Finding tasty meals that fit your Weight Watchers plan doesn’t have to be hard. Ground beef can be a versatile and budget-friendly protein option for creating delicious, point-friendly dinners.
You’ll discover that lean ground beef works well in everything from classic tacos to pasta dishes and hearty casseroles.
These 21 easy Weight Watchers ground beef recipes will help you prepare satisfying meals without sacrificing flavor or going over your daily points. From hamburger steaks with mushroom gravy to beef lettuce wraps, these recipes offer variety for your weekly meal planning.
Using 93% lean ground beef is a smart choice to keep points lower while still enjoying your favorite comfort foods.
1. Weight Watchers Meatloaf
Weight Watchers meatloaf is a delicious, points-friendly version of the classic comfort food. It uses lean ground beef to keep the points value low while maintaining flavor.
The basic recipe includes lean ground beef (93% lean), oats instead of breadcrumbs, and a pack of French onion soup mix for seasoning. Some versions also include eggs, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce for added flavor.
For the glaze, zero-sugar ketchup is a great option to reduce points further. This meatloaf can be as low as zero points on some Weight Watchers plans, depending on your personalized plan.
You’ll appreciate the generous serving size while staying on track with your Weight Watchers goals.
2. Walking Taco Casserole
Walking Taco Casserole is a fun, family-friendly dish that’s perfect for your Weight Watchers meal plan. This tasty casserole combines ground beef, onions, and green chilies for a flavorful base.
It features layers of Fritos corn chips, seasoned beef, and cheese baked until melty. You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your points budget by using lean ground beef and reduced-fat cheese.
Top your casserole with shredded lettuce, a dollop of light sour cream, and salsa for a complete meal.
You’ll love how this dish brings all the walking taco flavors together in one easy-to-serve casserole format.
3. Healthy Beef Tacos
Tacos are a fantastic way to enjoy ground beef while keeping your meals healthy and Point-friendly. Use extra lean ground beef (93% lean or higher) to keep the fat content low.
Season your beef with Lawry’s Taco Seasoning or make your own blend to control sodium. Adding water helps distribute the flavors evenly through the meat.
For a smart portion trick, mix in beans with your beef. This stretches your meat further and adds fiber to keep you feeling full longer.
Serve in low-carb tortillas or lettuce cups with plenty of fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and a sprinkle of reduced-fat cheese.
4. Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese can be Weight Watchers friendly with a few simple tweaks. The key is using lean ground beef instead of fattier options.
For a WW-approved version, use 92% lean ground beef or substitute with 85/15 beef if that’s what you have available. Skip the fatty pork that traditional recipes call for.
Add plenty of vegetables like diced onions, minced garlic, and carrots to bulk up the sauce while keeping points low. Some recipes include low-fat cottage cheese to add creaminess without many points.
Serve your Bolognese with measured portions of pasta to keep the meal within your daily points allowance.
5. Big Mac Salad
Big Mac Salad offers all the flavor of the famous burger without the bun. This weight-friendly option uses lean ground beef or ground turkey to keep the points low.
To make this salad, brown your beef with seasonings, then combine with iceberg lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, pickles, and shredded cheese.
The secret to authentic Big Mac flavor is the homemade thousand island dressing. You can use a lighter version to further reduce points.
This protein-packed meal is filling and satisfying. It works perfectly for lunch or dinner when you’re craving fast food but want to stay on track with your Weight Watchers plan.
6. Hamburger Stroganoff
Hamburger Stroganoff is a Weight Watchers favorite that offers a healthier twist on traditional beef stroganoff. This dish uses lean ground beef instead of higher-fat cuts, significantly reducing the calorie and point count.
A typical Weight Watchers version comes in at about 10 Personal Points per serving, compared to the original recipe’s 15 points. The creamy texture comes from lighter cream cheese alternatives.
For the best results, use 93% lean ground beef sautéed with onions and mushrooms. Some recipes include McCormick Beef Stroganoff seasoning for added flavor without extra points.
Serve your stroganoff over egg noodles or a lighter alternative if you’re watching points closely.
7. Cheesy Chili Mac
Cheesy Chili Mac brings together the best of comfort food in one easy dish. This Weight Watchers friendly meal combines lean ground beef, pasta, and zesty chili flavors.
To make this dish, cook 2 pounds of lean ground beef (96%) with chopped onion and garlic. Drain any fat to keep it lighter. Add elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes, and chili seasoning.
The recipe typically comes in at around 325 calories per serving. Point values range from 2-9 depending on your WW plan (Green, Blue, or Purple).
This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something filling and satisfying without much effort.
8. Classic Cuban Picadillo
Cuban Picadillo is a delicious way to use ground beef while keeping your meal light and flavorful. This dish combines extra lean ground beef with onions, garlic, and red bell peppers for a colorful base.
What makes Picadillo special is its unique mix of savory and sweet flavors. Olives add a salty bite that balances perfectly with the other ingredients.
You can serve this versatile dish over white rice for a traditional meal. It also works great as filling for tacos or empanadas if you’re looking for variety.
This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
9. Ranch Meatballs
Ranch meatballs offer a flavorful twist on a classic dish while keeping things Weight Watchers friendly. They combine lean ground beef with Hidden Valley ranch seasoning for a unique taste.
To make these meatballs, mix 1 pound of lean ground beef (96/4) with breadcrumbs, egg substitute, and ranch dressing or seasoning. You can add a pinch of salt and red pepper flakes for extra flavor if desired.
These meatballs bake easily in the oven. Once cooked, you can serve them as an appetizer or pair them with vegetables for a complete meal.
For meal prep, consider making a batch and freezing them for quick meals throughout the week.
10. Ground Beef Noodle Casserole
This hearty casserole combines lean ground beef with egg noodles for a satisfying meal that’s Weight Watchers friendly. It’s a perfect dinner option that works great as leftovers the next day.
Brown your ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic. Drain any excess fat to keep the points lower.
Mix in tomato sauce and diced tomatoes for flavor. Add your cooked egg noodles and stir everything together.
Top with a reasonable amount of shredded cheese before baking. You can also add mixed vegetables to boost the nutrition value while keeping the dish filling.
11. Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak is a comfort food classic that works well on Weight Watchers. This dish combines lean ground beef with simple seasonings to create satisfying patties.
For a lighter version, use 96% lean ground beef mixed with breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. These ingredients create flavorful patties that stay juicy.
The signature mushroom gravy can be made with Campbell’s French onion soup for convenience. You can also create a homemade version using mushrooms and onions.
Serve your Salisbury steak with mashed potatoes or vegetables for a complete meal. This hearty dish can fit into your points budget when made with lean meat and measured portions.
12. Beef Tamales
Beef tamales can be a delicious option for your Weight Watchers plan when made with lean ground beef. Traditional tamales often have high point values, but you can create a lighter version.
Try using 93% lean ground beef mixed with onions and garlic for the filling. Season with chili powder, cumin, and a dash of oregano for authentic flavor without extra calories.
For a quick weeknight version, consider making a slow cooker tamale pie. This uses the same flavors but eliminates the labor-intensive corn husk wrapping process.
You can further reduce points by using a thin layer of light cornbread on top instead of traditional masa.
13. Beef Tacos
Beef tacos are a family favorite that can fit into your Weight Watchers plan. Use extra lean ground beef to keep the points lower while still enjoying this classic dish.
Brown one pound of extra lean ground beef with diced onions. Add a package of taco seasoning and water according to package directions. For fewer points, try a homemade seasoning mix.
Serve your taco meat in corn tortillas or lettuce wraps for a lighter option. Top with low-fat cheese, fresh vegetables, and a dollop of fat-free Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
For a creative twist, try adding roasted sweet potatoes to your beef tacos for extra flavor and nutrition.
14. Spicy Ragu Gnocchi
Spicy Ragu Gnocchi is a tasty dish that combines lean ground beef with fluffy gnocchi. It’s only 7 SmartPoints per serving on Weight Watchers Freestyle, Blue, Green, and Purple plans.
This dish is both delicious and simple to make. You’ll mix ground beef with spices, gnocchi, and mature cheddar cheese for a satisfying meal.
To prepare it, cook the beef for about 2 minutes in a skillet. Then add pasta sauce, crushed red pepper, and parsley. Let this simmer on low until your gnocchi is cooked.
This comforting recipe is perfect when you want something hearty yet still fits within your Weight Watchers plan.
15. Orange Beef Lettuce Wraps
Orange Beef Lettuce Wraps are a delicious and light Weight Watchers-friendly meal option. These wraps combine lean ground beef with bright citrus flavors for a satisfying dish.
To make them, cook ground beef with minced garlic and fresh grated ginger. Add soy sauce and other seasonings as the meat browns.
The sauce typically includes rice vinegar, orange marmalade, water, and a small amount of sugar. This gives the beef a sweet-tangy orange flavor that’s really refreshing.
Serve the seasoned beef mixture in lettuce leaves for a low-carb meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. These wraps are both nutritious and filling while keeping your points low.
16. Easy Taco Soup
This Weight Watchers taco soup is perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal. It’s low in points but high in flavor, making it a smart choice for your weight management journey.
Brown 1 pound of lean ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic. Drain any excess fat to keep the points value low.
Add taco seasoning, a can of diced tomatoes, and a variety of beans. The beans add fiber and make the soup more filling.
Top your soup with a sprinkle of reduced-fat cheese or a dollop of fat-free Greek yogurt for extra creaminess without many additional points.
17. Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This simple stir-fry combines lean ground beef with colorful vegetables for a quick Weight Watchers friendly meal. You’ll love how this dish comes together in just minutes while offering plenty of protein and nutrients.
The recipe uses 90% lean ground beef to keep the Points value lower. Add red onions and a variety of colorful vegetables to boost nutrition and flavor without adding many Points.
A savory sauce ties everything together, creating a satisfying dinner option that fits into your Weight Watchers plan.
You can customize this stir-fry with your favorite vegetables based on what’s in season or already in your fridge.
Serve this versatile dish over cauliflower rice to keep the Points value down or with brown rice for a more filling meal.
18. Asian Beef Bowls
Asian Beef Bowls are a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for your Weight Watchers plan. Ready in under 30 minutes, these bowls combine lean ground beef with savory Asian-inspired seasonings.
The beef is typically cooked with ingredients like garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. These add tremendous flavor without adding many points.
Serve your beef over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice to reduce points further. Add plenty of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or shredded carrots to bulk up your meal.
This versatile dish works great for meal prep too. You can make a batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week for lunches or quick dinners.
19. Skinny Sloppy Joes
Skinny Sloppy Joes offer a healthier twist on the classic childhood favorite. This family-friendly recipe uses lean ground beef mixed with minced vegetables to create a nutritious meal.
It’s perfect for picky eaters since the veggies blend right in with the savory sauce. You can prepare this dish quickly for an easy weeknight dinner.
The recipe is Weight Watchers friendly with lower points than traditional versions. You won’t even need a can of Manwich to create these delicious sandwiches.
Serve them on whole grain buns for added fiber and nutrients. Your family will request these Skinny Sloppy Joes again and again.
20. Southwestern Beef Skillet
This flavorful one-pan meal brings a Tex-Mex twist to your dinner table while keeping points in check. Ground beef combines with rice, colorful peppers, onions, and zesty spices like cumin and chili powder.
The beef broth and tomato sauce create a rich base that infuses the rice as it cooks. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less spice according to your preference.
Ready in about 30 minutes, this skillet dish makes weeknight cooking simple.
For a Weight Watchers-friendly version, use lean ground beef (93% or leaner) to keep the points lower while maintaining flavor.
Serve with a simple side salad for a complete meal that satisfies your Southwestern food cravings.
21. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a Weight Watchers favorite that’s both colorful and satisfying. You can make them with lean ground beef (99% fat-free) to keep the points low.
Mix your browned beef with cooked rice, tomato sauce, and salsa for a flavorful filling. Some recipes use taco seasoning to add extra flavor without adding points.
Choose any color bell pepper you prefer – green, red, yellow, or orange. After stuffing the peppers with your beef mixture, top with a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Each pepper can be as low as 1 point depending on your ingredients. This dish is perfect for meal prep and makes a complete meal on its own.
Benefits of Using Ground Beef in Weight Watchers Recipes
Ground beef offers valuable advantages for those following Weight Watchers plans while trying to create satisfying meals. It provides essential nutrients while fitting into point-based meal planning and offers versatility in creating diverse recipes.
Nutritional Advantages
Ground beef provides high-quality protein that helps you feel full longer, which can support your weight loss goals.
A 3-ounce serving of 93% lean ground beef contains about 22 grams of protein with minimal Weight Watchers points.
This protein-rich food helps maintain muscle mass while you’re losing weight. Leaner varieties (90-96% lean) significantly reduce points compared to higher-fat options.
Ground beef also delivers important nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins that support energy levels and overall health. Iron is particularly valuable for preventing fatigue during weight loss.
You can further reduce points by combining ground beef with vegetables and whole grains, creating volume without adding many points. This approach follows Weight Watchers’ emphasis on natural, unprocessed foods that carry fewer points.
Affordability and Accessibility
Ground beef is budget-friendly compared to many other protein sources, making Weight Watchers more economical for long-term success. You can often find it on sale and purchase in bulk to freeze for later use.
It’s widely available in all grocery stores in various lean-to-fat ratios, allowing you to choose options that fit your point budget. Even small towns with limited food options typically stock ground beef.
Ground beef has a relatively long refrigerator life (3-4 days) and freezes well for months, reducing food waste and saving money. This convenience helps you stick to your Weight Watchers plan.
You can easily substitute ground beef into numerous recipes, from tacos to casseroles, making it simple to adapt family favorites to be Weight Watchers-friendly. This flexibility helps maintain variety in your meal plan without feeling restricted.
Cooking Techniques for Optimal Flavor
Getting the most flavor from your ground beef doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated methods. The right cooking techniques can transform your Weight Watchers meals from basic to delicious while keeping them point-friendly.
Seasoning Tips
Always season ground beef before cooking to build layers of flavor. Salt and pepper are essential, but don’t stop there.
Garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like oregano or thyme add depth without adding points.
For Mexican-inspired dishes, try cumin, chili powder, and a dash of smoked paprika. Italian flavors come alive with basil, oregano, and a small amount of red pepper flakes.
Pro tip: Add umami flavor with a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or low-sodium soy sauce per pound of beef.
Consider making your own spice blends to avoid added sugars and sodium found in pre-packaged mixes. Store homemade blends in airtight containers for up to six months.
Leaner Cooking Methods
Draining and rinsing cooked ground beef can reduce fat content by up to 50%, significantly lowering point values in your Weight Watchers meals.
Try the dry skillet method: Cook beef in a non-stick pan without added oils. Break it into small pieces as it cooks for even browning. Once browned, drain on paper towels or use a colander to remove excess fat.
Microwave technique: Place beef between layers of paper towels on a microwave-safe plate. Cook on high for 4-5 minutes, drain liquid, then break apart and finish cooking.
For the best flavor while keeping points low, brown beef thoroughly before adding other ingredients. Those browned bits contain concentrated flavor that makes your dish taste richer without adding points.
Substitutes and Alternatives for Ground Beef
Looking for healthier options to replace ground beef in your Weight Watchers meals? Several substitutes can help you reduce points while maintaining flavor and texture in your favorite recipes.
Plant-Based Proteins
Impossible and Beyond plant-based ground “meats” closely mimic beef in taste and cooking method. You can use them almost exactly like regular ground beef in most recipes. They typically have fewer points than regular ground beef while providing similar protein content.
TVP (textured vegetable protein) and TSP (textured soy protein) are affordable alternatives that absorb flavors well. Simply rehydrate them before cooking.
Canned beans make excellent ground beef substitutes in many dishes. Try black beans in tacos, kidney beans in chili, or white beans in pasta sauces. Beans add fiber and protein while keeping points low.
Lentils work wonderfully in hearty dishes like sloppy joes, shepherd’s pie, and meatloaf. They cook quickly and take on whatever seasonings you add.
Lean Meat Options
Ground chicken and turkey are excellent beef substitutes that significantly reduce fat and points. For a beefy flavor without the points, add beef bouillon when cooking these leaner meats.
Look for 99% fat-free ground turkey for the lowest point option. It works well in sauces, tacos, and casseroles.
When using ground chicken, add moisture with ingredients like diced onions or mushrooms to prevent dryness.
For Weight Watchers-friendly meals, stick to 93% lean ground beef or leaner when you do use beef. Three ounces is a good portion size to keep points manageable.
Ground bison provides a rich flavor with less fat than traditional beef. Though slightly more expensive, it’s worth trying in special dishes.
