When it comes to quick and delicious meals, few things beat a good ground beef sandwich. Whether you’re looking for a classic comfort food or something with a little more flair, there’s a ground beef sandwich out there for everyone. And when you’re short on time, a flavorful and satisfying sandwich can be just what the doctor ordered.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory ground beef sandwich recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic cheeseburgers to international-inspired twists, these sandwiches are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So grab your apron, preheat your grill or skillet, and get ready to elevate your lunch game!
Classic Cheeseburger Sliders
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized cheeseburgers that pack a big punch. With a crispy bun, juicy beef patty, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh lettuce and tomato, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 slices American cheese
– 2 large lettuce leaves
– 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Form the ground beef into small patties, about 3 inches in diameter.
3. Grill the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. Assemble the sliders by spreading mayonnaise on the bottom bun, followed by a patty, a slice of cheese, lettuce, tomato, and finally the top bun.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sloppy Joe Sandwiches
A staple of American comfort food, Sloppy Joe sandwiches are a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe is a classic take on the original, with ground beef, tomato-based sauce, and served on soft buns.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the Sloppy Joe sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast them lightly.
6. Spoon the Sloppy Joe sauce over the buns and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Buns
Transform classic Philly cheesesteaks into a fun and portable snack with these soft, buttery buns filled with tender steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions. Perfect for game days, picnics, or just a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of hot dog buns
– 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Butter the inside of each hot dog bun.
3. Sauté the onions in butter until translucent. Set aside.
4. Grill or cook the steak to desired doneness, then slice into thin strips.
5. Assemble the buns by spreading a layer of cheese on the bottom half, followed by a few slices of steak and some sautéed onions. Top with the remaining bun half.
6. Place the stuffed buns on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Korean BBQ Beef Sandwiches
Savor the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with these juicy beef sandwiches. Marinated in a sweet and spicy mixture, the beef is then grilled to perfection and served on a toasted bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as flank steak or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 8 hamburger buns
– Sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Gochujang, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the beef from the marinade and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled beef on toasted buns.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Picadillo Tortas
Tortas are Mexico’s version of sandwiches, and when filled with picadillo – a rich and spicy beef mixture – they become an unbeatable combination. This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine in a simple yet satisfying sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 crusty bolillo rolls (or similar)
– Mayonnaise or crema (Mexican sour cream) for serving
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, queso fresco
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Slice the bolillo rolls in half lengthwise. Spoon the picadillo mixture onto each roll, followed by a dollop of mayonnaise or crema if desired.
5. Top with optional toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Gyro-Style Beef Pitas
Savor the flavors of Greece with these mouthwatering beef pitas, featuring tender and juicy beef wrapped in a warm pita bread and topped with fresh veggies and tangy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or top round)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
– Chopped cucumber, tomato, red onion, and parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add beef strips to the marinade and let sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Grill beef for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
6. Assemble pitas by slicing beef into thin strips and placing on the warm pita bread. Top with tzatziki sauce, cucumber, tomato, red onion, and parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Beef and Coleslaw Buns
Transform classic comfort food into a flavorful, easy-to-make meal with tender BBQ beef, creamy coleslaw, and soft buns.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck roast
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and 2 tablespoons water. Brush mixture evenly onto the beef.
3. Grill beef for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly.
4. Meanwhile, toast buns on grill or in oven.
5. In a separate bowl, combine shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing sliced beef onto toasted buns, topping with coleslaw.
Cooking Time:
– Beef: 15-20 minutes
– Coleslaw: 5 minutes (can be prepared ahead of time)
– Buns: 2-3 minutes (toasting)
Italian Meatball Sub
Italian Meatball Sub Recipe
Get ready for a flavorful twist on the classic sub sandwich with this Italian-inspired meatball version.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 Italian-style sub rolls (about 6 inches long)
– Marinara sauce, for serving
– Provolone or mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll them around to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Assemble the subs by placing 3-4 meatballs onto each sub roll, then spoon some marinara sauce on top of the meatballs. Top with sliced cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
French Dip Beef Sandwiches
French Dip Beef Sandwiches: A Classic Twist on a Beloved Favorite
Perfectly tender beef, melted Swiss cheese, and a rich au jus make these French Dip Beef Sandwiches a show-stopping addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 pounds beef top round or rump roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
– 4 hoagie rolls
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the broth and wine (if using); bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the oven.
6. Simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until the beef reaches your desired level of tenderness.
7. Assemble sandwiches by slicing the beef thinly, placing on hoagie rolls with melted Swiss cheese and serving with the au jus for dipping.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours
Spicy Beef Tacos in Toasted Buns
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines tender beef, bold spices, and toasted buns. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Toasted buns (8-10)
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla and serving on toasted buns. Add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Beef Hawaiian Rolls
Sweet and savory teriyaki beef meets soft and fluffy hawaiian rolls in this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 8-10 Hawaiian rolls
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tbsp of water.
3. Add the beef strips to the teriyaki mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the Hawaiian rolls on the sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
5. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the beef strips on top of the rolls.
6. Dot the tops of the rolls with the softened butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the beef is cooked through and the rolls are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Loaded Beef Nacho Sandwich
A twist on the classic nachos, this loaded sandwich takes the flavors of a plate of nachos and stacks them between two slices of bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons refried beans
– 2 slices of bread (Texas toast or similar)
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are soft.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading refried beans on each slice of bread, followed by a layer of beef mixture, tortilla chips, and shredded cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Beef Kefta Wraps
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with these delicious wraps filled with tender beef keftas, crispy vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, cucumber, red bell pepper, and feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble wraps by placing a few beef keftas on each pita, topped with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, red bell pepper, and feta cheese (if using). Serve with tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Beef Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the spicy kick of buffalo beef and melted cheddar.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup buffalo beef (pre-cooked, shredded or sliced)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with buffalo beef, shredded cheddar cheese, and a drizzle of buffalo wing sauce.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Cajun Beef Po’ Boy
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy Cajun beef po’ boy sandwich. Crispy fried beef, crunchy slaw, and tangy remoulade sauce come together in a perfect blend of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (flank steak or ribeye)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Coleslaw mix (cabbage, carrots, and onions)
– French bread (po’ boy style)
– Lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip beef strips in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry coated beef in hot oil until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
5. Assemble po’ boys by spreading remoulade sauce on bread, topping with fried beef, coleslaw, and lettuce leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Melt
Beef and Mushroom Melt: A savory sandwich filled with tender beef, sautéed mushrooms, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the mushrooms, garlic, and olive oil. Cook until the mushrooms are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Butter one side of each bread slice.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the beef-mushroom mixture on two slices of bread, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Place the remaining bread slices, buttered side up, on top of the filling.
7. Cook in a skillet or under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian-Inspired Beef Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional wraps, these Asian-inspired beef lettuce wraps are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With juicy beef, crunchy vegetables, and creamy sauces, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced green onions
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, cook the beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the bell pepper and green onions to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the beef mixture and stir-fry for another minute.
4. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble the wraps by placing a spoonful of the beef mixture onto each lettuce leaf.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Caramelized Onion Panini
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful combination of tender beef, sweet caramelized onions, and crispy bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced beef (such as top round or rump), cut into thin strips
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 slices of good-quality bread ( Ciabatta or baguette work well)
– 4 slices of cheddar cheese (optional)
– Mayonnaise or aioli (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook the beef strips for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3. In the same skillet, cook the sliced onions over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Assemble the panini by spreading a slice of bread with mayonnaise or aioli (if using), followed by a few slices of beef, some caramelized onions, and a slice of cheese (if using). Top with another slice of bread.
5. Grill the sandwich in a grill pan or under the broiler for 2-3 minutes per side, until crispy and melted.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 18 mouthwatering ground beef sandwich recipes! From classic cheeseburgers to international twists, this collection has something for everyone. Savor the flavors of Philly cheesesteak stuffed buns, Korean BBQ beef sandwiches, and Greek gyro-style pita wraps. Or try new favorites like Mexican picadillo tortas, Italian meatball subs, or Cajun beef po’ boys. With a range of options to suit every taste, you’ll never be stuck in a culinary rut again. So go ahead, fire up your grill or skillet, and get ready to serve up some serious sandwich satisfaction!
