Healthy Ground Beef Recipe
A quick and easy lean ground beef dish packed with flavor, protein, and nutritious vegetables. Perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, and a variety of serving options.
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Frying Pan For browning beef and sautéing veggies
- Wooden spoon or spatula To break up beef while cooking
- Cutting board For chopping vegetables
- Knife For mincing and chopping ingredients
- Measuring Spoons For precise seasoning
- Measuring cups For measuring liquids and dry ingredients
- Mixing Bowl For prepping ingredients
- Airtight Containers If storing leftovers or meal prepping
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef 90% lean or higher
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium bell pepper diced
- 1 cup baby spinach chopped
- ½ cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
Seasonings & Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tsp olive oil for cooking
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp oregano
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup low-sodium tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
Optional Additions & Customizations:
- Chili flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat
- Grated zucchini or carrots for extra fiber
- Ground turkey or plant-based crumbles as a beef alternative
- Greek yogurt for topping, a protein-rich sour cream substitute
Instructions
Prep Your Ingredients
- Chop the onion, bell pepper, and spinach into small, even pieces.
- Mince the garlic for an even flavor distribution.
- Measure out the seasonings and sauces to have them ready.
Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes, until it softens.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the Ground Beef
- Add the lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
- Drain excess grease, but leave a small amount for flavor.
Add the Vegetables & Seasonings
- Stir in the diced bell pepper and mix well.
- Sprinkle in smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper, stirring to evenly coat the beef.
- Pour in the low-sodium tomato sauce and soy sauce or coconut aminos, stirring to blend the flavors.
Simmer for Flavor
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt for 1–2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve & Enjoy
- Spoon the beef mixture over quinoa, brown rice, or inside lettuce wraps for a nutritious meal.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, avocado slices, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added flavor.
🔥 Pro Tip:
- For a slightly crispy texture, spread the cooked beef mixture on a baking sheet and broil for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Video
Notes
✔ Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
✔ Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or broth for the best texture.
✔ Serving Suggestions: Pair with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
✔ Customization: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based alternatives for a different flavor.
✔ Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or broth for the best texture.
✔ Serving Suggestions: Pair with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
✔ Customization: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based alternatives for a different flavor.