25+ Cozy Winter Ground Beef Recipes to Keep You Warm

When the temperatures drop, there’s nothing like hearty, comforting meals to keep you warm and satisfied.

Ground beef is a versatile and budget-friendly ingredient that shines in countless winter recipes.

From savory casseroles to soul-warming soups, this humble staple can transform into dishes that please the whole family.

In this collection of 25+ winter ground beef recipes, you’ll find something for every occasion—whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, hosting a cozy gathering, or indulging in some well-deserved comfort food.

Each recipe is designed to deliver bold flavors and satisfying textures that will brighten up even the chilliest days.

So, grab your skillet, crockpot, or casserole dish, and let’s explore these incredible winter ground beef recipes that are as easy to make as they are delicious!

25+ Cozy Winter Ground Beef Recipes to Keep You Warm

Winter is the perfect season to embrace the warmth and heartiness of ground beef recipes.

With this list of 25+ winter ground beef recipes, you now have a treasure trove of ideas to inspire your cooking all season long.

Whether you’re craving a creamy stroganoff, a savory chili, or a comforting shepherd’s pie, these dishes are guaranteed to hit the spot.

Not only are these recipes easy and versatile, but they’re also a fantastic way to create nourishing meals that bring comfort to your table.

So, stock up on ground beef, and let these recipes fill your home with cozy aromas and your heart with joy. Winter never tasted so good!

Hearty Winter Beef and Vegetable Stew

This Hearty Winter Beef and Vegetable Stew is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Packed with tender ground beef, hearty root vegetables, and warming spices, this stew is both nourishing and satisfying. It’s a one-pot wonder that will keep you warm from the inside out while filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed
• 1 cup diced butternut squash
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, butternut squash, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir in thyme, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This stew is the definition of winter comfort food, combining the richness of ground beef with the earthy flavors of seasonal vegetables. Serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a meal that’s sure to bring smiles and warm hearts around the table.

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie

This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie is a winter twist on the classic dish. Swapping traditional mashed potatoes with creamy mashed sweet potatoes adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory beef filling. It’s a wholesome dish that makes for the ultimate cold-weather comfort meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground beef until browned. Add onions and garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Simmer for 5 minutes, then mix in frozen peas and carrots. Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish.
4. Boil sweet potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread the mashed sweet potatoes over the beef mixture in the baking dish, smoothing the top with a spoon.
6. Bake for 20 minutes or until the top is slightly golden. Serve warm.

This modern take on shepherd’s pie balances savory and sweet flavors beautifully. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s easy to make and perfect for cozy winter evenings. Leftovers reheat wonderfully, making it an excellent meal prep option too!

Spiced Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

For a quick and hearty winter dinner, this Spiced Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a must-try. Combining tender ground beef with nutrient-rich cabbage and warming spices, this dish is budget-friendly, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a true one-pan wonder for busy winter nights.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the shredded cabbage, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the cabbage with spices.
4. Pour in beef broth and cook until the cabbage is tender, about 7-10 minutes.
5. Return the cooked beef to the skillet, mix well, and drizzle with lemon juice. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

This Spiced Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a fantastic way to enjoy winter vegetables with a touch of warmth from the spices. It’s simple, delicious, and pairs perfectly with rice, quinoa, or even on its own for a lighter meal. A quick, hearty favorite that’s sure to become a staple!

Ground Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff

This Ground Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff is a rich and creamy dish perfect for cozy winter evenings. Tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious sour cream sauce come together to create a meal that’s hearty, comforting, and bursting with flavor. Serve it over egg noodles for the ultimate cold-weather treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 oz (340g) egg noodles, cooked
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Add Worcestershire sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it thicken for about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in sour cream, return the ground beef to the skillet, and mix well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles and garnish with fresh parsley.

This Ground Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s an easy-to-make dish that feels indulgent but uses simple ingredients. Perfect for a satisfying winter dinner that the whole family will love!

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

When winter calls for comfort food, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole delivers. Layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese bake to perfection in this hearty dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Drain excess fat.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and milk.
4. In a greased baking dish, layer half the sliced potatoes, then half the ground beef mixture, and half the soup mixture. Repeat layers.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and cover with foil. Bake for 40 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with parsley before serving.

This casserole is pure winter comfort in every bite. The creamy potatoes, savory beef, and gooey cheese come together for a dish that’s hearty and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Spiced Ground Beef Chili

Nothing beats a steaming bowl of chili on a cold winter day, and this Spiced Ground Beef Chili is just the ticket. Loaded with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and warming spices, this chili is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Top it with your favorite garnishes for a customized winter meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, tortilla chips

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release the spices’ aroma.
4. Add the browned beef, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir well.
5. Bring the chili to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

This Spiced Ground Beef Chili is a true winter classic. It’s warming, hearty, and endlessly customizable with a variety of toppings. Whether served on its own or paired with cornbread, it’s a meal that brings comfort and joy to any table during the cold months.

Ground Beef and Lentil Soup

This Ground Beef and Lentil Soup is a hearty, protein-packed dish perfect for warming up on a chilly winter day. The combination of ground beef, earthy lentils, and a medley of vegetables creates a robust and comforting soup that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. It’s easy to prepare and even better the next day!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook the ground beef until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
4. Return the ground beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

This Ground Beef and Lentil Soup is a hearty, filling meal that’s ideal for winter evenings. It’s rich in flavor, loaded with nutrients, and perfect for batch cooking. Pair it with crusty bread for a comforting meal that will keep you warm and satisfied.

Ground Beef and Spinach Lasagna

This Ground Beef and Spinach Lasagna is a winter favorite that combines layers of cheesy goodness with hearty beef and nutrient-rich spinach. It’s the ultimate comfort dish for a family dinner or a special gathering, offering a delicious balance of flavor and texture that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 9 lasagna noodles, cooked
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 cup cooked spinach, drained
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook ground beef with onions and garlic until browned. Stir in tomato sauce, basil, oregano, and chili flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and cooked spinach until combined.
4. In a greased baking dish, layer lasagna noodles, ground beef sauce, ricotta mixture, and shredded mozzarella. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

This Ground Beef and Spinach Lasagna is a dish that never fails to impress. The rich, cheesy layers combined with the savory beef and spinach make it a standout winter meal. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete, soul-warming dinner.

Ground Beef and Barley Casserole

This Ground Beef and Barley Casserole is a hearty and wholesome dish that’s perfect for winter. Nutty barley pairs beautifully with seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth, all baked into a comforting casserole. It’s a nutritious, budget-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground beef until browned. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened.
3. Stir in barley, beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, and smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the barley is tender.
5. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and return to the oven uncovered for 5-10 minutes to melt.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

This Ground Beef and Barley Casserole is a filling, hearty meal that’s perfect for cold winter days. The nutty barley and savory beef make a delightful combination, and the simple ingredients make it an accessible, family-friendly dish. Serve it with a fresh green salad for a complete, wholesome dinner.

Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie

This Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie is a classic winter comfort food that warms both heart and soul. A savory ground beef and vegetable filling is topped with a creamy layer of mashed potatoes and baked to golden perfection. It’s the ultimate one-dish meal, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared or homemade)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook ground beef until browned. Add onions and carrots and sauté until softened.
3. Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Simmer for 10 minutes. Add peas and season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish and spread the mashed potatoes on top. For added richness, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

This Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie is a timeless winter classic, combining hearty flavors and creamy textures in every bite. It’s a dish that brings comfort and nostalgia, making it perfect for family meals and special occasions alike.

Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

This Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a quick, hearty dish perfect for a winter meal. The combination of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a touch of spices makes for a nutritious, budget-friendly dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and cook ground beef until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add chopped cabbage and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, chili flakes, and the cooked beef. Mix well and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

This Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is simple, flavorful, and satisfying—a perfect dish for busy winter evenings. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, it’s a go-to recipe that delivers comfort in every bite.

Cheesy Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers

These Cheesy Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers are a vibrant, hearty meal that’s ideal for winter. Sweet bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and cheese, then baked to perfection. It’s a wholesome dish that’s as satisfying as it is colorful.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place the peppers in a baking dish.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Fill each bell pepper with the beef mixture and top with shredded cheese.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

These Cheesy Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delicious and nutritious winter meal. They’re packed with protein, veggies, and comforting flavors, making them a hit with the whole family. Serve them on their own or with a side salad for a complete, satisfying dinner.

Ground Beef Chili Mac

This Ground Beef Chili Mac is a hearty, cheesy one-pot dish that combines the comfort of mac and cheese with the bold flavors of chili. Perfect for a cold winter evening, this recipe is filling, flavorful, and easy to make. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook ground beef until browned, then remove and set aside.
2. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper in the same pot until softened. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
3. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, and the cooked ground beef. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in macaroni and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

This Ground Beef Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that combines two favorites into one irresistible dish. It’s cheesy, hearty, and perfect for warming up on a cold winter evening. Enjoy it with a side of cornbread for the ultimate cozy meal.

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash

This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash is a simple, healthy, and flavorful meal perfect for winter. The sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes complements the savory ground beef, while a touch of spices ties everything together. It’s a versatile dish that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread diced sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 20 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in the roasted sweet potatoes and cooked beef. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Garnish with green onions and fresh cilantro before serving.

This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash is a flavorful, hearty dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. It’s perfect for warming up on a winter day, and its vibrant colors make it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Ground Beef Stroganoff

This Ground Beef Stroganoff is a quick and easy twist on the classic Russian dish, perfect for winter nights. With tender ground beef, creamy sauce, and buttery noodles, this recipe delivers a comforting meal in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz egg noodles, cooked
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook ground beef until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and mushrooms until softened. Sprinkle in flour and stir well.
3. Gradually pour in beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in sour cream, Dijon mustard, and the cooked ground beef. Simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve over egg noodles, garnished with fresh parsley.

This Ground Beef Stroganoff is the perfect winter comfort food, offering a creamy, savory dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Serve it with a side of steamed green beans or a simple salad for a balanced and delicious meal.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!