5 Delicious & Simple Ground Beef Crock Pot Recipes to Try Today

Introduction

When it comes to easy, comforting, and budget-friendly meals, ground beef crock pot recipes are a game-changer. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, feeding a hungry family, or just looking for a hassle-free dinner option, a slow cooker makes cooking effortless.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can create hearty and flavorful dishes that everyone will love.

Ground beef is one of the most versatile proteins—you can use it in chili, stews, casseroles, tacos, and even sandwiches.

Plus, slow cooking enhances the flavors and tenderness of the meat, making each dish even more delicious.

In this post, we’re sharing five must-try ground beef crock pot recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal.

These recipes use everyday pantry staples and require little effort—just dump the ingredients into your Crock-Pot, set it, and let it do the work for you.

Let’s dive into these delicious and simple slow cooker recipes that will make dinnertime stress-free!

1. Classic Slow Cooker Chili

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of classic chili to satisfy your hunger, and when you make it in your slow cooker, it’s even easier.

This ground beef chili recipe is a perfect blend of rich flavors, spices, and hearty ingredients. The best part? Once you add everything to your Crock-Pot, you can set it and forget it until it’s ready to serve!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this slow cooker chili, you don’t need anything fancy—just a few pantry staples and a bit of patience for the flavors to develop. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground beef – The star of this recipe, providing protein and richness. You can use lean ground beef for a slightly healthier option.
• Kidney beans – These beans add texture and make the chili more filling.
• Diced tomatoes & tomato sauce – These are the base of your chili sauce, giving it a rich and savory flavor.
• Onion & garlic – These aromatic ingredients are essential for building the flavor profile.
• Chili powder – This spice mix adds heat and depth, creating that signature chili flavor.
• Additional seasonings – A pinch of cumin, paprika, and salt can take your chili to the next level.

How to Make It

Making this ground beef chili in the Crock-Pot couldn’t be simpler. Begin by cooking your ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s browned.

You want to get a nice sear on the meat, which will add depth to the flavor. Once browned, drain any excess fat and toss the beef into your slow cooker.

Next, add your diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and kidney beans. You don’t need to drain the beans since the liquid will help thicken the chili as it cooks.

Then, sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic, and chili powder. If you like a bit more heat, feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Stir everything together, set your slow cooker to low, and let it cook for 6-8 hours. The more time it has to cook, the better the flavors will blend and develop.

How to Serve

Once your chili is finished, it’s time to serve! This hearty dish is enhanced by a variety of toppings that elevate its flavor. Try adding a handful of shredded cheese, a spoonful of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions.

For a well-rounded meal, serve it alongside some warm, crusty bread or cornbread.

This ground beef chili recipe is not only flavorful, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily make it in larger batches for meal prep, or freeze portions for later. If you’re craving something extra, add a dash of hot sauce or jalapeños for an added kick.

This slow cooker chili will quickly become a go-to recipe for busy nights when you need a delicious, filling meal with minimal effort. Plus, it’s the kind of dish that tastes even better the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to.

2. Hearty Beef and Vegetable Stew

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of hearty beef and vegetable stew, especially when it’s made in your slow cooker.

This recipe combines tender ground beef with a variety of fresh vegetables to create a filling, flavorful meal that will warm you up from the inside out.

The best part? You can easily throw everything in the Crock-Pot and let it cook while you take care of other things, making it perfect for busy days.

What You’ll Need

To create this satisfying stew, you don’t need to worry about complicated ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need for this beef and vegetable stew:

• Ground beef – The foundation of the stew, bringing rich, savory flavor and protein.
• Potatoes – These starchy vegetables add heartiness and bulk to the dish, making it even more filling.
• Carrots and celery – Both are classic stew ingredients that add crunch, sweetness, and depth to the flavor.
• Beef broth – Provides a rich base for the stew, infusing the vegetables and beef with extra flavor.
• Garlic and onion powder – These aromatics are essential for building a well-rounded flavor profile.
• Seasonings – A mix of thyme, bay leaves, and salt brings a savory, earthy flavor to the stew.

How to Make It

Making this beef and vegetable stew is as easy as adding everything to the Crock-Pot and setting it to cook. Start by browning your ground beef in a skillet.

This step is essential for enhancing the meat’s flavor. Once browned, drain any excess fat, then transfer the beef to your slow cooker.

Next, add the potatoes, carrots, and celery to the pot. These vegetables not only make the stew hearty but also give it great texture.

Pour in the beef broth to cover the ingredients and add a rich, savory base. Then, sprinkle in the garlic, onion powder, and your choice of seasonings. Stir everything together to ensure the flavors mix well.

Now, set your slow cooker to low and let the stew cook for 6-8 hours. This slow simmer allows the vegetables to soften, and the beef to absorb all the flavors of the broth and seasonings, creating a dish that’s both tender and flavorful.

Serving Your Beef and Vegetable Stew

When it’s time to serve, you’ll be treated to a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This beef and vegetable stew is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it with some warm, crusty bread or a slice of cornbread to soak up the delicious broth.

If you like, you can also top it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. This dish is flexible—add more vegetables or even some peas for extra color and nutrients.

If you want to adjust the seasoning, feel free to add a pinch of black pepper or a dash of hot sauce for some extra zing.

This stew is not only filling but also makes excellent leftovers, with the flavors becoming even better the next day. You can easily double the recipe for meal prep, making it a perfect choice for busy weeks when you want a comforting, easy-to-make meal.

3. Cheesy Crock Pot Taco Casserole

If you love tacos, then a cheesy Crock Pot taco casserole is the ultimate dish for you. It brings all the savory goodness of tacos into a comforting casserole form that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.

This dish combines the bold flavors of seasoned ground beef, cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips, all cooked together in the slow cooker for a meal that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping a meal for the week, this casserole will quickly become a go-to in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This cheesy taco casserole requires only a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a flavorful, filling dish. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Ground beef – A key ingredient that brings richness to the casserole. Brown it before adding it to the slow cooker for added flavor.
• Taco seasoning – The secret to giving the casserole that authentic taco flavor. You can use store-bought or make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika.
• Black beans and corn – These add texture, color, and a subtle sweetness that balance out the savory beef and cheese.
• Cheese – Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese works best, creating a gooey, melty layer that holds everything together.
• Tortilla chips – These add a crunchy, taco-like texture, and they soak up the flavorful sauce, making each bite satisfying.
• Optional toppings – Sour cream, salsa, jalapeños, or guacamole are great additions to make your casserole even more flavorful.

How to Make It

Making this Crock Pot taco casserole is super simple and doesn’t require much effort. Begin by browning your ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.

As it cooks, break the beef into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking. Once it’s browned, drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to your slow cooker.

Next, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef. Mix thoroughly to make sure the seasoning is spread evenly throughout.

Then, add the black beans and corn to the slow cooker. These ingredients add flavor and texture, complementing the beef perfectly.

Now, layer the tortilla chips over the beef and beans mixture. You want to create a nice layer of chips that will absorb all the flavors as it cooks, adding a crispy element to the casserole.

Layer a generous portion of shredded cheese on top. As the casserole cooks, the cheese will melt into a smooth, velvety layer that brings all the ingredients together.

Set your slow cooker on low and let it cook for 3 to 4 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the cheese will melt into a gooey, cheesy delight.

You can also set it to high for 1-2 hours if you’re in a bit more of a hurry, but keep an eye on it to ensure the cheese doesn’t overcook.

How to Serve

When your cheesy taco casserole is finished, it’s time to dish it out! This dish is hearty on its own, but you can elevate it even further with a variety of delicious toppings.

Add a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of guacamole for creaminess. Salsa and chopped jalapeños are great for a zesty kick. If you love freshness, garnish your casserole with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions.

This casserole pairs well with a side of Mexican rice or a simple side salad for a complete meal. It’s also perfect for serving at parties or potlucks, as it’s both filling and easy to make in large batches.

You can even prepare it the night before, then simply heat it up the next day for a quick meal.

The cheesy Crock Pot taco casserole is versatile and easy to customize—add extra veggies, swap the cheese, or throw in some cooked chicken for a variation.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping ahead for the week, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite!

4. Slow Cooker Beef and Pasta Casserole

When you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare, slow cooker beef and pasta casserole is the perfect choice.

This dish brings together tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a delicious blend of cheese and tomato sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection.

It’s a complete meal that requires minimal effort, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners.

Plus, the best part is that everything cooks together in your slow cooker, letting the flavors develop while you focus on other things.

Essential Ingredients for Your Beef and Pasta Casserole

To make this satisfying beef and pasta casserole, you don’t need a long list of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:

• Ground beef – The base of your casserole, providing a savory, meaty flavor. Brown the beef first for added depth of taste.
• Pasta – Opt for pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or rigatoni, as they hold up well in the slow cooker and absorb the sauce beautifully.
• Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes – These form the flavorful base of the casserole, giving it a rich, tangy taste.
• Onion and garlic – These aromatics create a solid foundation of flavor, infusing the beef and sauce with savory goodness.
• Shredded cheese – A blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese works wonders, creating a gooey, melted top that brings everything together.
• Seasonings – A combination of oregano, basil, salt, and pepper will enhance the flavors and give the casserole that comforting, Italian-inspired taste.

How to Make It

Creating this slow cooker beef and pasta casserole couldn’t be easier. Begin by cooking the ground beef in a skillet on medium heat until browned.

While the beef cooks, use a spoon to crumble it, ensuring it browns evenly. Drain any excess fat before transferring the beef to your slow cooker.

This step is important to ensure your casserole isn’t greasy and that the beef flavor shines through.

Next, sauté the onion and garlic in the same skillet for a couple of minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This will bring out their natural sweetness, which adds depth to the overall flavor.

Once done, add them to the slow cooker with the beef.

Now, pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, and give everything a good stir. Add your seasonings, including the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

These herbs and spices will add layers of flavor that make the casserole even more delicious.

Then, add your uncooked pasta directly into the slow cooker. Yes, it’s that simple – no need to pre-cook the pasta! The slow cooker will cook the pasta as the beef and sauce bubble away, soaking up all the delicious flavors as it cooks. Stir everything to ensure the pasta is well-covered by the sauce.

Top your casserole with a generous layer of shredded cheese. The cheese will melt as the casserole cooks, forming a gooey, golden top that adds richness and flavor.

Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 3 to 4 hours. This will allow the flavors to blend, and the pasta will soften, soaking up the rich, savory sauce.

Serving Your Beef and Pasta Casserole

Once your slow cooker beef and pasta casserole is ready, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Serve it straight from the slow cooker for a hassle-free meal.

You can add a side of garlic bread or a fresh side salad to complete the meal and balance out the richness of the casserole.

For extra flavor, garnish your casserole with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parmesan cheese. These small touches make the dish feel even more special, elevating the flavors and presentation.

This casserole also makes great leftovers. In fact, the flavors often deepen the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or packed lunches.

Simply store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Tips for Customizing Your Beef and Pasta Casserole

One of the best things about slow cooker beef and pasta casserole is how versatile it is. You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Add vegetables – Toss in some spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Use different pasta – While rotini works great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, elbow macaroni, or even rigatoni.
• Try ground turkey or chicken – If you’re looking for a leaner option, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Both will provide a lighter taste while still being delicious.
• Spice it up – For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce before cooking.

With its rich flavor, cheesy goodness, and the ability to customize to your taste, this slow cooker beef and pasta casserole is sure to be a hit every time you make it.

Whether it’s for a quick family dinner or a make-ahead meal for the week, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

5. Dump-and-Go Sloppy Joes

If you’re looking for a quick, no-fuss dinner that still delivers on taste, Dump-and-Go Sloppy Joes are your answer. This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want to prepare a meal with minimal effort, yet still enjoy a delicious and satisfying dish.

With the slow cooker doing most of the work, all you have to do is “dump” the ingredients in, set it, and forget it until dinner time.

The result is a savory, tangy, and slightly sweet mix of ground beef, tomato sauce, and seasonings that is ideal for serving on a soft bun or even over rice for a simple but satisfying meal.

Essential Ingredients for Your Dump-and-Go Sloppy Joes

One of the best things about this recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are. You don’t need a long list of complex items to create a flavorful sloppy joe that everyone will love. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground beef – The main protein for your sloppy joes. You can use any ground meat you prefer, but ground beef is most commonly used for its rich flavor and texture.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce, infusing the dish with savory flavor.
• Ketchup – A key ingredient for the tangy base of the sauce, giving your sloppy joes that classic, sweet-and-sour taste.
• BBQ sauce – For a smoky twist, BBQ sauce adds a unique flavor to the dish that complements the beef beautifully.
• Worcestershire sauce – This ingredient adds a deep, savory umami flavor that enhances the overall taste of the sloppy joe mixture.
• Brown sugar – A touch of sweetness that balances the tanginess of the ketchup and the richness of the beef.
• Mustard – A little mustard brings a slight tang and zest to the sauce, helping to cut through the richness of the beef.
• Seasonings – A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt rounds out the flavors and ensures your sloppy joes have the perfect seasoning.

How to Make It

Making Dump-and-Go Sloppy Joes is as easy as the name suggests. Begin by cooking the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s browned.

As it cooks, break the beef apart with a spoon, ensuring it cooks evenly. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the mixture from becoming greasy.

Next, transfer the browned beef into your slow cooker. You don’t need to do anything fancy—just dump it in. Add the chopped onion to the slow cooker with the beef.

The slow cooker will work its magic, softening the onion and infusing it into the meat and sauce as it cooks.

Now, pour in the ketchup, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. These ingredients combine to create the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.

Add the brown sugar to round out the sauce with a touch of sweetness. Then, sprinkle in your seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt—and stir everything to combine.

Once everything is in the slow cooker, mix well to ensure the beef is coated in the sauce. Then, simply cover and cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld together, creating a deliciously rich and tangy filling for your sloppy joe buns.

Serving Your Dump-and-Go Sloppy Joes

Once your Dump-and-Go Sloppy Joes are ready, it’s time to serve up this simple yet satisfying meal. The sloppy joe mixture is perfect for spooning onto soft hamburger buns, creating a classic, messy, and irresistible sandwich.

You can even add a slice of cheese on top, allowing it to melt into the hot filling for an extra creamy touch.

For a little extra flavor, consider topping your sloppy joes with fresh pickles, a handful of shredded lettuce, or even a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce.

If you’re looking to make it a full meal, serve your sloppy joes with a side of crispy fries, coleslaw, or even a simple salad to add some freshness and crunch to balance out the rich, savory filling.

Tips for Customizing Your Dump-and-Go Sloppy Joes

The beauty of Dump-and-Go Sloppy Joes is in their versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your preferences or to add more flavor. Here are a few ideas for customization:

• Add heat – If you like a bit of spice, throw in some jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give your sloppy joes a kick.
• Use different meats – You can switch out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Alternatively, ground pork or sausage can add a different flavor profile that’s equally delicious.
• Make it a vegetarian option – For a meat-free version, replace the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or even tofu. These options soak up the sauce well and provide a hearty texture.
• Experiment with sauces – Swap the BBQ sauce with sriracha, hot sauce, or teriyaki sauce for a unique twist on the classic flavor.

This Dump-and-Go Sloppy Joe recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or even serving at a casual gathering.

The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, leaving you with a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s sure to be enjoyed by everyone at the table.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a meal that feels indulgent and comforting, yet requires minimal effort.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ground Beef Crock Pot Recipes

1. What are some easy ground beef crock pot recipes?
Some popular and easy ground beef crock pot recipes include Sloppy Joes, Chili, Beef Stew, Taco Casserole, and Beef and Pasta Casserole. These dishes require minimal prep and cook while you go about your day.

2. How long does it take to cook ground beef in a crock pot?
Ground beef typically takes 3-4 hours on low heat in a crock pot. Make sure to brown the beef first before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure even cooking and great flavor.

3. Can I freeze ground beef crock pot recipes?
Yes, most ground beef crock pot recipes freeze well. After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. you can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

4. Can I use frozen ground beef in a crock pot?
It’s best to thaw ground beef before cooking it in a crock pot to ensure even cooking. However, if you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen beef, but be sure to cook it on high heat for a longer period.

5. Are ground beef crock pot recipes healthy?
Many ground beef crock pot recipes can be made healthier by using lean ground beef, adding plenty of vegetables, and reducing sugar or salt in the sauce. It’s easy to adapt these recipes to suit your dietary needs.

6. What are the best seasonings for ground beef crock pot recipes?
The best seasonings for ground beef crock pot recipes depend on the dish, but common choices include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. You can also add Worcestershire sauce or tomato paste for extra depth of flavor.

8. Can I make ground beef crock pot recipes with lean beef?
Yes, lean ground beef works well in ground beef crock pot recipes. It reduces excess grease while still providing rich flavor. You can also add broth or sauce to keep it moist.

Conclusion

Incorporating ground beef crock pot recipes into your weekly meal planning can save you time while still providing delicious, hearty meals that everyone will enjoy.

Whether you’re making a classic dish like chili, experimenting with a cheesy taco casserole, or trying a comforting beef and vegetable stew, your slow cooker will become your best friend in the kitchen.

The beauty of these recipes lies not just in their ease but in the ability to adapt and customize each one to your personal tastes and dietary preferences.

The convenience of a crock pot allows you to prepare meals in advance, letting you go about your day while the slow cooker works its magic.

You can even experiment with different ingredients, seasonings, and flavor combinations to keep things exciting. The best part is that these meals often taste even better the next day, making them perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

So, the next time you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dinner, don’t hesitate to reach for your slow cooker and try one of these ground beef crock pot recipes.

With minimal effort, you’ll have a satisfying meal that the whole family will love, leaving you with more time to enjoy the things you truly care about. Happy cooking!