Lean Beef 'N' Vegetables
A hearty, low-fat beef and vegetable stir-fry with savory sage and melted Swiss cheese, perfect for a quick, nutritious meal for any beef and veggie lover.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. lean ground beef
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil ⓘ
- 4 c. shredded green cabbage ⓘ
- 1 large onion, diced ⓘ
- 1 c. sliced fresh mushrooms ⓘ
- 1 medium red bell pepper, cored, seeded and cut into thin strips ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. dried sage leaves ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 c. coarsely grated low-fat Swiss cheese ⓘ
- salt to taste ⓘ
Instructions
- In a 12-inch skillet, cook ground beef until well-browned. Using a slotted spoon, remove beef to a bowl and set aside.
- Add oil to the drippings in the skillet.
- Heat over medium heat.
- Add cabbage and onion.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened.
- Add mushrooms, red bell peppers, sage, and black pepper.
- Cook for 5 minutes longer, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in Swiss cheese, reserved beef, and salt.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider swapping out the Swiss cheese for cheddar or a pepper jack for a bit of a kick. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey or chicken can replace the ground beef. To enhance the dish, add garlic or a splash of soy sauce. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand, like zucchini or carrots.
Serving Suggestions
Lean Beef 'N' Vegetables is great served over a bed of rice or quinoa, which complements the flavors nicely. For a fresh touch, pair it with a side salad or steamed broccoli. This meal also works well with crusty bread to soak up any leftover juices. It’s a satisfying option that can easily be part of your weeknight dinner rotation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; just ensure it's properly sealed to avoid freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lean Beef 'N' Vegetables contains roughly 635 calories, with 23g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (315% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 650mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be a convenient alternative. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to the skillet. Keep in mind that frozen vegetables may require less cooking time, so adjust accordingly to maintain their texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You could also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes during cooking for a gradual heat. If you enjoy spicy dishes, this adjustment will elevate the flavors and create a lively meal experience.
What is a good side dish to serve with this recipe?
A light cucumber and tomato salad pairs beautifully with Lean Beef 'N' Vegetables, balancing the hearty main dish. Alternatively, serve with mashed potatoes or a creamy coleslaw for a comforting side. For those exploring American recipes, corn on the cob is also a delicious addition.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).