When it comes to creating delicious and well-rounded meals, few combinations are as satisfying as a hearty serving of meat paired with a variety of colorful vegetables. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering meat and vegetable recipes that will take your cooking game to the next level. From classic stir-fries and fajitas to comforting casseroles and stews, these savory dishes are sure to become staples in your kitchen repertoire.
From tender beef and crispy broccoli to succulent lamb and flavorful eggplant, each of these recipes is carefully crafted to showcase the perfect balance between rich meats and vibrant vegetables. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and easy meals or a foodie seeking inspiration for a special occasion, we’ve got you covered with these 20 savory meat and vegetable recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes and get ready to ignite your taste buds!
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a perfect combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add broccoli and garlic; cook until broccoli is tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return beef to the pan and pour in the sauce mixture. Stir everything together and cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Vegetable Skewers
A delicious and healthy recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering. This flavorful dish is easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken and vegetables to the bowl; toss to coat with marinade.
4. Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pork and Cabbage Dumplings
Pork and Cabbage Dumplings Recipe
These tender dumplings are filled with a delicious combination of pork, cabbage, and spices, making them a hearty and satisfying meal or snack. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of Eastern European cuisine in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten (for wrapping)
– Water, for boiling
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, onion, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add flour and mix until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 8-10 portions. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Brush edges with beaten egg.
5. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently add dumplings, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lamb and Eggplant Curry
This flavorful curry combines tender lamb with rich eggplant, aromatic spices, and a hint of sweetness, making it a perfect blend of Indian-inspired flavors. Serve over basmati rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or ground lamb
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add eggplant slices and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer curry over low heat for at least 20-25 minutes or up to an hour for a richer flavor.
Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes
Turkey and Zucchini Meatballs
Elevate your dinner routine with these moist and savory Turkey and Zucchini Meatballs, perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinara sauce and pasta
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
4. Use your hands or a spoon to shape into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ball.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with your favorite marinara sauce and pasta, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stew
This classic stew recipe combines tender beef, savory mushrooms, and rich flavors in a comforting and easy-to-make dish perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the broth, wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Chicken and Bell Pepper Fajitas
A flavorful and spicy twist on the classic Tex-Mex dish, these chicken and bell pepper fajitas are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 packet fajita seasoning
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add the bell peppers and onion to the skillet; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and fajita seasoning to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the pepper mixture.
6. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the fajitas by placing the chicken and pepper mixture onto the tortillas. Add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Pork and Green Bean Stir-Fry
A classic combination of savory pork and crunchy green beans, cooked to perfection in a flavorful stir-fry. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or loin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to skillet. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add green beans to skillet; cook until tender-crisp, about 4 minutes.
5. Return pork to skillet; stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lamb and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory taste of lamb with the nutritious benefits of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook lamb over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, and spinach to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is well combined and the spinach has wilted.
5. Stuff each pepper with the lamb and spinach mixture, filling them as full as possible.
6. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and top each pepper with feta cheese crumbles (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Turkey and Carrot Shepherd’s Pie
This twist on the classic shepherd’s pie combines the flavors of turkey and carrots with a creamy mashed potato topping. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey, onion, carrots, peas and carrots, olive oil, garlic, and thyme until the turkey is browned and the vegetables are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry
This classic stir-fry recipe combines tender beef strips with crisp asparagus and savory soy sauce, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strip (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add the asparagus to the pan and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pan, along with soy sauce. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the beef is coated in the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and filling breakfast or brunch option that combines the richness of chicken with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. While the chicken is cooking, heat another tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and lightly browned.
6. Once the chicken is done, add it to the skillet with the sweet potato mixture. Toss everything together to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Pork and Kale Soup
Warm up with this hearty and comforting soup that combines the tender flavors of pork and kale.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup diced kale (curly or lacinato work well)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside. Add the onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in the kale, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the kale is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the cooked pork back into the pot and stir to combine.
7. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness and depth to the soup.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lamb and Cauliflower Rice Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl that combines tender lamb, roasted cauliflower, and creamy rice. Perfect as a main course or as a meal prep option for the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or ground lamb
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook rice according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add lamb and cook, breaking up with a spoon if using ground lamb, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper. Serve lamb over roasted cauliflower and rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Turkey and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines the savory taste of turkey with the earthy sweetness of Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced cooked turkey breast
– 2 cups trimmed Brussels sprouts, cut into halves
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet, cut side down. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the cooked turkey breast, soy sauce, and honey to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the turkey is well coated with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Snap Pea Salad
This refreshing salad combines the savory flavors of grilled beef with the crunch of snap peas, all tied together with a tangy dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strip loin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups snap peas, trimmed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
3. Add snap peas to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Slice grilled beef into thin strips and add to the bowl.
5. Toss all ingredients together to combine.
6. Serve on top of mixed greens.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chicken and Butternut Squash Curry
This recipe combines the comfort of chicken with the sweetness of butternut squash, all wrapped up in a flavorful curry. Perfect for a chilly evening or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pan, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add squash, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and pour in coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Pork and Bok Choy Noodle Bowl
This recipe combines the savory flavors of pork, bok choy, and noodles for a quick and satisfying meal. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious bowl of comfort food that’s perfect for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cups bok choy (Chinese cabbage), chopped
– 1 cup cooked rice noodles
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the garlic, bok choy, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lamb and Tomato Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of rich flavors and tender textures, making it an ideal comfort food for any occasion. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions and garlic; cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomatoes, red wine (if using), tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the stew to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Turkey and Green Bean Casserole
This comforting casserole is a staple of many American families, perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners. With its creamy sauce, tender turkey, and crisp green beans, it’s a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the green beans and onion in butter until tender.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt.
4. Add the cooked turkey and green bean mixture to the soup mixture; stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle French-fried onions evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 20 savory meat and vegetable recipes, perfectly balanced for a delicious meal. From classic beef and broccoli stir-fry to innovative lamb and eggplant curry, there’s something for everyone. Savor juicy turkey and zucchini meatballs, or try hearty pork and cabbage dumplings. For a comforting twist, indulge in beef and mushroom stew or turkey and carrot shepherd’s pie. Whether you’re in the mood for skewers, soup, or casserole, this collection of recipes has got you covered.