5 Easy High-Protein Beef Recipes to Fuel Your Day
Looking to eat healthier without going hungry? Research shows that people who eat a higher-protein diet (about 30% of daily calories from protein) feel more satisfied, which can help prevent overeating(1). Plus, protein can support weight management by making exercise more effective and helping you build and replenish muscle(2,3). And what’s more, spreading protein intake throughout your day—not just saving it for lunch or dinner—can help you get the most benefits from every meal. Aim for 25-30 grams of protein at each meal, and you’ll start to feel the difference.
Let’s forget the fad diets and focus on building meals that are balanced, protein-rich, and keep us full of energy and satisfied all day long. These five delicious beef recipes make it easy to incorporate quality protein into every meal, from breakfast to dinner.
1. Steak and Eggs Skillet with Chimichurri and Sweet Potatoes
Why You’ll Love It: This twist on the classic steak and eggs breakfast is topped with fresh chimichurri—a deliciously herby sauce that brightens up the whole dish.
Power Perks: With about 25 grams of protein per serving from the beef, this meal helps you start your day with energy. Sweet potatoes add fiber and carbs for long-lasting fuel.
How to Enjoy: Dish it up straight from the skillet with extra chimichurri for dipping. This hearty breakfast will keep you satisfied all morning.
2. Sizzling Asian Stir-Fry
Why You’ll Love It: This beef and veggie stir-fry is fast, flavorful, and has 30g of protein! With a savory soy sauce and a mix of colorful veggies, it’s a tasty, no-fuss option for any weeknight.
Power Perks: Lean beef provides essential amino acids to support muscle health. The veggies add fiber and important vitamins, making it a balanced meal in one bowl.
How to Enjoy: Serve over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb twist. Add sesame seeds or green onions for extra flavor!
3. Sheet Pan Beef and Zucchini Meatballs with Maple Lemon Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes
Why You’ll Love It: This easy sheet pan recipe combines savory beef and zucchini meatballs with roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes for a flavor-packed dinner with minimal cleanup.
Power Perks: This easy sheet pan meal is loaded with 43g of protein per serving. The sweet and tangy maple lemon glaze adds a touch of sweetness you’ll love!
How to Enjoy: Serve these meatballs over quinoa, rice, or a bed of greens for a delicious dinner. Great for meal prep—just portion into containers for grab-and-go meals during the week.
4. Beef Breakfast Burritos
Why You’ll Love It: These breakfast burritos are packed with protein and easy to grab on busy mornings. With scrambled eggs, beef, and your favorite veggies all rolled up, it’s a filling, portable breakfast you can make ahead.
Power Perks: With 38g of protein, these burritos help keep you full and energized for the day ahead.
How to Enjoy: Wrap them tightly and freeze for later! Just heat them up in the microwave or toaster oven for a quick, high-protein breakfast.
5. Beef San Choy Bao (Chinese Lettuce Cups)
Why You’ll Love It: These fresh lettuce cups are light yet flavorful, filled with savory ground beef and seasonings that make every bite exciting. They’re a great low-carb option that’s big on taste.
Power Perks: Filled with 36g of protein per serving this dish satisfying without weighing you down. It’s perfect for a quick, protein-rich meal!
How to Enjoy: Serve as an appetizer or main dish, and pair with steamed rice if you want something more filling. Great for entertaining—guests love these fun lettuce wraps.
These five recipes make it easy to enjoy the benefits of a high-protein diet at every meal. Give them a try and see how small changes to each plate can lead to big boosts in energy and satisfaction!
Sources:
- • Leidy HJ, et al. Beneficial effects of a higher-protein breakfast on the appetitive, hormonal, and neural signals controlling energy intake regulation in overweight/obese, “breakfast-skipping,” late-adolescent girls. Am J Clin Nutr 2013;97:677-88.
• Westerterp-Plantenga MS, Luscombe-Marsh N, Lejeune MPGM, Diepvens K, Nieuwenhuizen A, Engelen MPKJ, Deutz NEP, Azzout-Marniche D, Tome D, Westerterp KR. Dietary protein, metabolism, and body-weight regulation: dose–response effects. Int J Obes 2006;30:S16-S23.
• Leidy HJ, Bossingham MJ, Mattes RD, Campbell WW. Increased dietary protein intake consumed at breakfast leads to an initial and sustained feeling of fullness during energy restriction compared to other meal times. Br J Nutr. 2009;101:798-803. - • U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. 2015. USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 28. Available at: http://www.ars.usda.gov/ba/bhnrc/ndl.
- • Layman DK, et al. Dietary protein and exercise have additive effects on body composition during weight loss in adult women. J Nutr 2005;135:1903-10.• Mamerow MM, Mettler JA, English KL, Casperson SL, Arentson-Lantz E, Sheffield-Moore M, Layman DK, Paddon-Jones D. Dietary Protein Distribution Positively Influences 24-h Muscle Protein Synthesis in Healthy Adults. J Nutr. 2014 Jan 29
