When it comes to building muscle, protein is key. A diet rich in protein can help support muscle growth and repair, making it essential for any fitness enthusiast or athlete looking to take their physique to the next level. And what better way to get that protein than from a delicious piece of beef? In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering high-protein beef recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings while supporting your fitness goals.
From classic comfort foods like chili and lasagna to international-inspired dishes like Korean bulgogi and Mexican tacos, we’ve got you covered with a variety of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for quick and easy meals or something more substantial to fuel your workout routine, these high-protein beef recipes are sure to hit the spot.
So grab your apron and get ready to fire up the grill or heat up the skillet – it’s time to get cooking with these 20 delicious high-protein beef recipes for muscle growth!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Quinoa
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines tender steak bites, savory garlic butter, and nutty quinoa. This quick-cooking dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add steak bites and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a plate.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
5. Return steak bites to the skillet with garlic butter. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot over cooked quinoa, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Beef and Black Bean Stir-Fry
This spicy beef and black bean stir-fry is a flavorful and filling meal that can be ready in under 30 minutes. A perfect blend of sweet, sour, and spicy, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes; cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and water. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add black beans and stir-fry until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Protein-Packed Beef and Broccoli Bowl
This recipe is a nutritious and flavorful bowl that combines the protein-rich flavors of beef and chicken with the health benefits of broccoli. It’s perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup cooked brown rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, broccoli, and chicken breast to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
4. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over cooked brown rice (if using). Cooking time: 15-20 minutes.
Lean Beef Chili with Kidney Beans
This hearty and flavorful chili is a great option for those looking for a healthier take on the classic dish. Made with lean ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of spices, this recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Beef Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
Elevate your summer BBQs with this flavorful and refreshing Greek-inspired recipe. Marinated beef skewers pair perfectly with a tangy tzatziki sauce, perfect for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 wooden skewers
– Tzatziki sauce (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano. Add beef cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread marinated beef onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until beef reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Serve immediately with tzatziki sauce.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Egg Scramble with Avocado
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines the richness of beef with the creaminess of avocado and scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 4 large eggs
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Crack the eggs into the same skillet and scramble until cooked through, breaking up any large curds.
4. Return the beef to the skillet with the scrambled eggs and stir to combine.
5. Divide the mixture onto plates and top each with diced avocado.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
High-Protein Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
A hearty and flavorful dish that’s packed with protein-rich beef and mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (90% lean)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup low-fat sour cream
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz cooked egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef strips in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms, garlic, and onion; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mustard, and paprika. Add to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Lentil Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender beef and lentils with sautéed onions and spices, all nestled inside roasted bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the cooked lentils, chopped onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
5. Stuff each pepper with the beef-lentil mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Korean Beef Bulgogi with Brown Rice
This classic Korean dish combines tender beef, sweet and savory soy-based sauce, and flavorful spices to create a mouthwatering meal that pairs perfectly with fluffy brown rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup brown rice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Gochujang, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Add the sliced beef and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Add the beef to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Serve the beef atop brown rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with savory beef and spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
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 and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
6. Split sweet potatoes open and top with beef and spinach mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
High-Protein Beef Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles
Elevate your meal game with these protein-packed beef meatballs served atop a bed of zucchini noodles, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (90% lean)
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Optional: marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, oats, Parmesan cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, spiralize zucchinis into noodles and sauté with olive oil over medium heat until tender.
6. Serve meatballs atop zucchini noodles and enjoy! Optional: top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Chickpea Curry
This flavorful and aromatic curry recipe combines tender beef with the nutty goodness of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In the same pan, add onions and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and chickpeas. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return beef to the pan and cook until heated through, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri
This Argentine-inspired dish combines the bold flavors of grilled flank steak with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, garlic, oregano, and lemon juice to make the chimichurri sauce.
3. Season flank steak with salt and pepper.
4. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Let steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
6. Serve sliced steak with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup with Vegetables
A comforting and nutritious soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the rich flavors of beef, barley, and vegetables to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, celery, and onions)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat until cooked through. Remove from pot.
2. Add the mixed vegetables to the pot and cook until they begin to soften.
3. Add the barley, broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the barley is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
High-Protein Beef Tacos with Greek Yogurt Sauce
Elevate your taco game with this protein-packed recipe that combines tender beef, crunchy veggies, and a tangy Greek yogurt sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (90% lean)
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until the veggies are tender.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning beef mixture onto tortillas, then topping with Greek yogurt sauce (mix yogurt with lime juice).
6. Add desired toppings and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Edamame Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines savory beef, succulent edamame, and fluffy fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced beef (sirloin or ribeye), cooked and sliced
– 1 cup frozen edamame, thawed
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the cooked beef and stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the edamame and cooked rice to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Cottage Cheese Lasagna
This hearty lasagna combines tender beef with creamy cottage cheese, layered between sheets of pasta and melted mozzarella. A twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe adds a delightful tanginess from the cottage cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. Brown ground beef in a skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat and stir in chopped onion and minced garlic.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by noodles, cottage cheese mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious meal, this recipe combines the savory taste of beef with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all wrapped up in a crunchy bell pepper.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
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 the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked quinoa, corn kernels, and olive oil.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef-quinoa mixture and place them in a baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
High-Protein Beef Jerky Homemade Recipe
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make high-protein beef jerky recipe, perfect for fitness enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a protein-rich snack that’s both delicious and convenient.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef (top round or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry with Almonds
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines the savory taste of beef with the tender crunch of asparagus, all tied together with a sprinkle of toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups fresh asparagus spears
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the asparagus and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir in toasted almonds and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fuel your muscle growth with these delicious high protein beef recipes! From classic dishes like garlic butter steak bites and lean chili, to international-inspired options like Korean bulgogi and beef and lentil stuffed peppers, there’s something for everyone. With a focus on quality protein sources and nutritious ingredients, these recipes will help you build strength and satisfaction. Whether you’re a meat lover or just looking for some new ideas, this article has got you covered.
