As a fitness enthusiast, you know that fueling your body with the right foods is crucial for achieving and maintaining your goals. One protein-packed staple that should be in your diet rotation is beef! Not only is it rich in essential amino acids, but it’s also an excellent source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins. However, many traditional beef recipes can be high in calories, fat, and sodium – making them less than ideal for those looking to optimize their nutrition.
But fear not! With these 20 delicious and healthy beef recipes, you can indulge in the flavor and satisfaction of a great meal without sacrificing your fitness goals. From grilled skewers to hearty stews, we’ve got you covered with a variety of mouthwatering options that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Grilled Garlic Herb Beef Skewers
Grilled Garlic Herb Beef Skewers Recipe
Summary: Elevate your grilling game with these flavorful and easy-to-make beef skewers infused with the savory goodness of garlic, herbs, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 lemon, juiced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add beef cubes to the marinade and mix until coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated beef onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from heat and squeeze with lemon juice (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Lean Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep. This recipe uses lean beef and a variety of colorful vegetables to create a nutritious and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean beef (90% lean), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of 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 pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and cook the onion and garlic until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the bell pepper and broccoli; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Soup
Warm up with this comforting slow cooker soup that combines tender beef, creamy barley, and rich flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beef, beef broth, barley, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and thyme.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in any accumulated juices from the slow cooker.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (Low) or 4-6 hours (High)
Beef and Broccoli with Quinoa
This recipe combines the flavors of beef, broccoli, and quinoa to create a nutritious and satisfying meal. The quinoa adds a boost of protein and fiber, while the beef and broccoli provide a good source of iron and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the beef and broccoli mixture over cooked quinoa.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Beef Lettuce Wraps
These crispy lettuce wraps are packed with flavor, thanks to the spicy beef filling and crunchy toppings. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, they’re easy to customize to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp chili flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Toppings: sliced avocado, diced tomato, crispy bacon bits (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chili flakes, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the beef mixture onto a lettuce leaf, followed by your desired toppings (if using).
5. Fold the lettuce in half to enclose the filling.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stuffed Peppers
Add a flavorful twist to traditional stuffed peppers with this hearty recipe that combines tender beef, sautéed mushrooms, and crunchy bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
5. Stir in cooked rice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Healthy Beef Chili with Black Beans
This classic chili recipe gets a nutritious boost from the addition of black beans and lean beef, making it a satisfying and healthy option for a cold winter’s night. With its rich flavors and tender texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked black beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and water.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of beef and spinach, creating a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. When sweet potatoes are done, slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to make room for the beef mixture.
7. Stuff each sweet potato with the beef mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry with Brown Rice
This recipe is a classic combination of savory beef, tender asparagus, and nutty brown rice, all cooked to perfection in one pan. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed asparagus spears
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, oyster sauce (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add asparagus to pan and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return beef to pan and stir in with asparagus and onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked brown rice.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Beef and Zucchini Noodle Bolognese
This recipe combines the richness of beef and tomato sauce with the freshness of zucchini noodles, creating a light and satisfying twist on traditional bolognese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Beef and Kale Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A hearty salad that combines the earthy flavor of kale with tender beef, all tied together with a bright and citrusy lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strip loin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season beef with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
2. In a large bowl, massage kale leaves with your hands for about 2 minutes to help break down fibers and remove bitterness.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Add grilled beef, kale, and vinaigrette to the bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Cauliflower Rice Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious meal that combines tender beef, cauliflower “rice,” and savory seasonings, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Transfer beef to a plate and set aside. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cauliflower florets to the skillet and stir to combine with onion mixture. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Serve beef on top of cauliflower “rice” and garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Carrot Stew with Turmeric
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of flavors, with tender beef, sweet carrots, and the warmth of turmeric. This comforting dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add carrots; cook for 5 minutes, or until slightly tender.
5. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and browned beef; season with salt and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Quickly cook up a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry with tender beef and crisp cabbage. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon 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 the pan and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add the shredded cabbage to the pan and cook until it starts to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the beef strips to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the beef is coated with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Lentil Soup with Tomatoes
Hearty Beef and Lentil Soup with Tomatoes: A delicious and comforting meal perfect for a chilly evening!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Brussels Sprouts Skillet
A hearty one-pan meal that combines the flavors of tender beef, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and crispy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strip loin or ribeye, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil. Add the Brussels sprouts and potatoes, and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
4. Return the beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines tender beef with chickpeas, onions, and a blend of spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as chuck or round), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until beef is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Green Bean Stir-Fry
A classic combination of tender beef, crunchy green beans, and savory sauce – this stir-fry is a quick and satisfying meal for any occasion. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon 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 until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the green beans, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and stir to combine with the green bean mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Butternut Squash Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of tender beef, sweet butternut squash, and savory spices, all simmered together to create a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef; cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add squash, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to pot. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth to pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to pot; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, until meat is tender and squash is cooked through, about 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Beef and Avocado Salad with Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the savory flavors of grilled beef and creamy avocado with a tangy lime dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strip loin or flank steak
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Grill the beef strip loin or flank steak for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
2. Let the beef rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
3. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and sliced beef.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil to make the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fuel your fitness goals with these delicious and healthy beef recipes! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes is perfect for fitness enthusiasts looking to add lean protein to their diet. From grilled skewers to hearty stews, these recipes showcase the versatility of beef as a nutritious ingredient. Whether you’re in the mood for something quick and easy or a slow-cooked meal, there’s something on this list for everyone. Try out Grilled Garlic Herb Beef Skewers, Lean Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry, or Healthy Beef Chili with Black Beans – your taste buds (and body) will thank you!
