Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for health when it comes to dinner? Look no further! With lean ground beef as the base, these 20 delicious and healthy recipes will revolutionize your weeknight meal routine. From quick stir-fries to hearty casseroles, we’ve got a solution for every busy family’s needs. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of creative ways to use lean ground beef in a way that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration to cook with your partner, or need some meal prep ideas for the whole family, these recipes are sure to impress. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of healthy ground beef cooking!
Lean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir-Fry
A quick and healthy stir-fry recipe that combines lean ground beef with colorful vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the bell peppers, snow peas, onion, and garlic. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers. Tender beef and quinoa filling, packed with vegetables and spices, fills bell peppers for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, and tomatoes)
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add chopped onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
6. Stir in cooked quinoa and mix well.
7. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef-quinoa mixture.
8. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Low-Carb Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious low-carb skillet meal that combines ground beef and cauliflower rice.
Turkey and Beef Blended Meatballs with Hidden Veggies
These meatballs are a game-changer! By blending turkey and beef with finely chopped veggies, you’ll create a deliciously moist and flavorful treat that’s perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup grated zucchini
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, beef, onion, carrot, zucchini, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Healthy Beef and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty breakfast or brunch dish combines the flavors of tender beef, sweet potatoes, and crispy vegetables for a satisfying meal that’s packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, and olive oil to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are slightly tender.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Protein-Packed Beef and Lentil Soup
A hearty and nutritious soup that combines the flavors of beef, lentils, and vegetables for a protein-packed meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the lentils, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Beef Bolognese
This recipe combines the richness of beef bolognese with the healthiness and flavor of zucchini noodles. A quick and easy dinner option that’s perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 medium zucchinis
– Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)
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 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, red wine (if using), and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook zucchini noodles according to package instructions or by spiralizing fresh zucchinis.
5. Serve beef bolognese over zucchini noodles topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lightened-Up Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
A healthier twist on the classic Russian dish, this recipe reduces the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup low-fat sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces whole wheat fettuccine
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, mushrooms, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the sour cream and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve the beef mixture over the cooked fettuccine. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Korean Beef Bowl with Brown Rice
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with the nutritious goodness of brown rice and lean beef. A perfect one-dish meal that’s quick, easy, and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, cook the beef strips in 1 tbsp of oil until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger to the beef; stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
3. Serve the beef mixture over cooked brown rice and top with mixed vegetables.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms with the savory goodness of beef and spinach. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add chopped spinach and stir until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
4. Wipe mushroom caps clean and fill each with the beef and spinach mixture.
5. Place mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
7. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until melted.
Cooking Time: 17-23 minutes
Guilt-Free Beef and Black Bean Tacos
This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional tacos that’s not only delicious, but also packed with nutrients. By using lean beef and fiber-rich black beans, you’ll get a boost of protein and fiber in each bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the black beans and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the beef and bean mixture onto a tortilla and adding desired toppings.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Ground Beef and Roasted Veggie Medley
A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines ground beef with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, all cooked to perfection in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 small zucchini, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices (e.g. paprika, oregano)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Coconut Aminos
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on the classic beef and broccoli stir-fry, using coconut aminos as a low-sodium alternative to soy sauce. With just a few simple ingredients and 20 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a mouth-watering dish ready to enjoy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable 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. In the same pan, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli florets to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. Return the cooked beef strips to the pan and stir in the coconut aminos. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Healthy Greek-Style Beef Pita Wraps
Savor the flavors of Greece with this easy-to-make recipe, featuring tender beef, crispy vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce wrapped in a warm pita.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, and cucumber slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in feta cheese, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble wraps by spreading a layer of tzatziki sauce on each pita, followed by the beef mixture and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Greek-style beef pita wraps!
Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry with Ginger Garlic Sauce
This savory stir-fry combines tender beef, crisp cabbage, and a flavorful sauce infused with the warmth of ginger and garlic. A quick and easy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 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 skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add cabbage to the skillet and cook until slightly tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and honey. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lean Beef and Eggplant Lasagna Roll-Ups
A flavorful twist on classic lasagna, these roll-ups combine lean beef, tender eggplant, and rich tomato sauce for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Roll eggplant slices with a mixture of cooked beef, marinara sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Place seam-side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top roll-ups with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until eggplant is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beef and Chickpea Curry with Cauliflower Rice
This hearty curry combines tender beef, creamy chickpeas, and flavorful spices with a nutritious twist – cauliflower rice! A perfect blend of East meets West, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large pan, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onions, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add chickpeas, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Transfer mixture to a large bowl and set aside.
6. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until resembling rice.
7. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cauliflower “rice” and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
8. Combine cooked beef mixture with cauliflower “rice”; stir in coconut milk.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Healthy Sloppy Joe Lettuce Wraps
Looking for a healthier take on the classic sloppy joe? This recipe skips the traditional bun and adds some crunchy freshness with lettuce wraps. The result is a flavorful, protein-packed snack that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble the wraps by spooning the sloppy joe mixture onto a lettuce leaf and topping with shredded cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Kale Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines ground beef with sautéed kale and rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup chopped fresh kale
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, chopped kale, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Cut tops off bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Fill each pepper with beef mixture.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 30-35 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Low-Fat Beef and Tomato Basil Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring tender beef, sweet tomatoes, and the brightness of fresh basil. With only 3g of fat per serving, you can enjoy this comforting meal without worrying about your diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup low-fat chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground 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 the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these deliciously healthy ground beef recipes! From stir-fries and stroganoffs to soups and tacos, this collection has something for everyone. Try Lean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir-Fry, Healthy Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers, or Low-Carb Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet. Or, go bold with Turkey and Beef Blended Meatballs with Hidden Veggies or Zucchini Noodle Beef Bolognese. Whatever your taste buds crave, these 20 recipes will satisfy your appetite for a quick, easy, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
