Ground beef has long been a staple in Canadian households. It’s affordable, versatile, easy to cook, and—let’s be honest—comforting. Whether it’s a classic meatloaf, a bubbling pot of spaghetti sauce, or a late-night batch of tacos, ground beef has a way of showing up when we need it most.
In 2025, Canadians are getting more creative in the kitchen, mixing global flavours with comfort food classics and adding a nutritious twist where they can. So if you’re looking to level up your meal plan, here are some must-try ground beef recipes that’ll keep your dinners fresh, exciting, and oh-so-satisfying.
1. Smoky Maple Beef Sliders
A true Canadian twist on a backyard favourite.
Why try it?
Mini burgers are always a hit, and these sliders feature a smoky spice rub with a hint of maple syrup for sweetness. Perfect for gatherings or a casual dinner with fries.
Ingredients:
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1 lb lean ground beef
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1 tbsp pure maple syrup
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Slider buns, cheese slices, and toppings of choice
Pro Tip: Serve with caramelized onions and a tangy Dijon-mayo spread for extra flavour.
2. Beef and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
A modern, healthier take on the old-school dish.
Why try it?
Lentils stretch the beef (great for the grocery budget!) and add protein and fibre. Top it with creamy mashed potatoes—or go half cauliflower mash for a lighter option.
Quick Ingredients:
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Ground beef, green lentils, onion, garlic, frozen peas, carrots, beef broth, and mashed potatoes
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Season with thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of ketchup for that classic vibe
Canadian Touch: Try mixing in some shredded old cheddar into the mash for a gooey, golden topping.
3. Korean-Style Beef Bowls
Fast, flavourful, and full of umami.
Why try it?
It’s a 20-minute meal that hits all the right notes—sweet, savoury, and a little spicy. Serve over rice or quinoa with quick-pickled veggies and a fried egg on top.
Main flavours:
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Soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and a pinch of red pepper flakes
Fresh additions:
Top with green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo if you're feeling fancy.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Tex-Mex Flair
A gluten-free, veggie-packed weeknight win.
Why try it?
They’re customizable, easy to prep ahead, and perfect for using up leftover rice or beans.
What you'll need:
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Ground beef
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Cooked rice or quinoa
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Black beans, corn, diced tomatoes
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Taco seasoning
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Bell peppers (halved and seeded)
To finish: Top with cheese and bake until bubbly. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
5. One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta
All the flavour of a cheeseburger—with way less mess.
Why try it?
Because sometimes you just want to throw everything in a pot and be done with it. Kids and adults alike love this one.
Essential ingredients:
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Ground beef, elbow macaroni, beef broth, cheddar cheese, milk, ketchup, mustard, onion, and pickles (yes, really)
Shortcut: Use pre-shredded cheese and jarred relish if you're short on time.
6. Greek-Style Beef Lettuce Wraps
Fresh, fast, and flavour-packed.
Why try it?
This low-carb meal is perfect for lunch or a light supper. The savoury beef is loaded with Mediterranean spices and topped with creamy tzatziki.
Season with:
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Garlic, oregano, lemon zest, salt, pepper
Add-ins:
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Chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, crumbled feta
Serve in: Romaine or butter lettuce leaves, or stuff into pita halves if carbs aren't a concern.
7. Beef and Barley Soup (Slow Cooker Friendly)
A hearty bowl for chilly nights.
Why try it?
It’s classic Canadian comfort, made even better with local root veggies and fresh herbs.
What goes in:
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Ground beef, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, pearl barley, beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf
Make it Canadian: Throw in a splash of Worcestershire or HP sauce for added depth.
8. Spiced Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
A one-pan meal that’s both nourishing and filling.
Why try it?
The sweet-savory contrast is irresistible, and it reheats beautifully for next-day lunches.
Ingredients:
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Ground beef, cubed sweet potatoes, red pepper, onion, spinach
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Spices: cumin, paprika, cinnamon, garlic
Finish with: A dollop of Greek yogurt and chopped parsley or cilantro.
9. Asian Beef Lettuce Cups
Similar to the Korean bowl, but finger-friendly.
Why try it?
Great as a snack, appetizer, or light dinner—and surprisingly filling.
Cook with:
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Garlic, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar
Top with:
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Crunchy water chestnuts, green onion, shredded carrots, and crushed peanuts
10. Classic Canadian Meatloaf (With a 2025 Twist)
Because meatloaf will never go out of style.
Why try it?
This one’s got oats instead of breadcrumbs for extra fibre, and a tangy glaze made with maple syrup and grainy mustard.
What you’ll need:
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Ground beef, oats, onion, garlic, egg, milk, salt, pepper
Glaze:
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1 tbsp maple syrup, 2 tbsp ketchup, 1 tsp grainy mustard
Bake at: 350°F for 50–60 minutes. Let it rest before slicing.
Tips for Cooking Ground Beef in 2025
1. Go for lean or extra lean.
Cuts with less fat reduce grease but still offer lots of flavour—especially when paired with bold spices or sauces.
2. Bulk it up.
Stretch your beef with lentils, mushrooms, zucchini, or riced cauliflower. Great for your budget and your health.
3. Batch cook.
Brown 2–3 pounds of ground beef at once, then freeze it in portions for easy weeknight meals.
4. Try local and grass-fed options.
Not only are you supporting Canadian farmers, but grass-fed beef tends to be higher in omega-3s and often more flavourful.
Wrapping It Up
Ground beef might seem basic, but in the hands of a creative cook (that’s you), it becomes the foundation for dozens of delicious meals. From east coast chowder-inspired dishes to global fusion bowls, there’s no limit to what you can do with a pound of beef and a bit of imagination.
So in 2025, challenge yourself to go beyond spaghetti and tacos (though we love those too!) and try something new. Whether it’s adding unexpected ingredients like lentils or switching up the seasoning game, these recipes will keep your taste buds on their toes all year long.
Ready to cook?
Pick one or two recipes from the list, grab some ground beef, and get sizzling. And don’t forget to share your favourites with friends—or better yet, invite them over for dinner. After all, food tastes better when shared.
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