Lean ground beef is a key ingredient in a ketogenic diet. While meat and poultry are carb-free and packed with protein and nutrients, grass-fed options are even better, offering more conjugated linoleic acid, antioxidants, omega-3 fats, and other essential nutrients. Lean ground beef stands out for its low-fat content, making it a favorite among keto enthusiasts. If you’re looking for ways to cook the ground beef in your fridge, here are some ideas.
For a light, tasty, and gluten-free lunch, try Keto Asian Cabbage Stir-fry. You’ll need lean ground beef, cabbage, garlic, and soy sauce or tamari. Feel free to add low-carb veggies like cauliflower, broccoli, or kale. You can also swap the beef for another protein if you prefer. This dish is not only easy to make but also healthy, as cabbage is rich in antioxidants that can reduce cancer risks and prevent DNA damage. It also contains anthocyanins, which help lower the risk of heart disease.
Who says you need buns for a delicious burger? Try a Bunless Keto Hamburger with creamy tomato sauce and fried cabbage on the side. For the patties, use lean ground beef, feta cheese, black pepper, fresh parsley, olive oil, and butter. The creamy tomato gravy requires ground beef, whipping cream, fresh parsley, and tomato paste. For the sautéed cabbage, you’ll need butter, salt, pepper, and green cabbage.
If you’re craving burgers but want to skip the grill, try Sheet Pan Burgers with Bacon and Jalapeño. Use keto bread made with egg whites and protein powder for the buns. The patties, made from ground beef, pair well with onions, pepper jack cheese, and jalapeños. Don’t forget the bacon, which adds extra flavor as it cooks with the onions and jalapeños. This dish is perfect for spice lovers.
For a quick and easy lunch, Sriracha Beef Lettuce Wraps are a great choice. The only time-consuming part is marinating the beef, but it’s worth it for a stress-free meal the next day. You can use lean ground beef or try cube steak, which is tender and works well in lettuce wraps. Either way, you’ll enjoy a heart-healthy, spicy lunch.
Another Asian-inspired dish to try is the Korean Ground Beef Bowl. Instead of high-carb sugar and rice, this version uses cauliflower rice, making it a low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly option. The lean ground beef is flavorful, thanks to a stir-fry sauce made with garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in airtight containers in the freezer for a quick meal anytime.
For a keto-friendly noodle dish, skip the instant ramen and try shirataki noodles, which are low in calories and carbs. To add flavor, use lean ground beef, red pepper flakes, onion, garlic, ginger, sesame and vegetable oil, soy sauce, and broth. This spicy beef ‘miracle’ ramen is perfect for cold winter days.
Remember, while a ketogenic lifestyle often includes meat, it’s important to consume it in moderation to stay in ketosis.