Ground Beef Crock Pot Recipes: Easy & Hearty Meals (2024)

Nothing beats the convenience of a slow cooker when it comes to cooking flavorful and hearty meals with minimal effort. Whether you’re whipping up a comforting stew, a rich lasagna, or a spicy taco casserole, these ground beef crock pot recipes will transform your dinner routine.

Using a crock pot allows for slow, even cooking that enhances the taste of ground beef while keeping it moist and tender. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, and even budget-friendly cooking!

In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of ground beef crock pot recipes, including:

• Classic dishes like chili and meatloaf
• International flavors with Italian meatballs and Mexican-style casseroles
• Comfort food favorites, from shepherd’s pie to hamburger stew
• Healthy options that fit into low-carb or balanced diets
• Quick, dump-and-go meals for stress-free cooking
• Budget-friendly meals that make the most of pantry staples
• Unique and creative ground beef slow cooker ideas

Let’s dive in!

Introduction to Ground Beef Crock Pot Cooking

Why Use a Crock Pot for Ground Beef Recipes?

Slow cooking is a game-changer, especially when it comes to ground beef recipes. A crock pot allows flavors to blend beautifully, creating richer, deeper-tasting meals without constant attention.

Here’s why you’ll love using your slow cooker for ground beef:

• Set it and forget it – No need to hover over the stove.
• Enhances flavor – Spices and seasonings infuse better over time.
• Great for batch cooking – Prepare meals ahead and freeze for later.
• Budget-friendly – Turns inexpensive ingredients into delicious, filling dishes.

Some of the best ground beef crock pot recipes don’t even require pre-browning! Just dump, set, and let your slow cooker do the magic.

Essential Tips for Cooking Ground Beef in a Slow Cooker

When using a slow cooker for ground beef crock pot recipes, proper layering and liquid balance are key to achieving the best flavor. Placing denser ingredients like potatoes and carrots at the bottom helps ensure even cooking, while lean ground beef prevents excess grease buildup. If you’re new to slow cooking or want expert advice on maximizing flavor and texture, check out these slow cooker tips from The food network, a trusted resource for home cooking.

To make the most of your ground beef crock pot recipes, follow these simple tips:

1. Choose the Right Ground Beef

Opt for lean ground beef (85% lean or higher) to avoid excess grease in your dish. If using fattier meat, drain it after browning for a cleaner, richer flavor.

2. To Brown or Not to Brown?

While some slow cooker recipes let you add raw beef straight in, browning first adds extra depth of flavor. It also helps reduce excess grease, especially for dishes like meatloaf or casseroles.

3. Use the Right Liquid Ratio

Unlike stovetop cooking, crock pots retain moisture, so you don’t need as much liquid. If a recipe calls for broth, tomato sauce, or milk, start with less and adjust as needed.

4. Slow Cook on Low for the Best Texture

For the most tender results, cook ground beef recipes on low heat. This allows the meat to absorb flavors while staying juicy. If you’re short on time, high heat works but may lead to drier results.

5. Layer Ingredients Properly

Denser ingredients like potatoes and carrots should go at the bottom, closer to the heat source. Ground beef is best layered on top of vegetables or mixed in with sauces for even cooking.

By keeping these simple tips in mind, you’ll create ground beef crock pot recipes that are bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection!

Next up: We dive into classic crock pot recipes like chili and meatloaf! 🍲

Classic Ground Beef Crock Pot Recipes

Slow Cooker Chili

Chili is a timeless favorite among ground beef crock pot recipes. Its hearty blend of flavors makes it a go-to comfort food.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot: Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve: Once done, give it a good stir and serve hot.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor:

• Add Depth: Incorporate a tablespoon of cocoa powder or a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Hearty Crock Pot Meatloaf

Meatloaf is a classic dish that adapts beautifully to slow cooking, resulting in a moist and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the Loaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the slow cooker.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
4. Glaze (Optional): In the last 30 minutes, spread additional ketchup or barbecue sauce over the top for a flavorful glaze.
5. Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Side Dishes: Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Leftovers: Use slices in sandwiches for a quick and tasty lunch.

For more hearty and comforting dishes, you might enjoy our Cowboy Casserole Recipe: Delicious, Cheesy, 5-Star Comfort Food.

International-Inspired Ground Beef Crock Pot Dishes

Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs

Italian meatballs are a versatile addition to any meal, and preparing them in a crock pot ensures they are tender and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups marinara sauce

Preparation Steps:

1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
3. Place in Crock Pot: Arrange the meatballs in the slow cooker and pour marinara sauce over them.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
5. Serve: Gently stir before serving to coat the meatballs in sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pasta: Serve over spaghetti or your favorite pasta.
• Subs: Place meatballs and sauce in a hoagie roll, top with mozzarella, and broil until cheese melts.

Storage Tip:

• Freezing: Cooked meatballs can be frozen in sauce for up to 3 months. Reheat in the crock pot or on the stovetop.

Mexican-Style Taco Casserole

This flavorful casserole brings the zest of tacos into a convenient, layered dish that’s perfect for busy evenings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can (15 oz) black

Comfort Food Favorites with Ground Beef Crock Pot Recipes

Crock Pot Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort dish that adapts beautifully to slow cooking, making it a standout among ground beef crock pot recipes.

Ingredients:

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

Preparation Steps:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
2. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the beef mixture to the crock pot. Stir in mixed vegetables, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Layer the Topping: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the beef and vegetable mixture.
4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the filling is bubbly and the topping is set.

Tips for a Creamy Mashed Potato Topping:

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes yield a creamy texture.
• Proper Mashing: Mash potatoes while warm, adding butter and warm milk gradually to achieve desired creaminess.
• Season Well: Incorporate salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for depth of flavor.

Variations:

• Cheesy Crust: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes before slow cooking for a rich, cheesy layer.
• Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the mashed potatoes for added freshness.

Slow Cooker Hamburger Stew

Hamburger stew is a hearty addition to your collection of ground beef crock pot recipes, offering a warm and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Assemble in Crock Pot: Add the browned beef, beef broth, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, diced tomatoes, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until vegetables are tender.

Serving Suggestions:

• Crusty Bread: Serve the stew with slices of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and added flavor.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Rotel Dip Recipe: Irresistible, Cheesy & Addictive.

Healthy Ground Beef Crock Pot Options

Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are a nutritious and flavorful option among ground beef crock pot recipes, combining protein and vegetables in a single dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers, tops removed and seeds cleaned
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat, then add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in cooked quinoa or brown rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the beef mixture and place them upright in the crock pot.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until peppers are tender.
4. Add Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of each pepper, allowing it to melt.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Lean Protein: Using lean ground beef reduces fat content while providing essential nutrients.
• Whole Grains: Quinoa or brown rice adds fiber and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
• Vegetable Intake: Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, contributing to a balanced diet.

Time-Saving Ground Beef Crock Pot Recipes

Dump-and-Go Slow Cooker Lasagna

When it comes to easy ground beef crock pot recipes, this no-boil slow cooker lasagna is a game-changer. It delivers all the cheesy, saucy goodness of a classic lasagna—without the hassle of boiling noodles or layering meticulously.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 box no-boil lasagna noodles
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Prepare the Sauce: Mix the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.
3. Layer the Lasagna: Start with a layer of sauce, followed by lasagna noodles (breaking them if needed to fit), a layer of ricotta cheese, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous cheese topping.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, until noodles are tender.
5. Serve: Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread.

Easy Crock Pot Sloppy Joes

For a quick, family-friendly meal, slow cooker Sloppy Joes are one of the easiest ground beef crock pot recipes you can make.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 hamburger buns

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: Cook ground beef, onion, and bell pepper in a skillet until the meat is fully browned. Drain excess grease.
2. Add to Crock Pot: Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Slow Cook: Cook on low for 4-5 hours. Stir occasionally to blend the flavors.
4. Serve: Spoon the mixture onto hamburger buns and enjoy.

Budget-Friendly Ground Beef Crock Pot Recipes

Slow Cooker Beef and Rice Casserole

This hearty casserole is a budget-friendly take on ground beef crock pot recipes, using pantry staples to create a filling, flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, mix ground beef, uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, beef broth, onion, bell pepper, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until rice is tender.
4. Serve: Fluff with a fork and serve hot. Pair with a simple side salad for a balanced meal.

Budget Tips:

• Stretch the Meat: Add canned beans or extra rice to make it last longer.
• Use Leftovers Creatively: Stuff leftovers into bell peppers or tortillas for a new meal.

Crock Pot Ground Beef and Beans

Beans and beef are a classic combination in budget-friendly ground beef crock pot recipes. This dish is high in protein and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef until fully browned. Drain any excess grease.
2. Combine Ingredients: Transfer beef to the slow cooker. Add kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, allowing the flavors to blend.
4. Serve: Enjoy as a stew, over rice, or with cornbread.

Ways to Save Even More:

• Use Dried Beans: Soak and cook dried beans instead of canned to cut costs.
• Repurpose Leftovers: Turn leftovers into taco filling or burritos the next day.

These ground beef crock pot recipes prove that delicious, hearty meals don’t have to be expensive or complicated. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping on a budget, these slow cooker dishes will save you time and money.

Unique Ground Beef Crock Pot Recipes

Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup

If you love the taste of a juicy cheeseburger, this slow cooker cheeseburger soup is a fun and comforting twist. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for chilly days. Among ground beef crock pot recipes, this one is a guaranteed family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 3 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned, then drain excess fat.
2. Add to Crock Pot: Transfer the beef to the slow cooker. Add diced potatoes, onion, carrots, broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until potatoes are tender.
4. Make it Creamy: Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. If the soup is too thin, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it in to thicken.
5. Serve: Enjoy hot with toasted bread or crackers.

Crock Pot BBQ Beef Sliders

For a delicious slow-cooked sandwich option, these BBQ beef sliders are a must-try. They’re tender, smoky, and perfect for parties or family dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 8 slider buns

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef: Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet, then drain excess grease.
2. Slow Cook: Transfer to the slow cooker. Stir in BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Cook on low for 3-4 hours.
3. Serve: Spoon onto slider buns and enjoy!

These creative ground beef crock pot recipes bring exciting flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort.

FAQs About Ground Beef Crock Pot Recipes

Can I cook raw ground beef in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook raw ground beef in a slow cooker, but it’s usually best to brown it first. Browning helps develop flavor and removes excess grease, preventing the dish from becoming too oily. However, some dump-and-go ground beef crock pot recipes allow you to add raw beef directly, especially when cooking for long hours.

How long does it take to cook ground beef in a crock pot?

The cooking time depends on the recipe, but ground beef typically takes 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in most slow cooker dishes. If it’s part of a stew or casserole, it may need longer to allow flavors to blend.

Can I put frozen ground beef in a slow cooker?

It’s not recommended. The slow cooker heats food gradually, keeping frozen meat at an unsafe temperature for too long. Instead, thaw ground beef in the fridge before using it in ground beef crock pot recipes.

How do I prevent ground beef from drying out in the slow cooker?

To keep ground beef moist, use broth, tomato sauce, or other liquids. Also, avoid overcooking by using the low setting when possible. If a recipe calls for extended cooking times, consider adding ground beef later in the process.

This FAQ section ensures your ground beef crock pot recipes turn out perfect every time. Whether you’re making a stew, soup, or sliders, these tips will help you get the best results.