If you’re looking to enjoy the hearty, satisfying flavors of ground beef but want to keep things plant-based and nutritious, veggie ground beef recipes are your new best friend. These recipes combine the rich texture and protein power of plant-based ground beef alternatives with an array of vegetables and spices, delivering meals that are both delicious and wholesome.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian, vegan, or simply someone trying to reduce meat consumption, these recipes offer a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. From classic tacos and pasta sauces to innovative stir-fries and casseroles, veggie ground beef recipes bring versatility to your kitchen.
Plus, they’re often quicker to prepare and lighter on the environment than traditional meat dishes.
In this post, we’ll explore several tasty veggie ground beef recipes that you can easily make at home. You’ll find ingredient lists, step-by-step instructions, tips to customize your meals, and nutritional insights to help you make informed choices.
Ready to dive into these comforting and healthy recipes? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Veggie ground beef recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy the texture and protein of ground beef without the cholesterol and saturated fats that come with animal products. They’re:
- Rich in plant-based protein: Perfect for muscle building and sustained energy.
- Highly versatile: Can be used in tacos, pasta sauces, burgers, chili, and more.
- Environmentally friendly: Plant-based meals reduce your carbon footprint.
- Quick and easy to prepare: Ideal for busy weeknights or batch cooking.
- Loaded with veggies: Boosts your daily intake of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Plus, these recipes are perfect for all skill levels and can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) veggie ground beef (such as Beyond Meat, Impossible Burger, or homemade lentil-walnut mix)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or your preferred cooking oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped (optional, for extra umami)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for depth of flavor
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish
Equipment
- Large non-stick skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Can opener
- Mixing bowl (optional, for preparing homemade veggie ground beef)
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms. If you’re using a homemade veggie ground beef substitute, prepare it according to your recipe.
- Heat the oil: Place your skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to warm up for about 1 minute.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
- Add the bell pepper and mushrooms: Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring regularly until the vegetables are tender.
- Cook the veggie ground beef: Crumble the veggie ground beef into the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until browned and heated through.
- Season: Stir in the soy sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all flavors.
- Add tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes or tomato sauce. Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your dish and add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy as a filling for tacos, over rice, pasta, or in a wrap.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of liquid smoke when adding your spices.”
- Make it cheesier: Top with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy twist.
- Spice it up: Add fresh jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Mix in beans: Add black beans or kidney beans to increase fiber and protein.
- Try different veggies: Swap mushrooms for zucchini, or add corn and peas for sweetness and texture.
- Use different bases: Serve over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or in lettuce wraps for low-carb options.
- Batch cook: This recipe freezes well—make a big batch and save leftovers for busy days.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal | 14% |
| Protein | 22 g | 44% |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g | 4% |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g | 20% |
| Fat | 14 g | 22% |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g | 10% |
| Sodium | 450 mg | 19% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Serving Suggestions
This veggie ground beef mixture is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to enjoy it:
- Taco night: Serve in soft corn tortillas with avocado, salsa, and shredded lettuce.
- Pasta sauce: Mix with your favorite pasta and a sprinkle of vegan parmesan.
- Stuffed peppers: Fill halved bell peppers and bake until tender.
- Burgers: Form into patties and grill or pan-fry for delicious plant-based burgers.
- Rice bowls: Serve over brown rice or quinoa with steamed veggies and a drizzle of tahini.
More Veggie Ground Beef Recipes to Try
Veggie Ground Beef Chili
A warming, spicy chili packed with beans, tomatoes, and the rich flavor of veggie ground beef. Perfect for cozy evenings or meal prep.
- Ingredients: Veggie ground beef, kidney beans, black beans, canned tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika.
- Tip: Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes to deepen the flavors.
Veggie Ground Beef Stroganoff
A creamy, comforting dish made with veggie ground beef and mushrooms, served over egg-free pasta or mashed potatoes.
- Ingredients: Veggie ground beef, mushrooms, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, vegan sour cream, paprika, dijon mustard.
- Tip: Use coconut cream or cashew cream for a richer sauce.
Asian-Style Veggie Ground Beef Stir-Fry
Quick and flavorful stir-fry with veggie ground beef, snap peas, bell peppers, and a savory soy-ginger sauce.
- Ingredients: Veggie ground beef, snap peas, bell peppers, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions.
- Tip: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or noodles.
For more inspiration on vegetarian and vegan cooking, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion, explore Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals, or try making your own spice blends with the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.
Conclusion
Veggie ground beef recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy the familiar comfort of ground beef dishes while embracing a healthier, plant-based lifestyle. These recipes offer delicious and diverse options that are easy to prepare, full of nutrients, and adaptable to your personal taste preferences.
Whether you’re making tacos, chili, or a creamy stroganoff, veggie ground beef adds heartiness and protein without compromising on flavor or texture. By incorporating these recipes into your meal rotation, you’re not only treating yourself to tasty meals but also supporting a more sustainable and compassionate way of eating.
Don’t forget to explore our other delicious vegetarian and vegan recipes linked above to keep your meals exciting and wholesome. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Veggie Ground Beef Stir-Fry
Description: A delicious and healthy veggie ground beef stir-fry packed with colorful vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb veggie ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Add veggie ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in bell pepper, broccoli, carrot, and snap peas; cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Add soy sauce, grated ginger, and black pepper; stir well.
- Cook for another 3 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Remove from heat and garnish with green onions.
- Serve hot with rice or noodles.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 22 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 18 g
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