Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can fit into countless recipes. Whether you're meal-prepping for the week, feeding a family, or trying to eat a little healthier, there are plenty of options that strike the balance between flavour and nutrition. In this blog post, we’ll explore some tasty, healthy ground beef recipes that are easy to make and sure to satisfy.
Why Choose Ground Beef?
Ground beef is not only affordable but also an excellent source of protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Choosing lean or extra-lean ground beef can help reduce saturated fat content while retaining all the nutritional benefits. When paired with nutrient-rich vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, it’s easy to create well-balanced meals that suit various dietary preferences.
1. Healthy Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This stir-fry is a quick and easy dish packed with protein and colourful veggies. It's perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- Optional: cooked brown rice or quinoa
Instructions:
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Stir in garlic and ginger, then add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Stir in soy sauce and toss to combine.
- Serve on its own or over brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
2. Zucchini Beef Boats
Zucchini boats are a fun, low-carb way to enjoy a classic ground beef dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1 cup tomato sauce (low-sodium)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create “boats.”
- Place the zucchini halves on a baking tray.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef with onion, seasoning, salt, and pepper until browned.
- Mix the cooked beef with tomato sauce and spoon the mixture into the zucchini boats.
- Top with shredded cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted.
3. Healthy Beef Chili
Chili is a comfort food classic that can be made healthier by using lean ground beef and loading it with beans and vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) extra-lean ground beef
- 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned.
- Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add beans, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and corn.
- Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve on its own or with a dollop of Greek yogurt and chopped cilantro.
4. Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
This one-pan meal combines sweet potatoes with savoury ground beef for a filling, nutrient-packed dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sweet potatoes and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add onion, garlic, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in spinach and cooked ground beef. Cook until spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
- Serve hot.
5. Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps
For a low-carb option, these lettuce wraps are fresh, crunchy, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1 head butter or romaine lettuce, leaves separated
- 1/2 cup diced water chestnuts
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated ginger
Instructions:
- Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in ginger, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, water chestnuts, and carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and spoon the mixture into lettuce leaves.
- Top with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Tips for Cooking Healthy Ground Beef Recipes
- Choose Leaner Cuts: Opt for lean or extra-lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- Drain Excess Fat: If using regular ground beef, drain the fat after cooking to make the dish lighter.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Adding vegetables not only boosts the nutritional value but also stretches the beef further, making your meals more cost-effective.
- Use Healthy Cooking Oils: Replace butter with olive oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil for healthier fats.
- Limit Sodium: Use low-sodium sauces, broths, and seasonings to keep your recipes heart-healthy.
Ground beef doesn’t have to mean indulgent or heavy meals. With these healthy recipes, you can enjoy all the benefits of ground beef while staying on track with your wellness goals. Whether it’s a comforting bowl of chili or a low-carb lettuce wrap, these dishes are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
Happy cooking, and bon appétit!
