Low Carb Sheet Pan Ground Beef Wraps

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Low Carb Sheet Pan Ground Beef Wraps

Sheet pan meals are a weeknight dinner champion, and these Low Carb Sheet Pan Ground Beef Wraps take that convenience to a whole new level. Imagine seasoned ground beef and vibrant veggies roasted to perfection on a single pan, ready to be piled into crisp lettuce cups for a satisfying and healthy meal. This recipe is not only incredibly easy to make but also delivers a flavorful and customizable dining experience perfect for busy families or anyone looking to cut back on carbs without sacrificing taste.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This low-carb sheet pan dinner offers numerous advantages:

  • Quick & Easy: Minimal prep time and easy cleanup make this a perfect weeknight meal. Just chop, season, and roast!
  • Low Carb & Keto-Friendly: By using lettuce wraps instead of traditional tortillas, this recipe significantly reduces carbohydrate intake.
  • Customizable: Easily adapt the vegetables, spices, and toppings to your liking. This is a great way to use up leftover veggies.
  • Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber from the ground beef and vegetables, this meal is both filling and good for you.
  • Flavorful: A combination of spices creates a delicious depth of flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients and Equipment

Before diving into the recipe, gather your ingredients and equipment:

Ingredients:

    • Ground Beef: 1 pound, preferably lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
    • Vegetables:
   Bell Peppers: 1 large, any color, chopped
   Onion: 1 medium, chopped
   Zucchini: 1 medium, chopped
   Mushrooms: 8 oz, sliced (optional)
   Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved (optional)
    • Spices:
   Chili Powder: 2 teaspoons
   Cumin: 1 teaspoon
   Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
   Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
   Smoked Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
   Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
   Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
   Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for heat)
    • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
    • Lettuce Wraps: Large lettuce leaves, such as butter lettuce or romaine lettuce
    • Toppings (optional):
   Avocado: Sliced or diced
   Salsa: Your favorite variety
   Sour Cream or Plain Greek Yogurt
   Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend (choose a low-carb option)
   Fresh Cilantro: Chopped
   Lime Wedges: For serving

Equipment:

  • Sheet Pan: A large baking sheet
  • Mixing Bowl: For seasoning the beef and vegetables
  • Knife: For chopping the vegetables
  • Cutting Board: For preparing the ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious low-carb sheet pan ground beef wraps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare Ground Beef: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until the spices are evenly distributed.

3. Prepare Vegetables: In the same mixing bowl (or a separate bowl), toss the chopped bell peppers, onion, zucchini, mushrooms (if using), and cherry tomatoes (if using) with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

4. Arrange on Sheet Pan: Spread the seasoned ground beef evenly over the prepared sheet pan. Arrange the vegetables around the ground beef, ensuring they are in a single layer for even cooking.

5. Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the ground beef is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking. If the vegetables start to brown too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly.

6. Prepare Lettuce Wraps: While the ground beef and vegetables are roasting, wash and dry your lettuce leaves.

7. Assemble Wraps: Once the ground beef and vegetables are cooked, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Spoon the ground beef and vegetable mixture into the lettuce cups.

8. Add Toppings: Top with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, salsa, sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

9. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Make this recipe your own with these helpful tips and variations:

Cooking Tips:

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure the ground beef and vegetables are spread in a single layer on the sheet pan to ensure even cooking. If necessary, use two sheet pans.
  • Use Parchment Paper: Line the sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  • Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking time may vary depending on your oven. Check the internal temperature of the ground beef to ensure it is fully cooked (160°F or 71°C).
  • Broil for Extra Browning: For extra browning, broil the ground beef and vegetables for the last few minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Ingredient Variations:

  • Ground Meat: Substitute ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground pork for the ground beef.
  • Vegetables: Add or substitute other low-carb vegetables, such as broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, Brussels sprouts, or green beans.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef for extra heat.
  • Mexican Flavors: Use taco seasoning instead of the spices listed in the recipe for a more authentic Mexican flavor. Add a can of diced tomatoes and green chiles to the vegetables.
  • Mediterranean Flavors: Add chopped Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice to the wraps for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Asian Flavors: Use soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to season the ground beef and vegetables. Add shredded carrots and bean sprouts to the wraps.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Side Dishes: Serve with a side of cauliflower rice, a mixed green salad, or a low-carb coleslaw.
  • Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Store the cooked ground beef and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat and assemble the wraps when ready to eat.
  • Family-Friendly: Allow everyone to customize their own wraps with their favorite toppings.

Health Benefits of Low-Carb Eating

Choosing a low-carb lifestyle, even some of the time, can bring many advantages:

  • Weight Management: By reducing carbohydrate intake, your body may start burning fat for energy, leading to weight loss.
  • Improved Blood Sugar Control: Lowering carbs can help regulate blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance.
  • Increased Energy Levels: Many people experience more stable energy levels throughout the day when following a low-carb diet.
  • Reduced Cravings: Cutting back on processed carbohydrates can help reduce cravings for sugary and starchy foods.
  • Heart Health: Some studies suggest that low-carb diets may improve cholesterol levels and other risk factors for cardiovascular issues.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making significant dietary changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about low-carb sheet pan ground beef wraps:

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the ground beef and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat and assemble the wraps when you’re ready to eat.

Can I freeze the cooked ground beef and vegetables?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked ground beef and vegetables for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What kind of lettuce is best for wraps?

Butter lettuce and romaine lettuce are great options for wraps because they are sturdy and hold their shape well.

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground pork for the ground beef.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef for extra heat. You can also add diced jalapeños to the vegetables.

What are some other low-carb toppings I can use?

Other low-carb toppings include guacamole, chopped olives, pickled onions, and sugar-free salsa.

Is this recipe suitable for people with diabetes?

This recipe can be a good option for people with diabetes because it is low in carbohydrates and high in protein and fiber. However, it’s important to monitor blood sugar levels and adjust portion sizes as needed. Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.

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