Healthy Ground Beef Recipes: Tasty and Nutritious Meals for Every Occasion
When it comes to dinner, healthy ground beef recipes are a versatile choice that can satisfy a wide variety of tastes.
Ground beef is a go-to protein for many meals, but it’s important to cook it in a way that maintains flavor while also keeping things nutritious. Whether you’re craving a hearty meatloaf, a comforting casserole, or a flavorful crockpot dish, there’s a healthy ground beef recipe for you.
In this article, we will explore some delicious, healthy ground beef recipes that are easy to make, full of flavor, and packed with nutrients.
Healthy Meatloaf Recipe: A Classic with a Healthy Twist
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food, but you can make it much healthier by using lean ground beef and adding a variety of vegetables and spices. Here’s a recipe for a healthy meatloaf that’s perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use whole wheat for added fiber)
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
– 1/4 cup low-sodium tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
5. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 30g
– Carbs: 15g
– Fat: 10g
Healthy Casserole Recipes (Using Ground Beef)
Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, and using lean ground beef in your casserole recipes can make them both filling and healthy. Here are three healthy casserole recipes that use ground beef.
1. Healthy Beef and Veggie Casserole
A tasty casserole loaded with vegetables, lean ground beef, and a savory tomato sauce, making it a nutritious and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (no salt added)
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and zucchini to the pan, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, oregano, and cooked quinoa or rice. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and top with mozzarella cheese if using.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 30g
– Carbs: 30g
– Fat: 15g
2. Healthy Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Casserole
This casserole uses nutrient-rich sweet potatoes, combined with lean ground beef and a variety of spices for a hearty and healthy dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pan, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the diced sweet potatoes, onion, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the sweet potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and bake for 15-20 minutes until everything is hot and slightly golden.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbs: 40g
– Fat: 12g
3. Healthy Ground Beef and Cauliflower Casserole
A low-carb, high-protein casserole that’s packed with cauliflower and ground beef, making it a filling and healthy option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (no salt added)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
3. While the cauliflower is cooking, cook the ground beef and onion in a large pan over medium heat until browned.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, garlic powder, and thyme to the pan and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Mash the steamed cauliflower and combine with the ground beef mixture.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
– Calories: 300
– Protein: 28g
– Carbs: 15g
– Fat: 16g
Healthy Crockpot Recipes (Using Ground Beef)
Crockpot meals are perfect for busy days when you want a healthy dinner without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Here are three healthy crockpot recipes using ground beef.
1. Healthy Ground Beef Chili (Crockpot)
A hearty, flavorful chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in. The slow cooker does all the work, and the result is a filling and healthy dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes (no salt added)
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot, then add the beans, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir well, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve with toppings like avocado, cilantro, or Greek yogurt.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
– Calories: 300
– Protein: 25g
– Carbs: 35g
– Fat: 8g
2. Crockpot Ground Beef and Vegetable Stew
A nutrient-packed stew with ground beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 3 carrots, chopped
– 2 potatoes, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
– 1 teaspoon thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the beef and onion mixture to the crockpot, along with the carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir everything together and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 28g
– Carbs: 40g
– Fat: 10g
3. Healthy Ground Beef Stroganoff (Crockpot)
A lightened-up version of beef stroganoff, made easy in the crockpot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet, then transfer to the crockpot.
2. Add the mushrooms, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder to the crockpot.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
4. Stir in Greek yogurt and flour (if
using) before serving to thicken the sauce.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
– Calories: 300
– Protein: 25g
– Carbs: 20g
– Fat: 12g
Healthy Lasagna Recipes
Lasagna can be a healthy and comforting meal with the right ingredients. Here are two healthy lasagna recipes using ground beef, one of which is a lighter, lower-calorie version.
1. Classic Healthy Ground Beef Lasagna
A classic lasagna with lean ground beef, whole wheat noodles, and plenty of veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 9 whole wheat lasagna noodles
– 1 jar marinara sauce (low-sodium)
– 2 cups ricotta cheese (part-skim)
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (part-skim)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 zucchini, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions.
3. Brown the ground beef with the onion, zucchini, and bell pepper in a skillet.
4. In a baking dish, layer the lasagna by starting with a bit of marinara sauce, followed by noodles, meat mixture, ricotta, and mozzarella. Repeat layers.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
– Calories: 400
– Protein: 30g
– Carbs: 35g
– Fat: 15g
2. Lower-Calorie Ground Beef Lasagna
Tasty version that reduces the calorie count by using low-fat cheese and adding extra vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 9 whole wheat lasagna noodles
– 1 jar low-sodium marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese (low-fat)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (low-fat)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 zucchini, chopped
– 1 cup spinach, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles as directed on the package.
3. Brown the ground beef with the onion, zucchini, and spinach.
4. In a baking dish, layer the lasagna with sauce, noodles, meat mixture, and cheese. Repeat layers.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
– Calories: 300
– Protein: 28g
– Carbs: 30g
– Fat: 10g
Other Healthy Recipes with Ground Beef
Ground beef can be used in many more healthy recipes. Here are five additional ideas:
1. Healthy Ground Beef Tacos
A simple, quick meal with lean ground beef, fresh toppings, and whole-grain tortillas. These tacos are flavorful and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning (or use homemade seasoning: 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder)
– 1/2 cup water
– 8 small whole-grain tortillas
– 1 cup shredded lettuce
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1/2 cup shredded low-fat cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup salsa (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic and ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Brown the beef for 5–7 minutes.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Let simmer for 3–5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
4. Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds.
5. Spoon the beef mixture into each tortilla and top with lettuce, tomato, cheese, salsa, and cilantro.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information (per taco, assuming 8 tacos):
– Calories: 200
– Protein: 18g
– Carbs: 18g
– Fat: 8g
2. Healthy Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Stir-fry lean ground beef with broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots for a colorful, healthy dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 carrots, julienned
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Add sliced onion, bell pepper, carrots, and broccoli to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ginger. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
4. Serve with sesame seeds on top if desired. Enjoy with brown rice or noodles!
Nutrition Information (per serving, makes 4 servings):
– Calories: 300
– Protein: 30g
– Carbs: 20g
– Fat: 15g
3. Beef and Broccoli (Healthy Stir-Fry)
This classic stir-fry is healthy and uses lean ground beef paired with fresh broccoli and a low-sodium soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon ginger powder
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Remove the beef and set it aside. In the same pan, add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add broccoli to the pan and stir-fry for 5 minutes until tender but still crisp.
4. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Add the cooked beef back to the pan and mix well.
5. Drizzle sesame oil over the top and serve hot.
Nutrition Information (per serving, makes 4 servings):
– Calories: 280
– Protein: 30g
– Carbs: 15g
– Fat: 16g
4. Healthy Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
Hollow out bell peppers and stuff them with lean ground beef, quinoa, and tomatoes for a nutritious and hearty dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 4 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
– 1/2 cup quinoa, cooked
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned, no salt added)
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the ground beef mixture and place them in a baking dish.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese if using.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the cheese.
7. Serve hot.
Nutrition Information (per stuffed pepper):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 30g
– Carbs: 30g
– Fat: 15g
5. Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet
A one-pan meal with ground beef, spinach, garlic, and your favorite herbs and spices. Quick, healthy, and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups fresh spinach
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in spinach, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Top with Parmesan cheese before serving if desired.
Nutrition Information (per serving, makes 4 servings):
– Calories: 280
– Protein: 30g
– Carbs: 5g
– Fat: 15g
Healthy ground beef recipes are versatile and delicious, offering a variety of options for all your meal needs. Whether you’re making a comforting casserole or a simple stir-fry, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy healthy ground beef recipes.
You may also like the Carnivore Diet.