Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for health when it comes to dinner? Look no further! Ground beef can be a nutritious and delicious addition to your meal routine, especially when paired with wholesome ingredients. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering and healthy ground beef recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
From classic dishes like stuffed peppers and tacos to innovative twists like cauliflower rice skillet and sweet potato hash, these recipes offer a wide range of flavors and textures to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. And with the added bonus of being quick and easy to prepare, you’ll have more time to focus on what matters most – spending quality time with family and friends.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these 20 delicious recipes, providing step-by-step instructions and nutritional information so you can make informed choices about your meals. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or simply looking for a healthy meal solution, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, get cooking, and enjoy the culinary ride!
Lean Turkey and Beef Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines lean turkey and beef with colorful bell peppers for a nutritious and flavorful meal. With only 30 minutes of cooking time, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb lean ground turkey
– 1/2 lb lean ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine turkey, beef, onion, garlic, rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Healthy Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Elevate your dinner game with this nutritious recipe that combines the flavors of beef, quinoa, and zucchini. These stuffed boats are a perfect blend of protein-packed beef, fiber-rich quinoa, and vitamin-packed zucchini.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked quinoa and set aside.
6. Stuff each zucchini boat with the beef and quinoa mixture, dividing evenly among the four boats.
7. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Carb Greek Beef Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional wraps, these low-carb Greek beef lettuce wraps are perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack. Juicy beef, tangy feta cheese, and crunchy lettuce come together in harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter lettuce)
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the olive oil, garlic, and oregano to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Season the beef mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the wraps by placing a portion of the beef mixture onto a lettuce leaf, followed by a sprinkle of feta cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Cauliflower Rice Skillet
Transform ordinary beef and mushroom into an extraordinary skillet dish by swapping traditional rice with nutritious cauliflower “rice”. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cauliflower florets to the skillet and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
5. Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir in the diced onion, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
High-Protein Beef and Lentil Soup
High-Protein Beef and Lentil Soup is a hearty and nutritious meal perfect for a chilly evening or a post-workout snack. With lean beef, fiber-rich lentils, and aromatic spices, this recipe is a delicious way to boost your protein intake.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Guilt-Free Beef and Sweet Potato Hash
Guilt-Free Beef and Sweet Potato Hash: A Deliciously Balanced Breakfast or Brunch Option
This hearty dish is a perfect combination of savory beef, sweet potatoes, and crunchy bell peppers. With its balanced flavors and textures, it’s a great way to start your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: eggs, shredded cheese, or avocado for added nutrition
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.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this savory and satisfying recipe that combines the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms with the richness of beef and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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 chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Stuff each mushroom cap with the beef and spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
6. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
8. Top with grated cheddar cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Brown Rice
A quick and nutritious meal that’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli to the pan and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve the beef and broccoli mixture over cooked brown rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Black Bean Taco Salad
This recipe combines tender beef, flavorful black beans, crunchy taco shells, and fresh greens to create a deliciously hearty salad that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 taco shells
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add taco seasoning to the beef and cook according to packet instructions.
4. In a separate pan, warm taco shells over low heat for about 5 minutes.
5. Assemble salad by placing mixed greens on a plate, topping with black beans, cooked beef, cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lightened-Up Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
In this recipe, we’ve taken a classic Chinese-inspired dish and given it a healthier twist by reducing the amount of oil used and incorporating leaner beef. The result is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean beef (90% lean), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium)
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cabbage to the pan and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Veggie Power Bowl with Avocado
This hearty bowl combines tender beef, colorful vegetables, and creamy avocado for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef striploin or flank steak
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook beef for 5-7 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. In a separate pan, cook mixed vegetables with garlic and olive oil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
4. Slice cooked beef into thin strips.
5. Assemble the power bowl by placing sliced beef on a plate, followed by roasted vegetables and diced avocado.
6. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and add a squeeze of soy sauce (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clean Eating Beef and Butternut Squash Chili
This hearty, flavorful chili is a perfect blend of savory beef and sweet butternut squash, all within the bounds of clean eating. This recipe makes 6 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot; stir to combine.
5. Stir in the butternut squash, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Cauliflower Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe combines the comfort of traditional shepherd’s pie with the added nutrition and flavor of cauliflower, creating a satisfying and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp 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 ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add cauliflower, onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer the mixture for 10-12 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and smooth out the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Protein-Packed Beef and Eggplant Casserole
This hearty casserole combines lean beef with tender eggplant and nutritious quinoa, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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 sliced eggplant, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the eggplant is tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, shredded cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the eggplant mixture in the bottom of the dish. Top with the quinoa mixture, then repeat the layers.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beef and Kale Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
A twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe features spaghetti squash as the “noodle” base filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, kale, and seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized spaghetti squash
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped fresh kale
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
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, garlic, and kale to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stuff each squash half with the meat mixture and top with shredded mozzarella cheese (if using).
6. Place the stuffed squash on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Healthy Beef and Tomato Pasta with Whole Wheat Noodles
This recipe combines the flavors of juicy beef, sweet tomatoes, and nutty whole wheat noodles for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz lean ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup whole wheat pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the whole wheat noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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 chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine the cooked noodles and tomato sauce mixture. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Carrot Meatloaf Muffins
Elevate your snack game with these savory meatloaf muffins packed with tender beef, crunchy carrots, and a hint of onion. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated carrots, chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lean Beef and Chickpea Stew
This comforting stew is a nutritious and flavorful way to enjoy lean beef and chickpeas. With aromatic spices and tender vegetables, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chickpeas and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Zucchini Noodle Bolognese
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and nutritious take on traditional bolognese sauce. Ground beef and zucchini noodles come together in a rich and savory dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the spiralized zucchini and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the sauce over low heat for at least 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve the bolognese sauce over cooked noodles, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Gluten-Free Beef and Mushroom Lettuce Cups
Elevate your lunch game with these flavorful lettuce cups filled with tender beef, sautéed mushrooms, and crunchy textures. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms, garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef and mushroom mixture onto a lettuce leaf.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknight meals with these 20 delicious and healthy ground beef recipes! From stuffed peppers and zucchini boats to lettuce wraps and skillet dinners, there’s something for everyone. These lean and mean dishes are packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, making them perfect for busy families or individuals looking for a quick and easy meal solution. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or something more adventurous, these recipes will keep your taste buds satisfied and your belly full.
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