Easy and Healthy Ground Beef Recipes

The Importance of Choosing Healthy Ground Beef

Most ground beef available in supermarkets is high in fat, cholesterol, and hormones. However, many stores now offer healthier, organic options. Using organic and low-sodium ingredients can make a significant difference in the nutritional value of your meals. If you have access to a Trader Joe's, consider shopping there for a variety of healthy organic meats and other quality products at great prices.

Recipe 1: Easy Salisbury Steak

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Montreal steak seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 small package of freshly sliced portobello mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef stock

Directions

1. Prepare the Patties: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, garlic, onion, steak seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into steak-shaped patties about 2 inches thick. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to help them hold together during cooking.
2. Cook the Patties: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4 minutes per side until browned and juices run clear. Remove and cover with foil to keep warm.
3. Cook the Mushrooms: Add the remaining olive oil and butter to the same pan. Cook the mushrooms over medium heat until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Make the Gravy: Add flour to the mushrooms, mix, and cook for about 2 minutes. Slowly add beef stock, stirring until the sauce thickens.
5. Serve: Pour the gravy over the steaks and serve.

Recipe 2: Italian-Style Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 2 eggs
• 1 (7-ounce) jar roasted red peppers, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cups prepared tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium sauté pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft. Set aside to cool.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled onions and garlic with the remaining ingredients, except the tomato sauce. Mix well and form into a loaf. Place on an oiled oven-safe tray and top with 1 cup of tomato sauce.
4. Bake: Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let sit for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with the remaining heated tomato sauce.

Recipe 3: Greek-Style Hamburgers

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped Greek olives
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Hamburger rolls or pita bread

Sauce Ingredients

• 1 (16-ounce) container low-fat plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1/2 cup peeled, seeded, and finely diced cucumber

Sauce Directions

1. Prepare Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil and lemon juice. Add yogurt and mix well. Stir in garlic, cucumber, parsley, and mint. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Burger Directions

1. Sauté Onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Cook chopped red onions until tender, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled onions, ground beef, feta cheese, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper. Form into patties.
3. Cook Burgers: Fry burgers in the same skillet or grill to desired doneness.
4. Serve: Spread prepared sauce on rolls or inside pita bread. Add burgers and enjoy!

Conclusion

These three healthy and easy ground beef recipes are perfect for any home cook. Remember to use organic ingredients whenever possible for the best nutritional benefits. Happy cooking!

Interesting Stats

• According to the USDA, organic meat sales have increased by 8% annually over the past decade USDA.
• A study by the American Heart Association found that lean ground beef can be part of a heart-healthy diet when consumed in moderation AHA.

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