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How to Cook Ground Beef: The Ultimate Guide for Juicy, Flavorful Dinners

Basic Stovetop Ground Beef

This dependable stovetop method makes well-browned, seasoned ground beef in about 15–20 minutes. It is perfect for tacos, pasta, chili, casseroles, rice bowls, and other easy dinners.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound (450 g) Ground beef, preferably 80–90% lean
  • 1 tablespoon Neutral cooking oil, such as vegetable or canola, only if using lean beef
Aromatics
  • 1/2 medium Yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
Seasonings
  • 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
Optional Seasonings
  • 1/2 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil only when using very lean ground beef; beef with a little more fat generally supplies enough for the pan.
  2. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften. Add the minced garlic during the final 30 seconds so it becomes fragrant without burning.
  3. Add the ground beef and leave it undisturbed for about 1–2 minutes to encourage browning. Break it into small crumbles with a spatula, gradually rather than aggressively mashing it all at once.
  4. Continue cooking for 8–12 minutes total, stirring occasionally, until no pink remains and the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  5. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and any optional paprika, chili powder, or Worcestershire sauce. Taste carefully, drain excess fat if necessary, and use immediately.

Notes

Use a wide skillet and avoid overcrowding it. If cooking more than the pan can hold comfortably, work in batches so the beef browns instead of steaming. Refrigerate leftovers promptly in a covered container and reheat until hot.