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If you’re looking to get ahead in the kitchen and stay on track with your dietary or budget goals, these ground beef meal prep ideas are just what you need. Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic meatballs to spicy tacos. With these tips and recipes, you’ll be able to create delicious meals in no time.
I’ve been wanting to share these recipes with you for a while now because ground beef is my go-to ingredient for meal prep. Whether you call it ground beef or beef mince (as they do in Australia), it’s a reliable and affordable option for batch cooking and creating a variety of meals.
Ground beef is not only a great source of protein but also versatile and easy to batch cook and freeze for later use. It’s a budget-friendly ingredient that can help make meal prep easier and more enjoyable.
Ground Beef Nutrition
Ground beef is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Different types of ground beef have varying levels of fat content, so it’s important to choose leaner options if you’re watching your calorie and fat intake.
While lean ground beef is a healthier choice, the fat in regular ground beef adds flavor and moisture to dishes like meatballs and burgers.
Tips For Using Ground Beef In Meal Prep
- Choose ground beef that is at least 90% lean for lower calorie meals.
- Opt for grass-fed beef for a more nutritious and flavorful option.
- Cook a large batch of ground beef and freeze it in portions for convenience.
- Use spices and seasonings to add flavor to your meals.
- Add vegetables to increase the nutritional value and make the dish more filling.
- Drain excess fat after cooking to reduce calorie and fat intake.
Before diving into some inspiring ground beef meal prep ideas and recipes, here are some dishes that work well with ground beef and can be made ahead of time:
- Meatballs, patties, hamburgers, rissoles, meatloaf.
- Taco meat, savory mince, Bolognese sauce.
- Use in stuffing for peppers, cabbage rolls, etc.
- Make stews and curries with ground beef.
- Mix into casseroles with rice, pasta, or potatoes.
3 Meals With 1 Kilo Of Ground Beef
Learn how to prepare three delicious ground beef recipes in just 2 hours: Bolognese, Shepherd’s Pie, and Mexican Beef Rice Casserole. With just 1 kilo of ground beef and a few pantry staples, you can have three meals ready to go. Get the full recipe here.
Burgers, Garlic Kale & Sweet Potatoes
This nutrient-dense meal of homemade beef burger patties, garlic kale, and roasted sweet potatoes can be made ahead of time and stored in individual containers for 3-4 days. The patties can also be frozen for later use. Get the recipe here.
Healthy Korean Ground Beef With Vegetables
These easy beef bowls come together in less than 20 minutes! Packed with delicious Korean-inspired ground beef, fresh vegetables, and rice, this meal can be made ahead of time. The Korean beef can be frozen for future meals. From Slender Kitchen.
Ground Beef & Broccoli Skillet
This affordable beef and broccoli skillet is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or meal prep recipe. It’s paleo, low-carb, Whole30, and gluten-free, and can be customized with quinoa or rice for extra carbs. From Whole Kitchen Sink.
Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep
This quick and affordable ground beef version of the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich can be made in under 20 minutes. Customize it with cauliflower rice or steamed veggies for a low-carb option. The beef can be frozen and reheated as needed. From Meal Plan Addict.
Mini Meatloaf Muffins (Great For Freezer)
These meatloaf muffins are a fun twist on traditional meatloaf and are perfect for meal prep. Make a double batch and freeze some for later. They’re a hit with all ages! From Thriving Home Blog.
Beef Taco Skillet
This one-pan taco skillet is made with lean ground beef, rice, black beans, and Mexican-inspired ingredients. It’s a versatile dish that’s great for meal prep and can be customized to your liking. From Well Plated.
Thai Basil Beef Lemongrass Bowls
These colorful bowls are bursting with Thai flavors and can be made in no time. The beef and rice components can be made ahead of time and frozen for future meals. From Half Baked Harvest.
Sheet Pan Meatballs With Green Sauce & Salad
These juicy sheet pan meatballs are packed with flavor and can be made ahead of time. Serve them with a punchy green sauce and a simple salad for a satisfying meal. From Pinch Of Yum.
Five-Spice BBQ Meatballs
These Asian-style BBQ meatballs are quick to prepare and packed with lean protein. They’re perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly. From Cotter Crunch.
Ground Beef & Potatoes
This beef and potatoes skillet is a nutritious and flavorful dish that can be made ahead of time. It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both picky eaters and food enthusiasts. From Well Plated.
Hamburger Casserole
This classic pasta casserole is a family-friendly favorite that’s easy to make ahead of time. Cheesy noodles and ground beef come together in a creamy sauce for a comforting meal. From Well Plated.
Sweet Potato Chili Casserole
This sweet potato chili casserole is a flavorful twist on a classic dish. It’s packed with flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. Great for storing and freezing! From Dear Crissy.
Ground Beef Stroganoff
This creamy ground beef casserole is a family favorite that’s easy to make and still healthy. Serve it over pasta, rice, cauliflower rice, or veggies for a delicious meal. From Well Plated.
Ground Beef Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a great make-ahead meal that can be customized to your liking. Fill tortillas with seasoned ground beef, corn, bell peppers, and cheese, then freeze or refrigerate for later. From Chelsea’s Messy Apron.
Vegetable Beef Soup
This hearty vegetable beef soup is packed with flavor and perfect for making ahead of time. It only gets better as it sits, making it a great option for meal prep. From Chelsea’s Messy Apron.
Beef Picadillo
Beef picadillo is a flavorful Latin American dish made with ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables simmered in a seasoned tomato sauce. Serve it with rice, in tacos, or stuffed peppers for a versatile meal prep option. From Carlsbad Cravings.
Greek Meatballs (Keftedes)
These Greek meatballs are bursting with flavor and can be cooked on the stove or in the oven. Serve them with lemon rice, Greek salad, and tzatziki for a delicious meal. They can be refrigerated or frozen for later use. From Carlsbad Cravings.
These ground beef meal prep ideas and recipes are sure to inspire your next meal. Let me know in the comments if you have a favorite dish using ground beef mince!