Are you looking to make a positive impact on your heart health, but don’t want to sacrifice flavor? Look no further! Ground beef can be a great addition to a healthy diet when cooked with care and attention to ingredients. In fact, lean cuts of ground beef are an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals that support heart health.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious low sodium ground beef recipes that will satisfy your cravings while keeping your sodium intake in check. From classic comfort foods to international twists and flavor-packed stir-fries, these recipes showcase the versatility of low sodium ground beef and provide a wealth of inspiration for meal planning and cooking.
Low Sodium Beef and Veggie Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stir-fries, using lean beef and a variety of colorful vegetables to create a dish that’s both tasty and nutritious. With only 350mg of sodium per serving, this recipe is perfect for those looking to reduce their sodium intake.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean beef (90% lean), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt-free seasoning blend to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and garlic to the pan and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Return the beef to the pan and stir in low-sodium soy sauce.
5. Season with salt-free seasoning blend to taste.
6. Cook for an additional minute and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Low Sodium Beef Meatballs
This recipe offers a flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, with a focus on reducing sodium content without sacrificing taste. Perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional meatball recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (90% lean)
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt-free seasoning blend (to taste)
– Low-sodium breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, oats, parsley, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Add salt-free seasoning blend and mix again until evenly distributed.
4. Use wet hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Low Sodium Beef and Mushroom Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of tender beef, savory mushrooms, and crunchy bell peppers to create a delicious and healthy dish that’s easy on the sodium intake. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb lean ground beef (93% lean)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt-free seasoning blend to taste
– 1/4 cup reduced-sodium beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, mushrooms, cooked rice, oregano, paprika, and salt-free seasoning blend to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and top with reduced-sodium beef broth.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Low Sodium Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of a classic taco without the guilt, thanks to this recipe’s focus on lean beef and low-sodium seasonings. This dish is perfect for those looking for a healthier twist on a Mexican favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 1/2 cup low-sodium tomato paste
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt-free seasoning blend to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Fresh salsa (see below for recipe)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and salt-free seasoning blend to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla and topping with fresh salsa.
Fresh Salsa Recipe:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Low Sodium Beef and Quinoa Skillet
This hearty skillet dish is a great way to get your daily dose of protein, fiber, and flavor without breaking the bank (or your sodium budget). With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and nutritious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using low-sodium chicken broth.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in cooked quinoa, oregano, and salt-free seasoning blend (if using).
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Low Sodium Beef and Cabbage Soup
Savory Low Sodium Beef and Cabbage Soup Recipe
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of tender beef, crunchy cabbage, and savory flavors, all while keeping sodium levels low. This recipe makes 6 servings and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound lean beef (90% or higher), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef pieces and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onions to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cabbage, carrots, and thyme to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
6. Return the browned beef to the pot and season with salt-free seasoning blend (if using). Simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Low Sodium Beef and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
A flavorful twist on traditional lasagna, these rolls combine tender beef, wilted spinach, and gooey cheese in a low-sodium package. Perfect for a healthy dinner option that still packs plenty of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup low-sodium marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt-free seasoning blend (such as Mrs. Dash)
– Olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a skillet until browned, breaking up into small pieces.
3. Add spinach and marinara sauce; simmer until heated through.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions.
5. Combine cooked beef mixture, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Place a cooked noodle on a flat surface, spoon beef mixture onto the center of the noodle, and roll up tightly. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Place rolls seam-side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish; drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Zesty Low Sodium Beef Chili
Savor the flavor of this hearty, low-sodium beef chili that’s packed with zesty spices and tender ground beef. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, no salt added
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh bell peppers
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt-free seasoning blend (to taste)
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and bell peppers. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt-free seasoning blend to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Low Sodium Beef and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful hash made with tender beef, sweet potatoes, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% or higher)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt-free seasoning blend (such as Mrs. Dash)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet; cook for 5 minutes.
5. Sprinkle thyme and salt-free seasoning blend over the mixture; stir to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Garlicky Low Sodium Beef and Broccoli
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on classic beef and broccoli, with a focus on reducing sodium levels. Perfect for those looking to make a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean beef strips (90% lean or higher)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Remove beef from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add garlic and broccoli. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until broccoli is tender.
6. Add cooked beef back into the skillet and stir in low-sodium soy sauce and black pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Low Sodium Beef and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of tender beef, flavorful lentils, and aromatic spices, all with minimal sodium content. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in lentils, beef broth, thyme, paprika, and salt-free seasoning blend (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with additional salt-free seasoning if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Fresh Low Sodium Beef Lettuce Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the bold flavor of beef with the crisp freshness of lettuce and low sodium seasonings. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (low sodium)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt-free seasoning blend
– 8-10 lettuce leaves
– Optional: 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, and salt-free seasoning blend. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Grill beef for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, wash and dry lettuce leaves.
6. Assemble wraps by placing a cooked beef patty onto a lettuce leaf, followed by any optional toppings (red bell pepper and feta cheese).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Low Sodium Beef and Zucchini Casserole
This hearty casserole combines tender beef, crunchy zucchini, and creamy sauce, all in a low-sodium package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup low-sodium tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
– 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking into small pieces, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate skillet, sauté zucchini, onion, and garlic until tender.
4. Combine cooked beef, tomato sauce, sour cream, oregano, paprika, and salt-free seasoning blend (if using) in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with sautéed zucchini mixture and shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Low Sodium Beef and Black Bean Burritos
This recipe combines tender beef, flavorful black beans, and spices to create a deliciously spicy burrito that’s low in sodium. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt-free seasoning blend (to taste)
– 6 low-sodium tortillas
– Shredded reduced-fat cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and salt-free seasoning blend. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked black beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the burritos by spooning the beef and bean mixture onto the tortilla, followed by any desired cheese.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Low Sodium Beef and Brown Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is low in sodium and packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% or higher)
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt-free seasoning blend (or to taste)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the cooked rice, onion, garlic, and oregano to the skillet and stir until combined.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling them as full as possible.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt-free seasoning blend (or to taste).
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tangy Low Sodium Beef and Tomato Pasta
This hearty pasta dish is a flavorful twist on traditional beef and tomato sauce, with a tangy kick from the addition of fresh parsley and lemon juice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
– 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, no salt added
– 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt-free seasoning blend to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, olive oil, oregano, parsley, lemon juice, and salt-free seasoning blend to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and sauce in a large serving bowl. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low Sodium Beef and Carrot Meatloaf
This classic meatloaf recipe is a flavorful twist on the traditional dish, with reduced sodium levels to cater to those with dietary restrictions. This hearty loaf is packed with lean beef, carrots, and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (90% lean)
– 1 large carrot, grated
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup low-sodium ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp salt-free seasoning blend
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated carrot, oats, egg, low-sodium ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and salt-free seasoning blend. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Light Low Sodium Beef and Eggplant Moussaka
This classic Greek dish gets a flavorful twist with lean beef and low-sodium ingredients, making it a healthier option without sacrificing taste. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (93% lean)
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup low-sodium tomato sauce
– 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt-free seasoning blend (to taste)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook eggplant slices in a non-stick skillet with 1 tsp olive oil until tender and lightly browned. Drain on paper towels.
3. In the same skillet, cook beef, onion, and garlic until beef is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked eggplant, beef mixture, tomato sauce, cheese, oregano, and salt-free seasoning blend. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Low Sodium Beef and Barley Soup
This hearty soup is a great way to warm up on a chilly day while keeping sodium levels in check. With the combination of tender beef, nutty barley, and flavorful vegetables, this recipe is a delicious and healthy option for a quick meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the pearl barley, low-sodium beef broth, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the barley is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of crusty bread or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Flavorful Low Sodium Beef and Green Bean Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the savory flavor of beef with the crunch of green beans, all while keeping sodium levels low. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean beef strips (90% lean or higher)
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (low sodium)
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt-free seasoning blend to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the green beans to the pan and cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Return the beef strips to the pan and stir in soy sauce, honey, and salt-free seasoning blend.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then serve hot. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover delicious and healthy low sodium ground beef recipes that are perfect for heart health. This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes includes everything from stir-fries to meatballs, stuffed peppers to chili, and more! Each recipe has been carefully crafted to reduce sodium levels without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these low sodium ground beef recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So why wait? Get cooking and start enjoying the taste of good health today!
