30 High-Protein Hamburger Meat Recipes

Welcome to a collection of 30 delicious and satisfying high-protein hamburger meat recipes! Ground beef is already an excellent source of high-quality protein, but these recipes are specifically designed to maximize the protein content of your meals. By incorporating additional protein-rich ingredients like beans, lentils, quinoa, Greek yogurt, and cheese, these dishes will help you meet your daily protein goals while enjoying flavorful and exciting meals.

Whether you are an athlete looking to build muscle, someone trying to manage your weight, or simply looking for more filling and nutritious meal options, these recipes are perfect for you. From hearty skillets and comforting soups to satisfying casseroles and flavorful burgers, you’ll find a wide variety of dishes to suit your tastes and needs.

High-Protein Skillet Meals

1. Beef and Black Bean Skillet with Avocado

This skillet meal is a protein powerhouse, combining lean ground beef with black beans for a double dose of protein. The avocado adds healthy fats and a creamy texture.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef (93/7)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic, chili powder, and cumin, and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the black beans and diced tomatoes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Top with diced avocado and fresh cilantro before serving.

2. Greek Beef and Lentil Skillet

Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, and they pair perfectly with ground beef in this Mediterranean-inspired skillet.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet. Brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the lentils, beef broth, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in the feta cheese and parsley before serving.

3. Cheesy Beef and Quinoa Skillet

Quinoa is a complete protein, and when combined with ground beef and cheese, it creates a meal that is both incredibly nutritious and delicious.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the quinoa, beef broth, and diced tomatoes and green chilies. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked.
3. Stir in half of the cheese. Top with the remaining cheese and green onions. Cover and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.

4. Beef and Egg Scramble

Start your day with a protein-packed breakfast. This scramble combines ground beef with eggs for a satisfying and energizing meal.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb lean ground beef
• 8 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet with the ground beef. Cook and stir until the eggs are scrambled and cooked through.
4. Stir in the cheese and serve immediately.

5. High-Protein Beef and Cabbage Stir-fry

This stir-fry is loaded with protein from the beef and edamame, and the cabbage adds a nice crunch and extra nutrients.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup shelled edamame
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp grated ginger

Instructions:

1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok. Brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the cabbage and edamame and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Pour the sauce over the stir-fry and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Protein-Packed Soups and Stews

6. Beef and Barley Soup with White Beans

This hearty soup is loaded with protein from the beef, barley, and white beans. It’s a complete and satisfying meal in a bowl.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 tsp dried thyme

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef with the onion, carrots, and celery in a large pot. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the beef broth, barley, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
3. Stir in the cannellini beans and cook for another 5 minutes.

7. High-Protein Chili

This chili is packed with protein from the ground beef and three types of beans. It’s a classic comfort food that will keep you full and satisfied.

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
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 3 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef with the onion in a large pot. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, all three types of beans, chili powder, and cumin. Stir to combine.
3. Simmer for at least 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

8. Beef and Lentil Stew

Lentils are a protein and fiber powerhouse, and they make this stew incredibly hearty and nutritious.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp curry powder

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef with the onion in a large pot. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and curry powder. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

9. Creamy Beef and Mushroom Soup

This creamy soup gets an extra protein boost from Greek yogurt, which also adds a nice tangy 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 broth
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef with the mushrooms and onion in a large pot. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and cornstarch. Stir a small amount of the hot broth into the yogurt mixture, then pour the mixture back into the pot. Cook and stir until the soup has thickened.

10. Italian Wedding Soup with Extra Meatballs

This classic soup is already a good source of protein, but we’ve amped it up with extra meatballs for an even more satisfying meal.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup small pasta
• 5 oz spinach

Instructions:

1. Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Form into small meatballs.
2. Brown the meatballs in a large pot. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for 6 minutes.
4. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted. Serve hot.

Protein-Packed Casseroles

11. High-Protein Baked Ziti

This baked ziti is loaded with protein from the ground beef, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. It’s a satisfying and comforting casserole that’s perfect for a family dinner.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 (32-ounce) container part-skim ricotta cheese
• 16 oz ziti pasta, cooked
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ground beef, ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

12. Beef and Cottage Cheese Enchilada Casserole

Cottage cheese is a secret weapon for adding protein to dishes. In this casserole, it creates a creamy and protein-rich filling for the enchiladas.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 (16-ounce) container cottage cheese
• 1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
3. In a bowl, combine the ground beef and cottage cheese.
4. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Dip each tortilla in the remaining enchilada sauce, fill with the beef and cottage cheese mixture, and roll up. Place the enchiladas in the baking dish.
5. Top with any remaining sauce and the shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

13. Layered Beef and Bean Casserole

This layered casserole is like a healthier version of a seven-layer dip, but in a warm and satisfying casserole form. It’s packed with protein from the beef, beans, and Greek yogurt.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 (15-ounce) can refried beans
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
3. In a baking dish, spread the refried beans in an even layer. Top with the cooked ground beef, then the salsa, then the Greek yogurt, and finally the shredded cheese.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.

14. High-Protein Shepherd’s Pie

This shepherd’s pie has a surprise ingredient in the mashed potato topping: white beans! They add extra protein and make the topping incredibly creamy.

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 cup beef broth
• For the topping:
• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Boil the potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with the cannellini beans and milk until smooth.
3. Brown the ground beef with the onion in an oven-safe skillet. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables and beef broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Top the beef mixture with the mashed potato and bean topping.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is lightly browned.

15. Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells

These stuffed shells are filled with a protein-packed mixture of ground beef, ricotta cheese, and spinach. They’re a delicious and elegant meal that’s perfect for a special occasion.

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 12 jumbo pasta shells, cooked
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
3. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, ricotta cheese, and spinach.
4. Stuff the cooked pasta shells with the beef and ricotta mixture.
5. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish. Top with the remaining sauce and the mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes.

High-Protein Burgers and Meatballs

16. The Ultimate Protein Burger

This burger is packed with protein from the beef, egg, and cheese. It’s a satisfying and delicious way to refuel after a workout.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 egg
• 4 slices of your favorite cheese
• 4 whole wheat buns

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, gently mix the ground beef and egg together. Form into 4 patties.
2. Grill or pan-fry the patties to your desired doneness.
3. Top each patty with a slice of cheese during the last minute of cooking.
4. Serve on whole wheat buns with your favorite toppings.

17. Greek-Style Beef and Feta Burgers

These burgers are inspired by the flavors of Greece, with feta cheese mixed right into the patties for a salty and savory bite.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 4 whole wheat buns

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, gently combine the ground beef, feta cheese, parsley, and oregano. Form into 4 patties.
2. Grill or pan-fry the patties to your desired doneness.
3. Serve on whole wheat buns with toppings like tzatziki sauce, sliced cucumber, and red onion.

18. High-Protein Meatballs

These meatballs are made with a blend of ground beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor and protein. They’re perfect for serving with pasta or in a sub sandwich.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients. Mix gently and form into meatballs.
3. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

19. Beef and Quinoa Meatballs

Quinoa adds extra protein and a nice texture to these meatballs. They’re a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs and are just as delicious.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine all the ingredients. Form into meatballs.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

20. Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Burgers

These burgers have a kick of heat from the jalapeños and a cheesy surprise inside. They’re a fun and flavorful twist on the classic burger.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeños
• 4 whole wheat buns

Instructions:

1. Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a thin patty.
2. In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheese and chopped jalapeños.
3. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of 4 of the patties. Top with the remaining 4 patties and pinch the edges to seal the cheese inside.
4. Grill or pan-fry the stuffed burgers for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve on whole wheat buns.

More High-Protein Creations

21. Beef and Lentil Loaf

This meatloaf is made with a blend of ground beef and lentils, which not only increases the protein content but also adds fiber and moisture.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 cup cooked brown or green lentils
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup, plus more for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, lentils, onion, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix well.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan or on a baking sheet.
4. Top with a layer of ketchup.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until cooked through.

22. High-Protein Beef and Broccoli

This classic stir-fry gets a protein boost from the addition of edamame. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup shelled edamame
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet or wok. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the broccoli and edamame and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch. Pour the sauce over the stir-fry and cook until the sauce has thickened.

23. Beef and Egg Stuffed Avocados

These stuffed avocados are a fun and creative way to get a dose of protein and healthy fats. They’re perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying snack.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb lean ground beef
• 2 avocados
• 2 eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
3. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits. Scoop out a small amount of the avocado flesh to create a larger well.
4. Fill each avocado half with the cooked ground beef. Crack an egg into each well.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are set.

24. Protein-Packed Beef and Pasta Salad

This pasta salad is a complete meal, with protein from the beef and chickpeas, and plenty of fresh vegetables.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef, cooked and cooled
• 8 oz whole wheat pasta, cooked and cooled
• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup your favorite vinaigrette dressing

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, pasta, chickpeas, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
2. Pour the vinaigrette dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Serve immediately or chill for later.

25. Beef and Cheese Quesadillas

These quesadillas are a quick and easy way to get a dose of protein. They’re perfect for a simple lunch or dinner.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef, cooked
• 8 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

Instructions:

1. Place a tortilla in a large skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle with cheese, top with a layer of cooked ground beef, and then more cheese.
2. Top with another tortilla and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden brown.
3. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

26. High-Protein Beef Fried Rice

This fried rice is a complete meal in a bowl, with protein from the beef and eggs, and plenty of vegetables.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 4 cups cooked brown rice, chilled
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1/4 cup soy sauce

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet or wok. Drain excess fat and set aside.
2. Add the peas and carrots to the skillet and cook until heated through.
3. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs onto the other side. Scramble the eggs.
4. Add the cooked rice and ground beef to the skillet. Stir everything together.
5. Pour the soy sauce over the fried rice and stir to combine.

27. Beef and Spinach Manicotti

This manicotti is stuffed with a protein-rich mixture of ground beef, ricotta cheese, and spinach. It’s a delicious and satisfying Italian-inspired meal.

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 8 oz manicotti shells, cooked
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
3. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, ricotta cheese, and spinach.
4. Stuff the cooked manicotti shells with the beef and ricotta mixture.
5. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed manicotti in the dish. Top with the remaining sauce and the mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes.

28. Beef and White Bean Chili

This chili is a lighter and leaner version of the classic, but it’s still packed with protein from the beef and white beans.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp cumin

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef with the onion in a large pot. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30-35 minutes.

29. High-Protein Beef Tacos

These tacos are a simple and delicious way to get a dose of protein. The Greek yogurt adds extra protein and a creamy texture.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 8 hard or soft taco shells
• Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, plain Greek yogurt

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the taco seasoning and a small amount of water (according to package directions). Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Serve the taco meat in taco shells with your favorite toppings.

30. Beef and Edamame Lettuce Wraps

These lettuce wraps are a light and refreshing meal that’s packed with protein from the beef and edamame.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup shelled edamame
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 1 head of butter lettuce, leaves separated

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in the edamame and hoisin sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Serve the beef and edamame mixture in the lettuce cups.