15 Healthy Ground Beef Recipes for Delicious and Nutritious Meals
Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that many people enjoy in their meals. Many healthy ground beef recipes can help you create delicious meals without compromising your wellness goals.
These recipes can be quick and easy, making them perfect for busy weeknights. From simple stir-fries to hearty casseroles, you can find a variety of options that suit your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy the satisfaction of cooking nutritious meals that your whole family will love.
1) Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a tasty and healthy option for dinner. You can fill them with lean ground beef, rice, and vegetables. They are colorful and make a great presentation on your table.
To start, choose your favorite bell peppers. Red, yellow, or green all work well. Cut the tops off and remove the seeds. This creates a perfect pocket for your filling.
For the filling, cook lean ground beef in a skillet until browned. Mix in cooked rice and your choice of seasonings. Stuff the mixture into the prepared peppers.
Bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until the peppers are tender, usually about 25-30 minutes. Enjoy your delicious and healthy stuffed bell peppers!
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
- Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned.
- Mix in cooked rice and seasonings.
- Stuff the mixture into the peppers.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until tender.
2) Korean-Inspired Beef Bowls
Korean-inspired beef bowls are a quick and tasty meal you can whip up in no time. They feature ground beef mixed with savory flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Start by cooking the beef in a skillet. You can add seasonings like soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of honey for sweetness. This creates a delicious sauce that enhances the beef.
Serve it over rice or cauliflower rice. Add fresh vegetables, like cucumbers or carrots, for crunch and color. Garnishing with sesame seeds or green onions can add extra flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Cooked rice or cauliflower rice
- Fresh vegetables (cucumbers, carrots, etc.)
Cooking Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
- Add ground beef and cook until brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in soy sauce, honey, garlic, and sesame oil.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve over rice with fresh vegetables.
3) Cauliflower Rice-Stuffed Peppers
Cauliflower rice-stuffed peppers make a tasty and healthy meal. They are low in carbs and full of flavor. You can mix and match bell peppers for a fun look.
Start by making the filling with cauliflower rice, lean ground beef, and your favorite spices. This mixture is not only nutritious but also satisfying.
Next, stuff the prepared mixture into halved bell peppers. Top with some cheese for extra flavor before baking.
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 cup cauliflower rice
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup no-salt-added tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons taco seasoning
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the bell peppers by cutting them in half and removing the seeds.
- In a pan, cook the ground beef until brown.
- Mix in cauliflower rice, taco seasoning, and tomato sauce.
- Stuff the mixture into each pepper half.
- Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.
4) Skillet Beef Potpie
A skillet beef potpie is a warm and comforting dish that’s easy to make. It combines ground beef with veggies and a flaky crust, all cooked in one pan. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a hearty meal without the fuss.
You can use a ready-made pie crust to save time. Just prepare your filling with lean ground beef, carrots, and peas for added nutrition. Top it with the crust and bake until golden brown.
This meal is perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying. Your whole family will love it!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and cook until soft.
- Stir in the ground beef, and cook until browned.
- Add carrots and peas, and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the filling into a baking dish and cover with pie crust.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
5) Chili with Veggies
Chili with veggies is a delicious and healthy dish you can make with ground beef. Adding vegetables boosts the nutrition and flavor. You can use ingredients like bell peppers, onions, and carrots for color and taste.
Start by browning your ground beef in a pot. Next, toss in chopped veggies and cook until they soften. Then add tomatoes, broth, and spices for a hearty mix.
You can enjoy this chili on its own or serve it with whole grain bread. It’s perfect for dinner and great for leftovers too.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add the diced onion, bell peppers, and carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth.
- Add chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-30 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
6) Healthy Meatloaf
Healthy meatloaf can be a great option for a weeknight dinner. You can use extra-lean ground beef along with vegetables for added nutrition.
Try mixing in shredded carrots, zucchini, or diced bell peppers. These ingredients not only boost flavor but also offer more vitamins.
You might want to use whole-wheat bread crumbs for a healthier base. This will help keep your meatloaf moist and flavorful while adding fiber.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) extra-lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup (50 g) whole-wheat bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup (75 g) shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup (75 g) chopped zucchini
- 1/2 cup (75 g) diced bell pepper
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix all ingredients until combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking pan.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes or until fully cooked.
7) Taco Casserole
Taco casserole is a fun and tasty way to enjoy your favorite taco flavors in one dish. You can use lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier option. This recipe combines meat, beans, veggies, and cheese for a satisfying meal.
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet. Then, mix in black beans, salsa, and spices. Layer this mixture with tortilla chips and cheese in a baking dish. Bake until everything is hot and the cheese is bubbly.
It’s an easy family dinner that takes around 20 minutes to prepare and cook. Your kids will love it!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz/425 g) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups tortilla chips
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add black beans and salsa; stir well.
- In a baking dish, layer the meat mixture with tortilla chips and top with cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted.
8) Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak is a comforting dish made with ground beef. It features juicy patties that are often topped with savory mushroom gravy. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner.
You can make it healthier by using lean ground beef and adding vegetables. Try serving it with steamed veggies or a side salad for a balanced meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup (50 g) bread crumbs
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) mushrooms (sliced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Cooking Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, bread crumbs, onion, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into oval patties.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
- Brown the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Remove patties and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add mushrooms and cook until soft.
- Stir in beef broth and simmer.
- Return patties to the skillet and cook until heated through.
9) Lasagna Soup
Lasagna soup gives you the yummy taste of traditional lasagna in a cozy bowl. It’s easy to make and perfect for any night.
Start by browning lean ground beef in a pot. You can also use ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.
Add onions and garlic for extra taste. Toss in crushed tomatoes and beef stock for a rich base. Season with herbs like basil and oregano.
For a heartier meal, mix in pasta. Choose sturdy shapes like bowtie or penne.
Let the soup simmer until the pasta is tender. Serve it hot, and enjoy a comforting dish that warms you up.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz (800g) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups (1 liter) beef stock
- 2 cups (200g) pasta
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a pot over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
- Then, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until they are softened.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and beef stock.
- Add the basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- After that, mix in the pasta and simmer until cooked through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
10) Hamburger Helper
Hamburger Helper is a classic dish that many enjoy for its comfort and ease. This version focuses on healthier ingredients while keeping the flavor intact. You can easily prepare it in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Start with lean ground beef, which is a great source of protein. You will also use pasta and a variety of seasonings to bring it all together. Adding some veggies like zucchini can boost the nutritional value as well.
With just six simple ingredients, you can have a tasty dinner ready in about 25 minutes. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef
- 2 cups (200 g) pasta
- 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
- 1 cup (150 g) chopped zucchini
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Then, add the chopped zucchini and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the pasta, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the pasta is cooked through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
11) Ground Beef Stir Fry
A ground beef stir fry is a quick and tasty meal that you can whip up in no time. You can customize it with your favorite veggies, making it a healthy choice.
Start by cooking lean ground beef in a pan until it’s nicely browned. Then, add a mix of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
For extra flavor, toss in garlic, ginger, and your favorite stir fry sauce. Serve it over rice, noodles, or even lettuce wraps for a fun twist.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup sugar snap peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch (2.5 cm) ginger, minced
- ¼ cup stir fry sauce
Cooking Instructions
- Heat a large pan over medium heat (375°F / 190°C).
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Then, stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
- Add the bell pepper and snap peas, cooking until tender.
- Finally, pour in the stir fry sauce and mix well.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.
12) Beef and Broccoli
Beef and broccoli is a tasty and healthy dish you can make quickly. This stir-fry combines ground beef with fresh broccoli, making it both nutritious and satisfying. You can enjoy it over rice for a complete meal.
To prepare this dish, you’ll need some simple ingredients. The flavors come together well with soy sauce, garlic, and a dash of sesame oil. Cooking it in one pan saves you time on cleanup too!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Cooked rice (Jasmine or your choice)
Cooking Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the broccoli and soy sauce, and cook until the broccoli is tender, about 5 minutes.
- Serve over cooked rice. Enjoy your meal!
13) Quinoa Beef Sloppy Joes
Quinoa Beef Sloppy Joes are a tasty and healthy twist on the classic recipe. You can use lean ground beef and mix it with quinoa for added nutrition. The dish is packed with protein and flavor, making it perfect for a family meal.
Start by browning the ground beef in a pan. Once it’s cooked, add cooked quinoa, diced onions, and bell peppers. Stir in your favorite barbecue sauce for a saucy finish.
Serve on whole-grain buns or lettuce wraps for a delicious option. This recipe is quick, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (454 g) lean ground beef
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- Whole-grain buns or lettuce wraps
Cooking Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Then, drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and cook until they are soft.
- Stir in the cooked quinoa and barbecue sauce.
- Cook for 5 minutes until heated through.
- Serve on buns or lettuce wraps.
14) Beef and Spinach Salad
This Beef and Spinach Salad is a simple and healthy dish you can enjoy any time. Spinach provides vitamins, while beef adds protein to keep you energized.
Start by marinating your steak with soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and pepper. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. Then, cook the steak in a hot skillet until it’s browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Toss the cooked beef with fresh spinach, tomatoes, and your favorite dressing. This salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound steak
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Marinate the steak for 15 minutes with soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C).
- Cook the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned.
- Then, slice the steak and toss it with spinach and tomatoes. Serve fresh.
15) Grilled Beef and Veggie Skewers
Grilled beef and veggie skewers are a great way to enjoy a healthy meal. They are colorful and packed with flavor. You can customize them with your favorite vegetables.
Start by marinating your beef in a mixture of olive oil, soy sauce, and your choice of spices. This will enhance the taste and keep the meat tender.
After marinating, thread the beef and vegetables onto skewers. Then, preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C).
Cook the skewers for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning them once. You want the beef to reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
These skewers are perfect for a quick dinner or a BBQ party. Enjoy them with rice or a fresh salad!
Cooking Instructions
- Marinate the beef in olive oil, soy sauce, and spices for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat the grill to 350°F (175°C).
- Thread beef and veggies onto skewers.
- Grill for 6 to 8 minutes, turning once, until the beef reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve and enjoy!