Healthy Ground Beef and Vegetable Recipes for Every Meal

Ground beef combined with a colorful array of vegetables is a classic, hearty meal that can be both delicious and nutritious. However, many traditional recipes often lean towards heavy sauces and excessive fats, which can make them less healthy.

The good news is, you can enjoy ground beef dishes that are packed with flavor and nutrients without compromising on health. Incorporating fresh vegetables not only adds vibrant colors and textures but also boosts the fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants in your meal.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, these healthy ground beef and vegetable recipes offer balanced nutrition, are easy to prepare, and perfect for anyone looking to maintain a wholesome diet.

In this post, we’ll explore multiple recipes that pair lean ground beef with a variety of vegetables, focusing on simple ingredients and cooking techniques that enhance natural flavors while keeping calories in check.

Plus, you’ll find helpful tips, nutrition facts, and serving suggestions to elevate your meals. Ready to cook something tasty and nourishing?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These healthy ground beef and vegetable recipes are perfect for anyone who wants:

• Balanced nutrition: Combining protein-rich ground beef with fiber-packed veggies helps keep you full and energized.
• Easy preparation: Many of these recipes can be made in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatility: Swap vegetables or spices according to your preference or what’s in season, without losing flavor or health benefits.
• Family-friendly meals: These dishes appeal to both kids and adults, providing a delicious way to increase veggie intake.

Plus, cooking with lean ground beef helps keep saturated fat lower, and the inclusion of diverse vegetables adds antioxidants and essential micronutrients. These recipes strike the perfect balance of comfort and health.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup zucchini, diced
• 1 cup carrots, shredded or finely chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, no salt added
• 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener
• Mixing bowl (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Stir in the diced bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
5. Add the canned diced tomatoes and beef broth to the pan. Stir in the oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook uncovered for a few extra minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

“Using lean ground beef and a variety of vegetables keeps this dish nutritious and satisfying.”

• Swap vegetables: Feel free to add chopped spinach, kale, or green beans for extra greens.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or try a homemade chili powder blend like in this Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend for a smoky kick.
• Make it a bowl: Serve over brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a wholesome meal.
• Meal prep friendly: This recipe stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes well for longer storage.
• Lower sodium: Use no-salt-added canned tomatoes and low-sodium broth to control salt intake.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This hearty ground beef and vegetable dish pairs well with a variety of sides to round out your meal:

• Steamed brown rice or quinoa for a fiber-rich base.
• Whole wheat pita bread or warm tortillas for a Mediterranean twist.
• A crisp side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for freshness.
• Roasted sweet potatoes or baked potatoes for added comfort.

For a lighter option, serve over a bed of steamed greens or spiralized zucchini noodles.

Healthy Ground Beef and Vegetable Recipes List

Ground Beef and Veggie Stir-Fry

• Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef, 1 cup broccoli florets, 1 cup snap peas, 1 red bell pepper sliced, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon grated ginger.
• Instructions: Heat oil in a skillet, sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Toss in vegetables and soy sauce, stir-fry until crisp-tender. Serve hot.

Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers, 1 lb lean ground beef, 1 cup cooked brown rice, 1/2 cup diced onions, 1 cup chopped tomatoes, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt and pepper to taste.
• Instructions: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut tops off peppers and remove seeds. Brown beef with onions and spices, mix with rice and tomatoes. Stuff peppers and bake covered for 30-35 minutes until tender.

Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet

• Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef, 4 cups riced cauliflower, 1 cup diced tomatoes, 1 small onion diced, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt and pepper.
• Instructions: Brown beef with onion and garlic. Add tomatoes and spices. Stir in cauliflower rice and cook 5-7 minutes until tender. Serve warm.

Spicy Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup

• Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef, 1 cup diced carrots, 1 cup diced celery, 1 cup diced tomatoes, 4 cups low-sodium beef broth, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt and pepper.
• Instructions: Brown beef in large pot. Add vegetables and spices, sauté 5 minutes. Pour in broth and tomatoes, simmer 20 minutes. Adjust seasoning and serve.

For more creative and healthy meal ideas, check out A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals. If you love blending spices, don’t miss the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend for inspiration.

Conclusion

Healthy ground beef and vegetable recipes provide a satisfying way to enjoy classic comfort foods without sacrificing nutrition. By choosing lean cuts of beef and pairing them with a variety of fresh vegetables, you create meals that are rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.

These dishes are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy lifestyles or meal prepping. With simple ingredient swaps and seasonings, you can customize each recipe to your taste and dietary needs.

We hope these recipes inspire you to cook more wholesome meals that your whole family will enjoy. For more wholesome and tasty recipe ideas, explore our collection of vegetarian and vegan recipes that complement a balanced diet beautifully.

Happy cooking!

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