When it comes to satisfying weeknight meals, nothing beats a simple ground beef and flour recipe. It’s budget-friendly, quick to whip up, and endlessly customizable. This humble combo of ground beef and flour might not sound glamorous, but it’s the backbone of countless comfort dishes—from savory gravies and hearty meat fillings to creamy casseroles and stuffed pastries.

Why This Simple Ground Beef and Flour Recipe Works

Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
Affordable ingredients – Ground beef and pantry-staple flour.
Rich, meaty flavor – The flour helps thicken and bind.
Incredibly adaptable – Use it in tacos, pies, pasta, and more.
Family-friendly – Everyone loves it, and leftovers are just as good!

Core Ingredients

Main:

1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

1/2 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne for heat
1 tablespoon tomato paste or Worcestershire sauce for umami
1/2 cup beef broth or water (to adjust consistency)

How to Make It – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

Add chopped onion and garlic to the pan. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Step 3: Stir in Flour

Sprinkle flour evenly over the beef mixture. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. This step thickens the mixture.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Simmer

Add broth or water, little by little, stirring constantly until you get your desired consistency. Simmer for 5 minutes until thick and saucy.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Add salt, pepper, and any additional spices. Serve hot or use in another dish.

Recipe Variations

1. Creamy Ground Beef Gravy

Add 1/2 cup milk or cream to the flour-thickened beef for a rich gravy. Serve over mashed potatoes or biscuits.

2. Spiced Taco Beef Filling

Add chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Use as taco or burrito filling.

3. Shepherd’s Pie Base

Use the beef and flour mix as a base layer under mashed potatoes. Bake until golden.

4. Sloppy Joe Style

Add ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and a splash of vinegar. Serve on soft buns.

5. Stuffed Peppers or Pastries

Let the mixture cool and stuff it into bell peppers or pastry dough for a savory meal.

Smart Tips for Best Results

Use a heavy-bottomed pan to avoid scorching.
Toast the flour slightly for a nutty flavor.
Don’t skip draining fat if the beef is very greasy.
Deglaze with a splash of broth to get flavorful bits off the bottom of the pan.
Adjust consistency by adding more or less liquid.
Let the mixture rest a few minutes before serving—it thickens as it cools.

How to Serve This Ground Beef and Flour Mix

Over rice or mashed potatoes
In tortillas, taco shells, or pita bread
Stuffed in bell peppers or mushrooms
Baked into puff pastry or hand pies
As a meaty topping on polenta or toast

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth to loosen.

Nutrition and Dietary Notes

High in protein and iron from beef
Flour adds some carbohydrates and acts as a thickener
Can be made gluten-free by using GF flour
Add more veggies like carrots, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Just add a bit of extra fat or oil for moisture.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, skip milk or cheese-based add-ins and use broth.

What’s the best flour to use?
All-purpose is classic, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred.

Can I add vegetables directly to the skillet?
Absolutely! Try peas, corn, mushrooms, carrots, or spinach.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Very much so! Make a big batch and freeze in portions.

Pairing Ideas

Buttered noodles or egg noodles
Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad
Biscuits, cornbread, or dinner rolls
Sautéed greens or coleslaw for freshness

Final Thoughts: Why This Simple Ground Beef and Flour Recipe Belongs in Your Weekly Rotation

Sometimes the best meals are the simplest ones—and this simple ground beef and flour recipe proves it. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a savory, comforting meal that fits almost any occasion. Whether you keep it classic or put your own twist on it, this dish is the ultimate example of how humble ingredients can shine.

So next time you’re staring at a pound of ground beef and wondering what to make, remember: a little flour, some seasoning, and your creativity are all you need to make something truly satisfying.