In the United States, we are used to seeing ground beef in the classics, like Burgers, tacos, and meatballs. But around the world, ground beef is used for so much more in the kitchen than just The Very Best Burgers. In fact, you’ll find it as the basis of many easy meals. So, what can you make? Here are some of our favorite (and easy) ground beef meals from across the globe.  

International ground beef recipe meal ideas that go beyond the familiar staples include:  

Spanish Beef Empanadas

Beef empanadas are like a handheld meat pie. While empanadas are a Spanish dish, you can find different variations on a meat pie in many cultures around the world. Make the filling with ground beef, vegetables, and spices. Many people swear by making their own dough, but there are also great pre-made options out there to make this meal even easier! Pick up a store-bought dough option, and in a pinch, you can even try a puff pastry dough.

In addition to being delicious, it has the convenience of being a self-contained meal that you can eat on the go! Empanadas are great to store and have as leftovers during the week or freeze to save for a different day. You can pop your frozen empanadas in the oven straight from the freezer, just be sure to add a couple extra minutes to the cooking time.

Indian Beef Curry

Across the pond, a curry is as almost as common as a Burger is in the U.S. It could be described as a stew in the way it’s prepared (slow cooking the meat is key). It is a one-bowl meal usually served atop flavorful rice like basmati or jasmine.

The curry spice flavors, and the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of the meat are what make this dish a favorite. You can’t go wrong with a one-dish meal!

English Shepherd’s Pie

A classic British comfort dish with ground beef layered with vegetables, gravy, and creamy mashed potatoes. A perfect winter meal to warm you up on a chilly night. 

It originated as a way to use leftover meat from a Sunday roast. It is still a favorite family meal as it can utilize ingredients that are on hand, like leftover meat and potatoes—a common household staple.

Swedish Meatballs

We’d describe them as the perfect party meatball. But not what you’d expect of a traditional meatball. Instead of tomato sauce, slow-cook meatballs in a creamy brown sauce and serve alongside lingonberry jam for a little bit of sweetness to balance the savory.

You can make them in large quantities for parties and entertaining, they are so easy to eat!

Asian Dumplings

Think of it as a deconstructed steamed meatball in a pocket. Dumpling dough wrappers can be found at chain grocery stores and Asian specialty stores alike. Spice them up with soy sauce, ginger, and wasabi.

They are light and flavorful and easier to make than you may think! Get the flavors from your favorite takeout spot right at home.  

We hope you are inspired! Now it’s time to get cooking. Pick up Schweid & Sons Signature Blend 1 lb Brick or the Butcher’s Blend 2 lb Loaf as the base of your next meal and get creative.   

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