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Ground Beef Healthy Recipes That Make Nutritious Meals Delicious

Ground Beef Healthy Recipes That Make Nutritious Meals Delicious - Featured Image

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Learn how to make delicious ground beef healthy. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean or higher for less fat)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, no salt added)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth or water
  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
  • 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (optional, for added fiber and texture)

If you want to swap out any ingredients, feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or swap bell peppers for zucchini or mushrooms for extra veggies. The key is fresh, whole ingredients that keep the dish bright and balanced — just like Mama Lu always insisted on.

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step always reminds me of sitting on Mama Lu’s porch, peeling peas and listening to her gentle voice as she cooked.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Don’t rush this part — garlic brings warmth and depth, just like the stories Mama Lu would share in the kitchen’s quiet moments.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the lean ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon, stirring occasionally. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes.
  4. Drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary. Using lean beef usually means less grease, but if you see any pooling, gently pour it off to keep things lighter.
  5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth or water to keep everything moist and flavorful.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow melding of flavors feels like the slow Sunday afternoons I remember at home, where time seemed to pause and all that mattered was the food and the company.
  7. If you’re adding cooked quinoa or brown rice, stir it in now to warm through. This adds a nice texture and extra fiber, making the meal even more filling and balanced.
  8. Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley or cilantro on top, just before serving. A bright, fresh touch makes all the difference — just like Mama Lu’s final sprinkle of love on every dish.