How To Cook Ground Beef | 4 Different Easy Techniques

Sure, almost everyone knows how to cook ground beef, as it's one of the most commonly used proteins for main dishes. However, life can throw you curveballs and you may need to know how to prepare it using a different method.

Below I've included 4 different ways to cook ground beef using some of my favorite kitchen gadgets!

Why You'll Love These Different Options

• Versatile. No matter your skill level, you can learn how to cook ground beef using one of these methods.
• Efficient. Make the best use of your time by selecting the perfect method to fit your day.
• High Protein. All of the methods are guaranteed to cook up an ingredient that can be added to a variety of meals to make it a high-protein dish.

What Is The Best Way To Cook Ground Beef?

The best way to cook beef is the way that is most convenient for you!

Some days you have more time to devote to cooking than others. Since some methods take more time to complete than others, you may not always choose the same one.

Sometimes appliances break, or you're using them to make other dishes so you have to find a plan B.

This article contains instructions on how to cook ground beef if you aren't familiar with multiple methods or if you just want to try something new!

Do You Need Oil To Cook Ground Beef?

Whether you need to use oil to cook ground beef depends on the method you choose and the type of ground beef you are using.

Even the leanest varieties of ground beef are fairly high in fat, so once you begin to cook them, they will render quite a bit of that fat to keep it from sticking or drying out.

The only times I would suggest adding any oil to your ground beef while cooking it is if you are using a skillet that isn't nonstick.

How Long Should You Cook Ground Beef?

The amount of time it takes to cook ground beef will vary depending on which method you decide to choose. It can take anywhere from 7 minutes to 6 hours.

Regardless of the cooking method you choose, make sure to cook ground beef until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Stove Top Instructions

Sautéing hamburger is a quick and easy way to cook ground beef for various dishes. Use the steps below for the most commonly used method of cooking ground beef:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Cook the ground beef until it is browned and fully cooked through. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use a slotted spoon to remove the ground beef from the skillet, and drain any excess fat.

For easy and safe fat removal, I suggest using a slotted spoon to scoop the cooked ground beef onto a paper towel for added fat absorption without worrying about burning yourself.

Slow Cooker Instructions

Cooking ground beef in a slow cooker is easy and convenient. Here's how to do it:

1. Place the ground beef into the slow cooker and gently break it up into chunks with a spatula.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the ground beef is fully cooked and no longer pink.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the ground beef from the slow cooker, and drain any excess liquid.

If you prefer your ground beef to be chopped into smaller pieces for certain recipes, you may need to use the end of your spatula to break it into smaller bites periodically throughout the cooking cycle.

Instant Pot Instructions

Cooking ground beef in an Instant Pot is a convenient and fast way to get fully cooked, juicy, and flavorful beef in no time. It is very similar to the stovetop method but can make for easier cleanup or a good alternative if you don't have a stovetop available in instances like camping or RV travel.

1. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function.
2. Add the ground beef to the Instant Pot and use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the ground beef from the slow cooker, and drain any excess liquid.

Note that it is harder to regulate the temperature when you are cooking your ground beef when sauteing in an Instant Pot, as it only has one setting. Stir continuously while cooking to avoid burning.

Air Fryer Instructions

Cooking ground beef in an air fryer is a quick and healthy way to get fully cooked, juicy, and flavorful beef. Here's how you can do it in an air fryer with ease:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400F.
2. Place the ground beef in a single layer in the air fryer basket, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon or spatula.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the internal temperature of the beef reaches 160F.
5. Use a slotted spoon to remove the ground beef from the air fryer, and drain any excess fat.

For even easier cleanup, add aluminum foil to the bottom of your air fryer basket (with the cooking rack between the beef and the foil) so that it catches all of the renderings. Simply wait for the fats to solidify and toss the foil.

What To Use Cooked Ground Beef For

Cooked ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is great for meal prep, or just to have handy for busy nights to make your time in the kitchen shorter. Here are some popular uses for cooked ground beef:

1. Stuffed Poblano Peppers
2. Chili
3. Big Mac Salad
4. Meatloaf
5. Cheeseburger Casserole

If you're still looking for more recipes, check out these 36+ Keto Ground Beef recipes!

How To Store And Reheat

To properly store cooked ground beef, let it cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Label the container with the date it was cooked to keep track of freshness.

When you are ready to eat it, simply reheat the ground beef in a saucepan, microwave, or oven until it is hot and fully heated.

How Long Does It Last?

Cooked ground beef will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator and up to 2-6 months in the freezer.

It is important to store cooked ground beef properly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and to maintain its quality and flavor. Always make sure to check for any signs of spoilage, such as a bad odor or off-taste before consuming leftovers.

More Recipes Using Ground Beef

Many families love the convenience of cooking with ground beef because it's easy to freeze and can be bought relatively inexpensively in bulk.

If you want more recipe ideas for using up that ground beef in your fridge or freezer, check out some of my favorites:

• Mexican Ground Beef Casserole
• Stuffed Poblano Peppers
• Ethiopian Beef Stew

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