Vegan Ground Beef Recipes That Are Easy and Delicious

If you’re craving the rich, savory taste of ground beef but want to keep things plant-based, you’re in the right place. Vegan ground beef alternatives have come a long way, offering delicious, protein-packed options that replicate the texture and flavor of traditional beef.

Whether you’re making tacos, pasta sauces, or hearty casseroles, these recipes are versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a meatless meal without sacrificing flavor.

In this post, we’ll explore several fantastic vegan ground beef recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen. From spicy Tex-Mex dishes to comforting Italian classics, you’ll find inspiration to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.

Plus, we’ll share tips on choosing the best plant-based “meat,” essential equipment for prep, and creative variations to keep your meals exciting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Plant-based ground beef recipes are fantastic because they deliver all the hearty satisfaction of traditional ground beef dishes without the environmental impact or animal welfare concerns. These recipes are highly adaptable to different cuisines and dietary needs, making them perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone wanting to reduce meat consumption.

You’ll love how quickly these recipes come together, often requiring just a handful of simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools. Plus, they are rich in fiber, vitamins, and plant protein, supporting a healthy lifestyle.

The texture and taste are so convincing that even meat-eaters will be impressed!

Ingredients

• 1 cup textured vegetable protein (TVP) or 14 oz vegan ground beef substitute
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil or any neutral cooking oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Colander (if using TVP that requires draining)

Instructions

1. Prepare the TVP (if using): Place the TVP in a large mixing bowl and pour the hot vegetable broth over it. Let it soak for 10 minutes until rehydrated and soft. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.
2. Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Add the vegan ground beef substitute: Stir in the rehydrated TVP or your chosen vegan ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until browned and slightly crispy around the edges.
4. Season the mixture: Add the soy sauce, tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the vegan “meat” evenly with the spices. Cook for another 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Adjust texture and flavor: If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of vegetable broth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For a richer umami flavor, add a splash of vegan Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of nutritional yeast.”

• Switch up your protein: Try lentils or finely chopped mushrooms as an alternative to TVP for a different texture and added nutrients.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a kick.
• Use in various dishes: This vegan ground beef mixture works wonderfully in tacos, spaghetti Bolognese, stuffed peppers, or sloppy joes.
• Batch cook: Prepare a large batch and freeze portions for quick meals during busy weeks.

Nutrition Facts

Note: These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Serving Suggestions

This vegan ground beef mixture is incredibly versatile. Serve it in warm tortillas with fresh salsa, avocado slices, and shredded lettuce for a quick taco night.

You can also toss it with cooked pasta and a vegan tomato sauce for a satisfying spaghetti Bolognese.

For a hearty meal, stuff it into bell peppers and bake until tender, or layer it in a vegan shepherd’s pie topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced, nutritious dinner.

Looking for more vegan inspiration? Check out our Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners or try the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to elevate your plant-based meals.

More Delicious Vegan Ground Beef Recipes

Vegan Taco Meat

This simple taco meat recipe uses TVP, smoky spices, and a hint of lime juice to create a zesty filling perfect for tacos, burritos, or nachos.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup TVP
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rehydrate TVP in hot vegetable broth for 10 minutes, then drain.
2. Heat oil in a skillet, add TVP, and cook until slightly browned.
3. Stir in spices, soy sauce, and lime juice. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
4. Adjust seasoning and serve in tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Vegan Sloppy Joes

Enjoy a messy, delicious sandwich with this vegan sloppy joe recipe, using plant-based ground beef and a tangy tomato sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 package vegan ground beef (about 14 oz)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a skillet, sauté onion until translucent.
2. Add vegan ground beef and cook until browned.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, maple syrup, vinegar, and spices.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes, then serve on vegan hamburger buns.

Vegan Bolognese Sauce

A classic Italian favorite made plant-based using lentils and vegan ground beef for a rich, savory pasta sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 cup vegan ground beef substitute
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pan, sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until soft.
2. Add vegan ground beef and cooked lentils, cooking 5 minutes.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer on low for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve over your favorite pasta.

For more plant-based pasta ideas, explore our Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners.

Conclusion

Vegan ground beef recipes offer a wonderful way to enjoy hearty, flavorful meals while embracing a plant-based lifestyle. Whether you use textured vegetable protein, lentils, or a commercial vegan ground beef substitute, these recipes bring texture, depth, and satisfying taste to your table.

They are quick to prepare, customizable to your spice preferences, and perfect for family meals or entertaining guests.

By incorporating these recipes into your routine, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint, improve your health, and discover exciting new flavors. Ready to expand your plant-based cooking repertoire?

Don’t forget to check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for more effortless vegan meals.

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