Are you a fan of hearty, comforting meals that are also good for you? Look no further! Beef is a great source of protein and can be incorporated into a variety of delicious and nutritious dishes. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering and easy-to-make healthy beef recipes that will satisfy your cravings while keeping your diet on track.
From classic stir-fries to flavorful skewers, and from comforting casseroles to fresh salads, these recipes showcase the versatility and richness of beef. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick weeknight meals or an outdoor enthusiast seeking fuel for your adventures, we’ve got you covered with our carefully curated collection of healthy beef recipes.
So, without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the world of healthy beef cooking!
Grilled Lemon Herb Beef Skewers
Grilled Lemon Herb Beef Skewers: A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional beef skewers, perfect for a summer barbecue or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
3. Add the beef cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread the marinated beef onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each cube.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – it’s fast, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. With just a few simple ingredients and 15 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye work well)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, broccoli, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Add beef back into the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Beef and Sweet Potato Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the rich flavor of beef with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option. With minimal added sugar and no artificial preservatives, this chili is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
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 onion, minced garlic, and diced 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.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes, canned tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines savory beef and quinoa with sweet bell peppers for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
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 skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa and 1/2 cup water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef and quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover with shredded cheese (if using) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lean Beef and Spinach Lasagna
Elevate your pasta game with this healthy twist on a classic favorite! This lean beef and spinach lasagna combines the richness of ground beef with the nutritional benefits of fresh spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
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, spinach, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is well combined.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the beef and spinach mixture. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
6. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of cheese.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines tender beef, sautéed mushrooms, and crisp lettuce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8 large lettuce leaves
– Optional: your favorite toppings (avocado, tomato, cheese, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Cook beef strips in a pan with olive oil over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
2. In the same pan, add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender and fragrant.
3. Add soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and salt to the mushroom mixture; stir to combine.
4. Lay lettuce leaves flat and divide the beef-mushroom mixture among them.
5. Serve immediately and customize with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Beef and Vegetable Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s packed with nutrients and flavor. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean beef (such as sirloin or round), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Beef and Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
This recipe combines the flavors of grilled beef, sautéed zucchini noodles, and creamy pesto for a healthy and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strip loin
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness. Let rest.
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. Stir in the pesto sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Slice the grilled beef against the grain into thin strips.
6. Combine the cooked zucchini noodles and beef slices. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Cauliflower Rice Bowl
This hearty and flavorful dish combines tender beef, crunchy cauliflower “rice,” and savory spices for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
4. Add the cauliflower florets and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Return the beef strips to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Beef and Kale Stir-Fry with Ginger
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines tender beef, crisp kale, and the warmth of ginger. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups kale leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or oyster sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add kale leaves to the pan and stir-fry until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return beef strips to the pan and stir-fry until combined with kale mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce or oyster sauce.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Avocado Salad with Lime Dressing
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this recipe combines tender beef, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb grilled or cooked beef (sirloin or ribeye work well), sliced into thin strips
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Add sliced beef and diced avocado on top of the greens mixture.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time: 5 minutes, cooking time: 0 minutes)
Beef and Black Bean Tacos
Savor the flavor of Mexico with this hearty and delicious recipe that combines tender beef, nutritious black beans, and crispy tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, for serving
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and black beans. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the beef and bean mixture onto a warmed tortilla, then topping with cheese and your choice of optional toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful recipe combines tender beef strips with fresh asparagus and savory soy sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and asparagus to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Carrot Stew with Herbs
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. The beef and carrots are cooked to tender perfection in a flavorful broth infused with fresh herbs, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef, then set aside.
3. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add carrots, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf; cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add browned beef, broth, and red wine (if using); bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry with Sesame
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe combines tender beef strips, crunchy cabbage, and savory sesame seeds for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vegetable oil, and sesame oil.
2. Add beef strips to the marinade and let it sit for 5-7 minutes.
3. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Remove beef from the pan and set aside.
6. Add shredded cabbage, minced garlic, and sesame seeds to the pan.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until cabbage is tender-crisp.
8. Return beef to the pan and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Beef and Tomato Stuffed Eggplant
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty Beef and Tomato Stuffed Eggplant dish, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. Tender eggplant slices filled with rich beef and tomato mixture will surely delight your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each eggplant slice with the beef mixture, overlapping slices slightly.
7. Place stuffed eggplant on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until eggplant is tender.
9. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Green Bean Curry
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines tender beef strips with crunchy green beans and a blend of Indian spices, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed green beans, trimmed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add green beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer, uncovered, over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your meal with this savory twist on a classic mushroom dish, combining tender beef, wilted spinach, and rich flavors. Perfect for a satisfying dinner or impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms by wiping them gently with a damp cloth.
3. In a pan, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves until wilted.
6. Stuff each mushroom cap with the beef mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the mushrooms.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Chickpea Stew with Turmeric
This flavorful stew combines tender beef, creamy chickpeas, and the earthy warmth of turmeric. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the browned beef from pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, turmeric, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or overnight.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Beef and Butternut Squash Casserole
A comforting, flavorful casserole perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion. This recipe combines tender beef, sweet butternut squash, and creamy sauce with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic, butternut squash, and thyme to the skillet; cook until squash is tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked beef mixture and sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavor without sacrificing your health! This article presents 20 delicious and nutritious beef recipes that are easy to make. From classic stir-fries to hearty stews, these dishes showcase the versatility of beef as a healthy protein source. Whether you’re a fan of international flavors or comfort food, there’s something for everyone on this list. Discover new ways to cook with beef and enjoy the perfect balance of taste and nutrition in every bite!
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