Are you looking for ways to make healthier meals that still satisfy your cravings? Look no further! Ground beef can be a nutritious and flavorful addition to many dishes, as long as you choose lean options and pair it with nutrient-dense vegetables. In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious and healthy ground beef recipes that are perfect for busy home cooks.
From classic stir-fries to hearty casseroles, these recipes showcase the versatility of ground beef and offer a range of flavors and textures to suit any taste. Whether you’re looking for gluten-free, low-carb, or simply quick and easy meal options, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll take a closer look at each of these 20 healthy ground beef recipes, including lean ground beef and veggie stir-fry, healthy ground beef and quinoa stuffed peppers, and many more. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these nutritious and tasty ideas!
Lean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir-Fry
A quick and healthy stir-fry recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from the lean ground beef and colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup chopped snow peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the lean ground beef in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5 minutes).
2. Add the sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, and snow peas to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Healthy Ground Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines lean ground beef, quinoa, and colorful bell peppers for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked quinoa, ground beef mixture, and seasonings.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Carb Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet
A hearty, low-carb skillet dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. This recipe combines ground beef with cauliflower “rice” and flavorful seasonings for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add cauliflower florets and stir to combine with the meat mixture.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until cauliflower is tender.
6. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that’s packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (90% lean)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or chili powder for added flavor
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 as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, toss the sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread the sweet potato mixture on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
6. Combine the cooked ground beef mixture and roasted sweet potatoes in a large skillet. Stir to combine.
7. Season with paprika or chili powder if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Ground Beef Blend Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles
Elevate your meal game with these flavorful and nutritious meatballs! Made with a blend of turkey and ground beef, they’re the perfect addition to your zucchini noodle dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 medium zucchini
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, ground beef, onion, egg, breadcrumbs, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, spiralize the zucchini and cook in a large skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil until tender.
6. Serve meatballs with zucchini noodles and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps with Avocado
A delicious and nutritious twist on traditional burgers, these lettuce wraps are packed with flavor and nutrients. With lean ground beef, crunchy avocado, and fresh lettuce, this recipe is a great option for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and/or chopped cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef for 5-6 minutes, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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 few spoonfuls of cooked ground beef onto a lettuce leaf, followed by sliced avocado, chopped onion, and any desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ground Beef and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe for Ground Beef and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms!
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped spinach, garlic, and oregano to the skillet; cook until spinach is wilted.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the beef and spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four caps.
5. Drizzle tops with olive oil and sprinkle with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
6. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Ground Beef and Black Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili that’s packed with nutrients from ground beef, black beans, and a blend of spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz low-sodium beef broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lean Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This quick and nutritious stir-fry recipe combines lean ground beef with tender broccoli and a hint of soy sauce for a flavorful and healthy meal. With just 20 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy this delicious dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir-fry for 10-12 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Healthy Ground Beef and Eggplant Casserole
This hearty casserole is a great way to enjoy the flavors of eggplant and ground beef while keeping it healthy with whole wheat pasta, lean beef, and plenty of veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced
– 1 cup whole wheat pasta, cooked and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add sliced eggplant, onion, and garlic to the skillet and cook until the eggplant is tender.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, and mozzarella cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with Parmesan cheese and dried oregano.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Ground Beef and Kale Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory flavors of ground beef and kale with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in chopped kale and cook until wilted.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and add shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Healthy Ground Beef and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup is a nutritious and delicious way to get your daily dose of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. With the perfect blend of tender ground beef, flavorful lentils, and aromatic spices, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery and continue cooking until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Low-Fat Ground Beef and Zucchini Lasagna
A healthier twist on a classic favorite, this lasagna recipe combines ground beef with sautéed zucchini for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup low-fat ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add zucchini, onion, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create layers of lasagna noodles, meat sauce, and cheese mixture, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Healthy Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A quick and nutritious stir-fry that combines the benefits of lean ground beef, crunchy cabbage, and flavorful soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Remove the cooked beef from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced cabbage and cook until it starts to soften (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles, or enjoy as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef and Chickpea Buddha Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with ground beef, chickpeas, vegetables, and a hint of Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked brown rice or quinoa for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chickpeas, mixed vegetables, garlic, soy sauce, honey, and ginger to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve over cooked brown rice or quinoa.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Ground Beef and Butternut Squash Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that combines lean ground beef with roasted butternut squash, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey (or beef)
– 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the cubed butternut squash, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lean Ground Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. This recipe combines lean ground beef with tender asparagus, garlic, and ginger for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Return the ground beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Healthy Ground Beef and Brown Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
Elevate a classic comfort food with this nutritious twist on stuffed tomatoes. This recipe combines the flavors of savory ground beef, nutty brown rice, and fresh herbs for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add cooked brown rice, parsley, and cheese (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Stuff each tomato with the meat and rice mixture, filling to the top.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
7. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Hash
A hearty, flavorful twist on the classic hash, combining tender ground beef with caramelized Brussels sprouts and crispy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet, stirring to combine with the meat mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sprouts are tender.
5. In a separate pan, add the sliced potatoes and drizzle with olive oil. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until crispy and golden brown (about 10-12 minutes).
6. To assemble the hash, place half of the cooked potatoes on a serving platter or individual plates. Top with the ground beef and Brussels sprouts mixture, finishing with the remaining potatoes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Healthy Ground Beef and Carrot Meatloaf
This meatloaf recipe is a twist on the classic dish, packed with nutritious carrots and lean ground beef. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 large carrot, grated
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated carrot, oats, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 20 delicious and nutritious ground beef recipes! From classic stir-fries to stuffed peppers and casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Discover healthy twists on favorite dishes, such as lean ground beef and veggie stir-fry, quinoa-stuffed peppers, and low-carb cauliflower rice skillet. Plus, find creative ways to incorporate ground beef into your meals, like meatballs with zucchini noodles or lettuce wraps with avocado. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option, these recipes are sure to please.