Ground beef is a popular ingredient for many keto dieters. It’s cheap, easy to cook, and very versatile. You can use it in lots of different dishes to keep your meals interesting while sticking to your low-carb goals.
These 30 keto ground beef recipes will give you plenty of tasty options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. From simple skillet meals to hearty casseroles, you’ll find new ways to enjoy ground beef while keeping your carbs low. Try these recipes to add variety to your keto meal plan without spending hours in the kitchen.
1. Keto Beef Taco Skillet
This tasty dish combines the flavors of tacos with the ease of a one-pan meal. You’ll love how quick and simple it is to make.
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Cook ground beef until browned, then add taco seasoning for that classic Mexican taste.
Mix in low-carb veggies like bell peppers and onions. These add color and crunch without extra carbs. For extra kick, toss in some diced jalapenos.
Top your skillet with shredded cheese and let it melt. Serve with keto-friendly toppings like sour cream, avocado, or cilantro.
This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fast and filling. It’s sure to become a family favorite on your keto menu.
2. Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole
You’ll love this easy keto ground beef casserole. It’s packed with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes.
The dish combines beef, cheese, and veggies for a satisfying meal. You can use broccoli or tomatoes as your vegetable of choice.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s also great for meal prep if you like to plan ahead.
With only a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious low-carb dinner. The cheesy topping makes it extra tasty and kid-friendly too.
3. Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This quick and easy stir-fry combines ground beef and cabbage for a tasty keto meal. You can whip it up in about 20-30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The dish is low in carbs but high in flavor. It uses simple ingredients like ground beef, shredded cabbage, and a few spices. You can adjust the spice level to your liking.
This stir-fry is not only keto-friendly but also paleo and gluten-free. It’s a cost-effective meal that doesn’t skimp on taste or nutrition. You’ll get a good balance of protein from the beef and fiber from the cabbage.
4. Keto Cheeseburger Salad
Keto Cheeseburger Salad gives you all the flavors of a burger without the bun. You start by browning ground beef in a skillet with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
While the meat cooks, chop some romaine lettuce. Mix mayo, sugar-free ketchup, and dill relish to make a tasty sauce.
Once the beef is done, let it cool slightly. Then build your salad by layering lettuce, beef, cheese, and sauce. Add diced tomatoes and pickles if you like.
This easy meal is filling and satisfying. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner when you’re craving a burger but want to stay keto.
5. Spicy Beef Stuffed Peppers
These stuffed peppers pack a flavorful punch while keeping carbs low. Start by cutting bell peppers in half and removing the seeds.
Brown ground beef in a pan with spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic. Mix in some diced tomatoes and chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
Spoon the beef mixture into the pepper halves. Top with shredded cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
You can adjust the spice level to your liking. Add more jalapeños or even some hot sauce if you want it extra spicy. These make a satisfying keto-friendly meal that’s easy to prep ahead.
6. Ground Beef Zucchini Boats
Ground beef zucchini boats are a tasty keto-friendly meal. To make them, cut zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the centers.
Brown ground beef in a skillet and drain the grease. Add tomato paste, mustard, cream cheese, broth, and spices to the beef. Let it simmer until thickened.
Brush the zucchini halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet.
Fill the zucchini boats with the beef mixture. Top with cheese if desired. Bake at 350°F until the zucchini is tender and the filling is hot.
7. Beefy Cauliflower Rice
This keto-friendly dish combines ground beef with cauliflower rice for a tasty, low-carb meal. You’ll start by cooking the beef in a skillet with onions and garlic for flavor.
Season the meat with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Then add riced cauliflower and cook until tender. This creates a satisfying base for your casserole.
For extra creaminess, mix in some cottage cheese and sour cream. Top it off with shredded cheese and bake until bubbly. The result is a comforting, protein-packed dinner that fits your keto diet.
This versatile recipe works great for meal prep. You can easily customize it with your favorite low-carb veggies or spices.
8. Keto Beef Chili
Keto beef chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that fits perfectly into a low-carb diet. You’ll love this satisfying meal that’s easy to make and packed with protein.
Start by browning ground beef in a large pot. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic for extra flavor and nutrients.
Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano to taste. Let the chili simmer for about an hour to develop rich flavors.
For a slow cooker version, combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method allows the flavors to blend even more.
Serve your keto beef chili hot, topped with shredded cheese for added fat and flavor. Enjoy this comforting meal any time you crave a warm, filling dish.
9. Beef and Spinach Meatballs
Beef and spinach meatballs are a tasty keto-friendly dish. You can make them with ground beef, chopped spinach, eggs, and low-carb ingredients like almond flour or grated Parmesan cheese.
Mix the beef, spinach, and other ingredients in a bowl. Form small meatballs using about 1/8 cup of the mixture for each. You can bake them in the oven at 425°F for 18-20 minutes.
These meatballs are versatile and packed with protein. Serve them on their own or with a low-carb sauce. They’re great for meal prep too – make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
10. Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf
Bacon wrapped meatloaf is a tasty keto-friendly dish. It combines ground beef with savory bacon for a protein-packed meal.
To make it, mix ground beef with low-carb ingredients like almond flour and eggs. Shape the mixture into a loaf. Wrap bacon slices around the meatloaf, covering it completely.
Bake the meatloaf in a 400°F oven for about 45-50 minutes. The bacon will crisp up and add flavor to the beef. Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
You can add a sugar-free glaze for extra taste. This keto meatloaf is filling and perfect for dinner or leftovers.
11. Creamy Beef Stroganoff
Keto beef stroganoff is a comforting dish that’s easy to make. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ground beef is the star of this low-carb version. It’s packed with protein and fat, helping you stay in ketosis.
The creamy sauce combines sour cream and heavy cream. These ingredients give the stroganoff its signature rich flavor without adding carbs.
Mushrooms, onions, and garlic add depth to the dish. They’re low in carbs but high in taste.
You can serve this keto-friendly stroganoff over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. It’s a filling meal that will satisfy your comfort food cravings.
12. Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps
Ground beef lettuce wraps are a tasty keto-friendly meal option. They’re quick to make and full of flavor.
To prepare, cook ground beef in a skillet until browned. Add minced garlic and ginger for extra taste. Mix in some diced bell peppers and carrots for crunch and color.
Pour in a sauce made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens and coats the meat mixture.
Serve the beef in crisp butter lettuce leaves. Top with chopped green onions or water chestnuts if you like. These wraps are perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
13. Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
This tasty keto dish brings the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak to your dinner table. You’ll start by browning ground beef in a skillet. Add sliced bell peppers and onions for that authentic cheesesteak taste.
Mix in cream cheese and beef broth to create a rich, savory sauce. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with provolone cheese slices.
Bake the casserole at 350°F for about 15 minutes, until the cheese melts and turns golden. The result is a hearty, low-carb meal that satisfies your cheesesteak cravings without the bun.
14. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This tasty keto dish combines ground beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. Start by browning the beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
While the beef cooks, mix coconut aminos, sesame oil, apple cider vinegar, ginger, and broth for the sauce. Add the sauce to the cooked beef and bring to a boil.
Steam the broccoli separately until crisp-tender. Combine it with the beef and sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
For extra thickness, you can mix a small amount of xanthan gum with warm water and add it to the pan. Serve your beef and broccoli stir-fry hot for a quick, satisfying keto meal.
15. Keto Beef Enchiladas
Keto beef enchiladas are a tasty low-carb twist on a Mexican favorite. You’ll love this cheesy, savory dish that fits your keto diet.
Start by cooking ground beef with onions and taco seasoning. Drain any excess fat. For the tortillas, use melted cheese circles instead of traditional corn or flour wraps.
Fill each cheese “tortilla” with the seasoned beef mixture. Roll them up and place in a baking dish. Mix sour cream with enchilada sauce and pour over the rolls.
Top with more shredded cheese. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes. The result is a gooey, flavorful meal that satisfies your enchilada cravings without the carbs.
16. Cheeseburger Soup
Cheeseburger soup brings the flavors of a classic burger to a cozy keto-friendly bowl. Ground beef forms the base, paired with a rich, cheesy broth.
This soup is quick to make, often ready in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you want a hearty meal.
You can customize your soup with toppings like crispy bacon bits, diced tomatoes, or sliced pickles. Some recipes add cauliflower rice for extra texture.
The soup is naturally low in carbs and high in protein. It’s filling and satisfying without the need for potatoes or flour thickeners.
17. Beef Lasagna Skillet
You can enjoy the flavors of lasagna without the carbs in this easy skillet meal. Brown ground beef in a large pan, then add onions, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
Stir in low-carb tomato sauce and let it simmer. Top with dollops of ricotta cheese and shredded mozzarella. Cover and cook until the cheese melts.
This keto-friendly dish comes together in about 30 minutes. It has all the taste of traditional lasagna but only 5 net carbs per serving. You’ll love how quick and simple it is for busy weeknights.
18. Stuffed Mushrooms with Beef
Stuffed mushrooms with beef make a tasty keto-friendly appetizer or side dish. Clean and remove the stems from large mushrooms. Brown ground beef in a skillet, then mix with cream cheese, herbs, and spices.
Spoon the beef mixture into the mushroom caps. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top for extra flavor. Bake the stuffed mushrooms in a preheated oven until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese melts.
These savory bites are perfect for parties or as a quick snack. You can customize the filling with different cheeses or seasonings to suit your taste. Enjoy these low-carb treats guilt-free on your keto diet.
19. Beef and Eggplant Bake
This tasty dish combines ground beef and eggplant for a satisfying keto meal. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F.
Slice eggplants and cook them in a pan with olive oil until tender. In a separate skillet, brown ground beef with onions and garlic.
Layer the eggplant slices and beef mixture in a casserole dish. Top with a low-carb tomato sauce and sprinkle with cheese.
Bake for about 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
20. Keto Beef Kebabs
Keto beef kebabs are a tasty and easy low-carb meal option. To make them, start by cutting beef into cubes. Mix the meat with keto-friendly spices like garlic powder, cumin, and paprika.
Thread the seasoned beef onto skewers. You can add low-carb veggies like bell peppers or zucchini between the meat pieces for extra flavor and nutrition.
Grill the kebabs for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safe eating. Serve your keto beef kebabs with a side of cauliflower rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
21. Beef Taco Stuffed Avocados
Beef taco stuffed avocados are a tasty keto-friendly meal. You can make them easily with ground beef, taco seasoning, and ripe avocados.
Cook the ground beef in a pan. Add taco seasoning and tomato sauce for flavor. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens.
Cut avocados in half and remove the pits. Scoop out some of the flesh to make room for the beef filling.
Fill the avocado halves with the cooked taco meat. Top with cheese, diced tomatoes, and shredded lettuce.
You can add sour cream or cilantro if you like. These stuffed avocados are filling and packed with healthy fats.
22. Beef and Cauliflower Shepherd’s Pie
This keto-friendly twist on a classic dish swaps potatoes for cauliflower. You’ll love this comforting meal that keeps you in ketosis.
Start by browning ground beef with onions and garlic. Add herbs and spices for extra flavor. While the meat cooks, steam cauliflower until tender.
Mash the cauliflower with butter, cream cheese, and cheddar for a creamy topping. Spread the beef mixture in a baking dish and top with the cauliflower mash.
Bake the shepherd’s pie at 400°F until golden and bubbly. This hearty meal is perfect for cold nights and family dinners.
23. Keto Sloppy Joes
Keto Sloppy Joes are a tasty low-carb twist on the classic comfort food. You can make them in just 20 minutes using ground beef and a sugar-free sauce.
To start, brown the beef in a skillet. Add chopped onions and bell peppers if you like. Cook until the veggies are soft.
For the sauce, mix keto-friendly ketchup, mustard, vinegar, and spices. Pour it over the beef and let it simmer. The sauce will thicken as it cooks.
Serve your Keto Sloppy Joes on low-carb buns or lettuce wraps. They’re packed with flavor but won’t kick you out of ketosis.
24. Beef and Green Bean Stir-Fry
This quick and tasty dish combines ground beef with crisp green beans for a satisfying keto meal. Brown the beef in a skillet with garlic and onion for added flavor.
Add green beans and stir-fry for about 5 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. You can include other low-carb veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers too.
For extra crunch, toss in some water chestnuts. They add only 3 net carbs per serving. To keep carbs lower, simply reduce or skip them.
A simple sauce of coconut aminos, vinegar, and broth brings it all together. Serve hot for a filling dinner that’s ready in minutes.
25. Beef Quesadillas
Beef quesadillas are a tasty keto-friendly meal. You can make them easily with low-carb tortillas and seasoned ground beef.
Cook ground beef in a skillet with spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Drain any excess fat.
Spread the cooked beef on one half of a low-carb tortilla. Add cheese and fold the tortilla in half.
Cook the quesadilla in a pan or oven until the cheese melts and the tortilla turns golden brown. Cut into wedges and serve hot.
For extra flavor, try adding diced peppers or onions to your beef mixture. You can also top with avocado or sour cream.
26. Keto Meatballs with Marinara
Keto meatballs with marinara are a tasty low-carb meal option. You can make them using ground beef, pork, or a mix of both.
Add Italian herbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and almond flour to bind the mixture. Form small balls and bake or pan-fry them until cooked through.
For the sauce, use a low-carb marinara made with tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil. Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for extra flavor.
Serve your keto meatballs over zucchini noodles or with a side of roasted vegetables for a filling meal. This dish is perfect for meal prep and freezes well too.
27. Keto Beef Empanadas
Keto beef empanadas are a tasty low-carb twist on a classic Latin American dish. You can make them using a fathead dough or almond flour pastry to keep the carbs down.
Fill the empanadas with seasoned ground beef and veggies. Popular additions include onions, peppers, and spices like cumin and paprika.
These handheld pies are perfect for lunch or dinner. Each empanada typically has only 2-3 net carbs, making them a great keto-friendly option.
You can bake or fry the empanadas until golden brown. They freeze well too, so make extra for quick meals later.
28. Beef and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
Beef and spinach stuffed peppers are a tasty keto-friendly meal. They’re easy to make and need just a few ingredients.
Start by cutting bell peppers in half and removing the seeds. Brown ground beef in a pan, then mix in chopped spinach. You can add baby kale too for extra nutrients.
Fill the pepper halves with the meat and spinach mixture. Top with cheese like ricotta or mozzarella. Bake until the peppers are soft and the cheese is melted.
This dish is filling and low in carbs. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner when you’re following a keto diet.
29. Garlic Butter Beef Bites
Garlic butter beef bites are a tasty keto-friendly meal. You can make them in just a few minutes using simple ingredients.
Start by cutting beef into small cubes. Season the meat with salt, pepper, and any herbs you like.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add some butter and let it melt. Cook the beef cubes for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re browned.
Add minced garlic to the pan and cook for another 30 seconds. The garlic will become fragrant and coat the beef.
Serve your garlic butter beef bites hot. They’re perfect on their own or with low-carb vegetables for a complete keto meal.
30. Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry
This quick and tasty keto meal combines tender beef with crisp asparagus. You can whip it up in about 20 minutes using just one pan.
Slice beef thinly and cook it in a hot skillet with oil. Remove the meat and set it aside. In the same pan, stir-fry asparagus pieces until bright green.
Add garlic, ginger, and soy sauce for extra flavor. Mix the beef back in and cook everything together briefly. The result is a low-carb dish packed with protein and nutrients.
Serve your beef and asparagus stir-fry hot. It’s great on its own or over cauliflower rice for a complete keto-friendly meal.
Overview of Keto Diet
The keto diet is a high-fat, low-carb eating plan. It aims to change how your body uses energy. This diet can help with weight loss and may have other health benefits.
Benefits of Keto Diet
The keto diet can lead to quick weight loss. Your body burns fat for fuel instead of carbs. This may help you feel less hungry.
Some people report more energy on keto. It might also improve focus and mental clarity. The diet may lower blood sugar levels, which is good for diabetes control.
Keto might reduce inflammation in the body. This could help with conditions like arthritis. Some studies suggest it may lower the risk of heart disease.
How Keto Diet Works
On keto, you eat very few carbs. Your daily intake is usually less than 50 grams. This forces your body into a state called ketosis.
In ketosis, your body burns fat for energy. It makes substances called ketones to fuel your brain. Your liver turns fat into ketones when you don’t eat many carbs.
To follow keto, you eat lots of fats. This includes foods like avocados, nuts, and oils. You also eat moderate amounts of protein. Meat, fish, and eggs are good choices.
You must avoid most grains, sugar, and starchy foods. Fruit is limited too. It’s important to drink plenty of water on keto.
Ground Beef Nutrition
Ground beef is a nutrient-dense food that can fit well into a keto diet. It provides important macronutrients and health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced eating plan.
Macronutrients in Ground Beef
Ground beef is high in protein and fat, with zero carbs. A 4-ounce (113g) serving of 80% lean ground beef contains:
- Calories: 287
- Protein: 19g
- Fat: 23g
- Carbs: 0g
The fat content makes ground beef ideal for keto diets. You can adjust the fat level by choosing different lean-to-fat ratios like 70/30, 80/20, or 90/10.
Ground beef also provides key micronutrients:
- B vitamins (B12, B6, niacin)
- Iron
- Zinc
- Selenium
Health Benefits of Ground Beef
Eating ground beef as part of a keto diet can offer several health benefits:
Muscle growth and maintenance: The high-quality protein supports muscle health.
Improved iron levels: Beef is rich in heme iron, which your body absorbs easily.
Better brain function: B vitamins in beef help with brain health and energy production.
Stronger immune system: Zinc in beef boosts your immune defenses.
Satiety: The protein and fat content helps you feel full longer.
Remember to choose grass-fed beef when possible for higher omega-3 fatty acids. Pair ground beef with low-carb veggies for a balanced keto meal.