
• Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Using Too Much Liquid

• Beef releases moisture, so extra liquid isn’t always necessary.
• Add thickening agents like tomato paste when needed.

Not Layering Ingredients Correctly

• Place denser vegetables like potatoes or carrots at the bottom.
• Keep ground beef on top to ensure even cooking.

For more delicious meal ideas, check out our guide on perfect meatloaf every time. Also, explore additional slow cooker tips from Food Network to improve your recipes.

Classic Ground Beef Crock Pot Recipes

Hearty Slow Cooker Chili

Ground Beef Recipes are perfect for slow cooking, and chili is one of the best. This hearty dish is easy to make and full of flavor. The slow cooker allows the ingredients to blend perfectly.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 1 can kidney beans, drained
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add beef to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, onion, and garlic.
4. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
6. Stir well before serving.

Best Toppings and Serving Ideas:

• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream
• Diced avocado
• Chopped green onions
• Serve with cornbread or over rice

Easy Crock Pot Sloppy Joes

This Ground Beef Recipe is sweet, tangy, and full of flavor. Slow cooking enhances the rich sauce, making it perfect for sandwiches.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown ground beef in a skillet, then drain fat.
2. Transfer to the slow cooker.
3. Add all remaining ingredients.
4. Stir well and cover.
5. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve on toasted buns.

How to Make It Healthier:

• Use lean ground beef.
• Replace brown sugar with honey.
• Add shredded carrots or zucchini.
• Use whole wheat buns.

Slow Cooker Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Ground Beef Recipes like meatballs work great in a slow cooker. The sauce infuses deep flavor into the meatballs, making them perfect for pasta or subs.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups marinara sauce

Instructions:

1. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, egg, and spices.
2. Form into meatballs and place in slow cooker.
3. Pour marinara sauce over meatballs.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.

Freezing and Meal Prep Tips:

• Freeze raw meatballs on a baking sheet before storing in a bag.
• Store cooked meatballs in sauce for easy reheating.
• Use frozen meatballs directly in the slow cooker.

Ground Beef and Vegetable Stew

This Ground Beef Recipe is nutritious and comforting. A slow cooker makes the beef tender and the vegetables soft and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown ground beef, then drain fat.
2. Place beef and all other ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Stir well and cover.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Best Vegetables to Include:

• Bell peppers
• Green beans
• Corn
• Mushrooms
• Peas

Cheesy Taco Casserole

Ground Beef Recipes with Tex-Mex flavors are always a hit. This cheesy taco casserole is a delicious way to enjoy a flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup black beans
• 1 cup corn
• 2 cups shredded cheese
• 6 small flour tortillas, chopped

Instructions:

1. Brown ground beef, then drain fat.
2. Stir in taco seasoning, tomatoes, beans, and corn.
3. Layer chopped tortillas in a slow cooker.
4. Add beef mixture and top with cheese.
5. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
6. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Best Cheese and Tortilla Combinations:

This recipe is a great way to make a satisfying meal with Ground Beef Recipes in a slow cooker.

Creative and Unique Ground Beef Dishes

Ground beef recipes offer endless possibilities for delicious meals. Incorporating ground beef into various dishes can provide both comfort and excitement to your dining experience. Let’s explore some creative and unique ground beef recipes that you can easily prepare at home.

Stuffed Bell Peppers in the Crock Pot

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the freshness of bell peppers. Preparing them in a crock pot simplifies the cooking process and enhances the flavors.

Benefits of Using a Crock Pot:

• Convenience: Allows for hands-off cooking, freeing up time for other tasks.​
• Flavor Development: Slow cooking melds the flavors together, resulting in a more cohesive dish.​
• Tender Texture: Ensures the bell peppers and filling are cooked to perfection.​Life in the Lofthouse

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)​
• 1 pound ground beef​Allrecipes
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)​
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)​
• 1 small onion, finely chopped​
• 2 cloves garlic, minced​
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning​Savory Nothings
• Salt and pepper to taste​
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese​

Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare the Bell Peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.​
2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.​
3. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the ground beef mixture.​
4. Arrange in Crock Pot: Place the stuffed peppers upright in the crock pot.​
5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through.​
6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of each pepper during the last 15 minutes of cooking.​

Serving Suggestions:

• Meal Prep: These stuffed peppers are ideal for meal prepping. Prepare a batch and refrigerate for up to four days. They reheat well in the microwave or oven.​
• Grain Variations: While rice is traditional, you can substitute quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.​

For more inspiration on stuffed bell peppers, you can explore this.

Slow Cooker Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is a comforting dish that traditionally features ground lamb, but using ground beef is a popular variation. Preparing it in a slow cooker makes the process easier and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef​Allrecipes+1Allrecipes+1
• 1 onion, chopped​
• 2 cloves garlic, minced​
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)​
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste​
• 1 cup beef broth​
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce​
• Salt and pepper to taste​
• 4 cups mashed potatoes​

Preparation Steps:

1. Cook the Beef: In a skillet, sauté ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.​
2. Add Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until softened.​
3. Incorporate Vegetables: Stir in mixed vegetables, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.​
4. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Pour the mixture into the slow cooker.​
5. Top with Potatoes: Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the beef mixture.​
6. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.​

Tips for a Perfect Mashed Potato Topping:

• Creaminess: Use warm milk and butter to achieve a smooth texture.​
• Flavor: Add roasted garlic or shredded cheese to enhance the taste.​
• Consistency: Ensure the mashed potatoes are not too loose to prevent them from sinking into the filling.​

Beef and Cabbage Soup

This hearty soup combines ground beef with cabbage, offering a nutritious and budget-friendly meal option.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef​
• 1 onion, chopped​
• 2 cloves garlic, minced​
• 4 cups chopped cabbage​
• 2 carrots, sliced​
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)​
• 4 cups beef broth​
• 1 teaspoon paprika​
• Salt and pepper to taste​

Preparation Steps:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.​
2. Add Vegetables: Stir in chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped cabbage, and sliced carrots. Cook until vegetables begin to soften.​
3. Add Liquids and Seasoning:

Adding Beans or Grains for Extra Fiber

Enhancing beef and cabbage soup with beans or grains can improve its nutritional value and make it more filling. Some great additions include:

• Kidney Beans or Black Beans: Boost protein and fiber.
• Lentils: Add texture and richness.
• Brown Rice or Barley: Create a hearty meal.
• Quinoa: A gluten-free, protein-packed alternative.

These ingredients not only make the soup more satisfying but also balance the flavors of ground beef and cabbage.

Crock Pot Lasagna with Ground Beef

Lasagna is a family favorite, and using a crock pot makes it easier to prepare without constant supervision.

Layering Techniques for the Perfect Texture

To achieve the best texture in slow cooker lasagna, follow these steps:

1. Start with Sauce: Prevents sticking and keeps noodles soft.
2. Add Uncooked Noodles: No need to pre-boil; they absorb sauce.
3. Layer Ground Beef Mixture: Ensure even distribution.
4. Add Cheese: Use ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for creaminess.
5. Repeat Layers: Until the crock pot is full.
6. Top with Extra Cheese: For a golden, bubbly finish.

Best Pasta Alternatives for a Low-Carb Version

If you prefer a low-carb lasagna, try these options:

• Zucchini Slices: Thinly sliced and grilled to remove moisture.
• Eggplant Slices: Adds a slightly smoky flavor.
• Cabbage Leaves: A sturdy, low-carb alternative.
• Cauliflower Sheets: Pre-made and widely available.

BBQ Beef Sliders

These sweet and smoky BBQ beef sliders are perfect for parties or quick dinners. Cooking the ground beef in a slow cooker enhances its juiciness.

Sweet and Smoky Flavors in a Slow Cooker

To get the best BBQ taste, use a mix of:

• Smoked Paprika: Adds a deep smoky aroma.
• Brown Sugar or Honey: Balances the acidity.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Enhances tanginess.
• Liquid Smoke: Gives a true BBQ flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Deepens the umami taste.

Best Buns and Toppings for Serving

Serve your BBQ beef sliders with:

• Brioche Buns: Soft and slightly sweet.
• Hawaiian Rolls: Adds a hint of sweetness.
• Coleslaw: Crunchy contrast to tender beef.
• Pickles: Enhances the BBQ flavor.
• Cheese: Cheddar or smoked gouda for extra richness.

For a unique twist on ground beef, check out this recipe for jazzed-up sugar cookies and pair it with your sliders for a complete meal.

Comparison of Ground Beef Dish Prep Times

Healthy and Low-Carb Ground Beef Crock Pot Meals

Incorporating ground beef recipes into your meal plan can be both healthy and low-carb. Using a crock pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy flavorful dishes without the hassle. Below are some delectable recipes that fit perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle.

Keto-Friendly Beef and Cauliflower Casserole

This hearty casserole replaces traditional high-carb ingredients with cauliflower, ensuring you enjoy a comforting meal without the extra carbs.

Ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Cauliflower florets
• Cream cheese
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower: Steam or boil cauliflower florets until tender, then mash until smooth.
3. Combine Ingredients: In the crock pot, mix the browned beef, mashed cauliflower, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours until the mixture is bubbly and cheese is melted.

Tip: For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream.

Low-Carb Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Zucchini boats offer a fresh and nutritious alternative to traditional carb-heavy meals.

Ingredients:

• Zucchinis
• Ground beef
• Diced tomatoes
• Italian seasoning
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare Zucchinis: Slice zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the centers to create boats.
2. Cook the Filling: In a skillet, brown the ground beef, then add diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes.
3. Assemble: Fill each zucchini boat with the beef mixture and top with shredded mozzarella.
4. Cook: Place the boats in the crock pot, cover, and cook on low for 4 hours until zucchinis are tender and cheese is melted.

Tip: Experiment with spices like paprika or cumin to enhance the flavor profile.

Protein-Packed Beef and Spinach Soup

This nutrient-dense soup combines the richness of beef with the health benefits of spinach.

Ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Fresh spinach
• Beef broth
• Diced onions
• Minced garlic
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef with diced onions and minced garlic until beef is browned and onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat.
2. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the beef mixture to the crock pot. Add beef broth, fresh spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours until flavors meld together.

Tip: For added protein, stir in cooked lentils or quinoa during the last hour of cooking.

Paleo Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash

This dish offers a balanced meal with the sweetness of sweet potatoes complementing the savory beef.

Ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Diced sweet potatoes
• Diced bell peppers
• Diced onions
• Minced garlic
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef with diced onions and minced garlic until beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the crock pot, add diced sweet potatoes, bell peppers, the beef mixture, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7 hours until sweet potatoes are tender.

Tip: For a smoky, rich taste, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.

Mediterranean Beef and Eggplant Stew

This stew is rich in flavors from olive oil, tomatoes, and herbs, offering a delightful Mediterranean experience.

Ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Diced eggplant
• Diced tomatoes
• Chopped onions
• Minced garlic
• Olive oil
• Oregano
• Basil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef with chopped onions and minced garlic until beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Prepare Eggplant: Toss diced eggplant in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine Ingredients: In the crock pot, add the beef mixture, eggplant, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours until eggplant is tender and flavors are well combined.

Tip: Serve this stew over a bed of cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Comparison Table

To help you choose the recipe that best fits your dietary needs, here’s a comparison of the approximate nutritional values per serving for each dish:

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Incorporating these ground beef recipes into your meal plan can provide variety and satisfaction while adhering to a low-carb lifestyle. The crock pot method ensures convenience, allowing you to enjoy hearty meals with minimal effort.

Slow Cooker Hearty Chili – A Delicious Ground Beef Recipe

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This Slow Cooker Chili is one of the best Ground Beef Recipes for a comforting and flavorful meal. Packed with protein-rich beans, tomatoes, and bold spices, this dish is perfect for meal prep and family dinners.

• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 can tomato sauce (8 oz)
• 1 can kidney beans, drained
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer ground beef to the slow cooker.
3. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, onion, and garlic.
4. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
6. Stir well before serving.

Notes

 

• Top with cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or green onions for extra flavor.
• Serve with cornbread, rice, or a fresh side salad.

• Author: Elian Cove
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups (approximately 350g per serving)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Ground Beef Recipes, Slow Cooker Chili, Easy Crock Pot Meals

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