30 Clean Eating High-Protein Hamburger Meat Recipes
This collection of 30 recipes is designed for those who are committed to a clean eating lifestyle and also want to ensure they are getting an adequate amount of protein in their diet. Clean eating is all about consuming whole, unprocessed foods, and these recipes are built on that principle. We’ve combined lean, high-quality ground beef with an abundance of fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and whole grains to create meals that are both nutritious and delicious.
Each recipe is free from refined sugars, processed ingredients, and unhealthy fats. We’ve also focused on maximizing the protein content of each dish to help you build and maintain muscle, stay full and satisfied, and reach your health and fitness goals. Whether you’re following a specific diet plan or simply want to eat cleaner and healthier, these recipes will provide you with plenty of inspiration.
Clean & Lean Skillet Meals
1. Sweet Potato and Beef Skillet
This simple and satisfying skillet meal is packed with nutrients from the sweet potatoes and protein from the lean ground beef. It’s a perfect one-pan dinner for a busy weeknight.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (93/7)
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sweet potato and cook for 10-12 minutes, until tender.
- Add the onion and bell pepper and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the garlic and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute more.
2. Beef and Kale Skillet with Coconut Aminos
This flavorful skillet is a great way to get your greens in. The coconut aminos provide a delicious, soy-free alternative to soy sauce.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Instructions:
- Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet. Brown the ground beef with the onion. Drain excess fat.
- Add the kale and coconut aminos. Cook and stir until the kale is wilted.
3. Zucchini and Beef Skillet with Turmeric
This light and healthy skillet is packed with flavor from the turmeric and other spices. Zucchini is a great low-carb vegetable that pairs perfectly with ground beef.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cumin
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef with the onion in a large skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Add the zucchini, turmeric, and cumin. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
4. Beef and Brussels Sprouts Skillet
Brussels sprouts are a nutrient-dense vegetable that becomes sweet and tender when cooked. This skillet is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy them.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef with the onion in a large skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Stir in the balsamic vinegar and cook for another minute.
5. Cauliflower and Beef Fried Rice
A low-carb and clean eating version of fried rice. The cauliflower rice is a great substitute for regular rice, and it’s packed with nutrients.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 head of cauliflower, riced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet or wok. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Add the cauliflower rice and peas and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes.
- Push the vegetables to one side and pour the beaten eggs onto the other side. Scramble the eggs.
- Add the cooked ground beef back to the skillet. Stir everything together.
- Pour the coconut aminos over the
fried rice and stir to combine.
Clean & Wholesome Soups and Stews
6. Beef and Vegetable Soup
A simple and classic soup that’s packed with vegetables and protein. It’s a perfect clean eating meal for a cold day.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, no salt added
- 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup green beans
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef with the onion, carrots, and celery in a large pot. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes.
- Stir in the green beans and cook for another 10 minutes.
7. Clean Eating Chili
This chili is made with all-natural ingredients and is free from any processed additives. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a crowd.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, no salt added
- 2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef with the onion in a large pot. Drain excess fat.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, and cumin. Stir to combine.
- Simmer for at least 45 minutes.
8. Beef and Butternut Squash Stew
Butternut squash adds a natural sweetness and a boost of vitamins to this hearty stew. It’s a perfect clean eating comfort food.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef with the onion in a large pot. Drain excess fat.
- Add the butternut squash, beef broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
9. Detox Beef and Cabbage Soup
This light and cleansing soup is packed with vegetables and protein. It’s a great way to reset your system and enjoy a healthy meal.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 6 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef with the onion and carrots in a large pot. Drain excess fat.
- Add the cabbage and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
10. Beef and Mushroom Soup with Bone Broth
This soup is made with nutrient-dense bone broth, which is great for gut health. The mushrooms add a delicious earthy flavor.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups beef bone broth
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef with the mushrooms and onion in a large pot. Drain excess fat.
- Add the beef bone broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Clean & Simple Bakes
11. Spaghetti Squash Casserole
This low-carb and clean eating casserole uses spaghetti squash as a healthy alternative to pasta. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a family dinner.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce, no sugar added
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until tender.
- While the squash is baking, brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce.
- Use a fork to shred the spaghetti squash into strands. In a baking dish, combine the spaghetti squash with the beef and marinara sauce.
- Top with mozzarella cheese, if desired. Bake for 15-20 minutes.
12. Clean Eating Stuffed Peppers
These stuffed peppers are filled with a wholesome mixture of ground beef, quinoa, and vegetables. They are a complete and satisfying meal.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, no salt added
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- Brown the ground beef with the onion in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked quinoa, and diced tomatoes.
- Stuff the bell peppers with the beef and quinoa mixture. Place in a baking dish with a small amount of water in the bottom.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes.
13. Beef and Veggie Meatloaf
This meatloaf is packed with hidden vegetables, making it a great way to get your kids to eat their veggies. It’s a healthy and flavorful twist on the classic.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 1 cup grated carrot
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients. Mix well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan.
- Bake for 1 hour, or until cooked through.
14. Eggplant and Beef Casserole
This casserole is similar to a lasagna, but it uses slices of eggplant instead of pasta. It’s a low-carb and clean eating meal that’s packed with flavor.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 2 medium eggplants, thinly sliced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce, no sugar added
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
- In a baking dish, layer the eggplant slices, marinara sauce, and ground beef. Repeat the layers.
- Top with mozzarella cheese, if desired.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the cheese is bubbly.
15. Beef and Broccoli Casserole
This simple and delicious casserole is a complete meal in one dish. It’s a great way to enjoy the classic flavor combination of beef and broccoli in a new way.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown the ground beef with the onion in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
- In a baking dish, combine the ground beef, broccoli, and coconut aminos.
- Top with cheddar cheese, if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Clean & Lean Burgers and Meatballs
16. Clean Eating Beef Burgers
These burgers are simple, clean, and delicious. Serve them on a lettuce wrap or with a side of roasted sweet potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (93/7)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For serving: lettuce wraps, sliced tomatoes, onions, and avocado
Instructions:
- In a bowl, gently combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Form into 4 patties.
- Grill or pan-fry the patties to your desired doneness.
- Serve in lettuce wraps with your favorite clean toppings.
17. Avocado-Stuffed Burgers
A fun and delicious twist on the classic burger. The creamy avocado center is a delightful surprise.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 avocado, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a thin patty.
- Place a spoonful of diced avocado in the center of 4 of the patties. Top with the remaining 4 patties and pinch the edges to seal the avocado inside.
- Grill or pan-fry the stuffed burgers for 6-8 minutes per side.
18. Baked Beef and Veggie Meatballs
These meatballs are packed with hidden vegetables and are baked instead of fried for a healthier option. They are perfect for meal prep.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 cup finely grated zucchini
- 1/2 cup finely grated carrot
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients. Mix gently.
- Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
19. Beef and Spinach Meatballs
These meatballs are a great way to sneak in some extra greens. They are delicious on their own or served with zucchini noodles and marinara sauce.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine all the ingredients. Form into meatballs.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes.
20. Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Burgers
These burgers are bursting with Mediterranean flavor. The sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil add a delicious and sophisticated twist.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
- In a bowl, gently combine all the ingredients. Form into 4 patties.
- Grill or pan-fry the patties to your desired doneness.
More Clean & High-Protein Ideas
21. Beef-Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa
A complete and balanced meal in a neat little package. The quinoa adds extra protein and fiber.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, no salt added
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Combine the ground beef, cooked quinoa, and diced tomatoes. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes.
22. Clean Eating Taco Salad
All the flavors of a taco in a healthy and refreshing salad. This is a perfect meal for a light lunch or dinner.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 packet of clean taco seasoning (or make your own with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder)
- 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- Salsa for dressing
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning.
- In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado.
- Top the salad with the cooked taco meat and drizzle with salsa.
23. Beef and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and satisfying hash that is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Top it with a fried egg for extra protein.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 eggs (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the sweet potatoes in a large skillet until tender.
- Add the onion and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
- If desired, make wells in the hash and crack an egg into each one. Cook until the eggs are set.
24. Beef and Zucchini Boats
Zucchini boats are a fun and healthy way to enjoy a stuffed vegetable. They are low-carb and packed with protein.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 large zucchinis
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce, no sugar added
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the center.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce.
- Fill the zucchini boats with the beef mixture. Sprinkle with nutritional yeast, if using.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes.
25. One-Pan Beef and Asparagus
A simple and elegant one-pan meal. The asparagus becomes tender and flavorful as it cooks with the beef.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Add the asparagus and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
- Squeeze the juice from the lemon slices over the dish before serving.
26. Clean Eating Beef Kofta
These Middle Eastern-inspired meatballs are packed with fresh herbs and spices. They are delicious served with a side of cucumber and tomato salad.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp coriander
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine all the ingredients. Form into oval-shaped patties or meatballs.
- Grill or pan-fry the kofta until cooked through.
27. Beef and Green Bean Stir-fry
A quick and easy stir-fry that is perfect for a busy weeknight. The green beans add a nice crunch and extra nutrients.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 lb green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet or wok. Drain excess fat.
- Add the green beans and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the coconut aminos and ginger. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
28. Beef and Mushroom Lettuce Wraps
These lettuce wraps are a light and refreshing meal. The mushrooms add a delicious umami flavor and extra nutrients.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 oz mushrooms, chopped
- 1 head of butter lettuce, leaves separated
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef with the mushrooms in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the coconut aminos.
- Serve the beef and mushroom mixture in the lettuce cups.
29. Clean Eating Beef and Pasta
Enjoy a classic pasta dish without the guilt. This recipe uses brown rice pasta and a simple, clean marinara sauce.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 oz brown rice pasta, cooked
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce, no sugar added
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Serve the sauce over the cooked brown rice pasta.
30. Beef and Egg Muffins
These protein-packed muffins are perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or snack. They are easy to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef, cooked and crumbled
- 12 eggs
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Stir in the cooked ground beef and spinach. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased muffin tin.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
