Are you looking for delicious and healthy beef recipes? Look no further! Beef doesn’t have to be high in calories or fat to be flavorful. In fact, there are many ways to prepare lean cuts of beef that will satisfy your cravings without compromising your diet goals.
In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering low-calorie beef recipes that you can easily make at home. From classic stir-fries and soups to grilled skewers and wraps, these recipes showcase the versatility of beef as a healthy protein option. Whether you’re a meat lover or just looking for new ideas to spice up your meal routine, we’ve got you covered.
In this collection, you’ll find recipes that are not only low in calories but also packed with nutrients, fiber, and flavor. So go ahead, indulge in these tasty beef dishes without the guilt!
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Grilled Beef and Vegetable Skewers
Elevate your outdoor cooking with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinade or sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread beef cubes, bell peppers, onion, garlic, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until beef reaches desired doneness.
5. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite herbs or sauce (if using).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stir-Fry
A flavorful and savory stir-fry that combines tender beef strips with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms, onion, and bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Low-Calorie Beef Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening, with only 340 calories per serving!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick and easy to make, this beef and broccoli stir-fry is a great option for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and ginger. Pour the mixture into the wok or skillet.
5. Add the cooked beef back into the pan and stir to combine with the sauce and broccoli.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the flavors are fully incorporated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Beef Lettuce Wraps
Savor the flavors of this Asian-inspired wrap, packed with juicy beef, crunchy lettuce, and a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 cups romaine lettuce leaves
– 4-6 large flour tortillas
– Sliced cucumber, carrots, and bell peppers (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and Gochujang. Cook in the skillet for 5-7 minutes, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Prepare lettuce leaves by washing and drying them.
4. Assemble wraps by placing cooked beef mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a handful of lettuce leaves, green onions, and any desired veggies.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional beef stir-fries, featuring sweet bell peppers and savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until peppers are tender.
4. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Zucchini Noodles
A classic combination of tender beef, crunchy zucchini, and flavorful noodles that’s quick to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 8 oz. noodle pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic to the same skillet; cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add sliced zucchini to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Return beef strips to the skillet; stir to combine with zucchini mixture.
6. Serve cooked noodles topped with beef and zucchini mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Soup
This comforting soup combines tender beef, crunchy cabbage, and aromatic spices to create a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onions and garlic; cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cabbage, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
This recipe brings together the flavors of tender beef, wilted spinach, and sweet bell peppers for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each pepper with the beef and spinach mixture, topping with grated cheddar cheese if using.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Tomato Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Beef and Tomato Salad combines the savory flavor of grilled beef with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill beef strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
2. Let beef rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes and chopped basil leaves (if using).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
5. Pour dressing over tomato mixture and toss to coat.
6. Add sliced beef to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry
This recipe combines tender beef strips with fresh asparagus and savory soy sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir-fry for another minute to combine with the asparagus mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Carrot Stew
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this beef and carrot stew is a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the onion, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
6. Return the beef to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Beef and Green Bean Stir-Fry
A classic combination of tender beef and crisp green beans, this stir-fry is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the green beans to the pan and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the beef strips to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over your favorite rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Cauliflower Rice Bowl
Elevate your mealtime with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines tender beef, crisp cauliflower “rice,” and savory seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add cauliflower florets and sprinkle with garlic powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve cooked beef over cauliflower “rice” and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Eggplant Stir-Fry
A flavorful and quick stir-fry recipe that combines the savory taste of beef with the tender goodness of eggplant.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the eggplant slices and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Kale Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender beef, nutritious kale, and aromatic spices. Simmered to perfection, it’s a delicious way to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in broth and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer for 1 hour.
4. Stir in kale, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until kale is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15-20 minutes
Beef and Cucumber Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of grilled beef, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill beef strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness. Let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and cooled beef.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour dressing over the beef and cucumber mixture; toss to coat.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines tender beef, crisp Brussels sprouts, and savory soy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the beef into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef and cook for 2-3 minutes, until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add the Brussels sprouts to the pan, and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften.
6. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Radish Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect combination of tender beef, crunchy radishes, and savory flavors. A simple yet satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 medium radishes, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the sliced radishes, beef broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Beef and Snow Pea Stir-Fry
A flavorful and quick stir-fry recipe that combines tender beef strips with crunchy snow peas, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups snow peas
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the snow peas to the skillet and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the beef strips to the skillet and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a healthier beef-filled diet with these 20 mouth-watering low-calorie recipes! From grilled skewers and stir-fries to soups and salads, we’ve got you covered. Our list includes Spicy Beef Lettuce Wraps, Beef and Mushroom Stir-Fry, Low-Calorie Beef Chili, and many more delicious options that are both nutritious and tasty. Whether you’re a beef lover or just looking for some healthy inspiration, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Start cooking your way to a healthier lifestyle today!
