Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps

These Spiced Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps are the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy goodness, all wrapped up in a crisp, refreshing butter lettuce leaf. Packed with fresh vegetables, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sesame, every bite delivers bold Asian-inspired flavors that satisfy your craving for something light yet hearty.

This dish is a fantastic option for low-carb lovers, busy weeknight cooks, or anyone looking for a flavorful meal without the fuss. It’s quick to prepare, easy to scale for meal prep, and can be customized with your favorite toppings like crushed peanuts, sriracha, or even a drizzle of hoisin sauce. Healthy doesn’t have to be boring and this dish proves it!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (90/10 or 85/15)

• 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 large carrot, shredded

• 3 scallions, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger

• 1 tbsp coconut aminos (or soy sauce)

• 2 tsp rice vinegar

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• Butter lettuce or Bibb lettuce leaves

• Chopped cilantro, sesame seeds, lime wedges (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Add bell pepper and shredded carrot to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.

3. Stir in scallions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté another 2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Add coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix well and let simmer for 2 more minutes to combine flavors.

5. Remove from heat and spoon the beef mixture into individual lettuce leaves.

6. Garnish with cilantro, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 265 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

A Light and Flavorful Favorite: Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps

If you’re looking for a flavorful, low-carb, and super satisfying dish that fits a range of diets: keto, paleo, Whole30, or simply clean eating look no further than Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps. These wraps are inspired by popular Asian lettuce cups, offering bold flavors, satisfying textures, and a refreshing finish thanks to the crisp lettuce base. Whether you’re hosting a weeknight dinner, planning a meal-prep session, or simply looking to switch up your usual routine, this recipe has everything you need.

Not only are these wraps incredibly easy to prepare, often taking less than 30 minutes but they also allow for a wide range of variations and personalizations. They’re perfect for busy families, health-focused individuals, or anyone craving a quick and flavorful meal that doesn’t involve complex cooking or ingredients.

Let’s dive into what makes these lettuce wraps a household favorite and how you can make the most out of this vibrant, nutrient-dense recipe.

The Origins of Lettuce Wraps

Lettuce wraps have become a staple on menus across the globe, from high-end restaurants to casual weeknight dinners. While the concept of wrapping protein and vegetables in lettuce is popular in many global cuisines, modern versions often trace their inspiration to Asian dishes, especially Korean, Thai, and Chinese cuisine.

Popularized in the U.S. through restaurant chains like P.F. Chang’s, lettuce wraps typically feature stir-fried protein, vegetables, and flavorful sauces, all served in butter lettuce or romaine leaves. Our version leans into clean, wholesome ingredients with a touch of savory spice and umami that makes it both crave-worthy and light.

Why You’ll Love These Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps

• Fast & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes from prep to plate.

• Healthy – Naturally low-carb, gluten-free, dairy-free, and Whole30 compliant.

• Versatile – Swap ingredients based on what you have in your fridge.

• Meal Prep Friendly – Great for make-ahead lunches or batch cooking.

• Customizable – Add your favorite toppings or sauces to switch up flavors.

These wraps hit the sweet spot between convenience and clean eating. And because they use pantry staples like ground beef, coconut aminos (or soy sauce), garlic, and ginger, you might already have everything you need to get started.

Highlighting the Key Ingredients

Each component of this dish brings its own nutritional value and flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at what makes these wraps both delicious and wholesome:

Ground Beef

High in protein, iron, and vitamin B12, ground beef forms the hearty foundation of this recipe. Opt for 85% or 90% lean beef to balance flavor and nutrition. Grass-fed beef is a great option if you want to go the extra mile for quality and ethical sourcing.

Butter Lettuce

Soft, flexible, and slightly sweet, butter lettuce (also known as Bibb or Boston lettuce) is the ideal wrap. It holds the filling well without overpowering the flavors. Its low-calorie, high-water content adds a fresh crunch to every bite.

Coconut Aminos

A soy-free alternative to soy sauce, coconut aminos bring that essential umami depth while keeping things paleo and gluten-free. If you’re not sensitive to soy, feel free to use low-sodium soy sauce instead.

Fresh Garlic & Ginger

These aromatics are non-negotiable. Garlic brings pungent, bold flavor, while fresh ginger adds warmth and a subtle peppery spice. Together, they create the unmistakable base of Asian-inspired cuisine.

Red Bell Pepper & Carrot

These vegetables add a pop of color, crunch, and nutrients. Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, while carrots offer beta-carotene for eye health.

Sesame Oil & Rice Vinegar

Just a touch of sesame oil goes a long way to deliver toasted, nutty richness. Rice vinegar brightens up the dish, balancing the savory and umami notes beautifully.

Health Benefits of Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps

Aside from being absolutely delicious, these lettuce wraps check several health-conscious boxes:

• Low in Carbs: Each serving is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for keto and low-glycemic diets.

• Gluten-Free: Coconut aminos (or tamari/soy sauce alternatives) ensure this dish is safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.

• High in Protein: With ground beef as the base, you’re getting a high-protein meal that helps with muscle maintenance and satiety.

• Rich in Micronutrients: From vitamin A in carrots to vitamin K in lettuce, this dish supports a range of bodily functions.

• Anti-Inflammatory Flavors: Garlic and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties, helping support digestion and immune health.

How to Make These Wraps Even More Amazing

Here are a few simple ideas to elevate this dish:

• Add Crunch: Top with chopped peanuts, crushed cashews, or water chestnuts.

• Amp Up the Heat: Drizzle with sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a spicier bite.

• Make It Sweet & Savory: Add a spoonful of pineapple or mango salsa for a tropical twist.

• Use Other Proteins: Swap beef for ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

• Go Fusion: Use chipotle powder and lime juice to add a Mexican-inspired twist.

Meal Prep, Storage & Leftovers

These lettuce wraps are incredibly meal-prep friendly. You can cook the filling ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the beef mixture and serve with fresh lettuce cups.

For longer storage, the cooked filling can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it cool before freezing and defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To prevent soggy lettuce, always store lettuce and filling separately. Prep your lettuce wraps fresh when serving to preserve texture and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

While these wraps are satisfying on their own, you can easily pair them with other dishes to make a complete meal:

• Steamed Jasmine or Cauliflower Rice – For extra substance or a low-carb base.

• Asian Slaw – A crunchy, colorful side salad with sesame dressing complements the wraps beautifully.

• Miso Soup or Bone Broth – Light and nourishing additions for a balanced lunch or dinner.

• Cucumber Salad – A refreshing way to offset the savory warmth of the beef.

These options are easy to prep and make the entire meal feel elevated, even when you’re short on time.

A Deliciously Practical Choice

Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps are more than just a quick fix, they’re a smart, flavorful choice for any home cook. With easy-to-find ingredients and a simple cooking method, this dish fits seamlessly into busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or even dinner parties where you want something customizable and crowd-pleasing.

This recipe is a reminder that healthy food doesn’t have to be bland or boring. It can be vibrant, satisfying, and easy to adapt. Whether you’re watching your carbs, trying to eat clean, or just want something new to shake up your dinner routine, these wraps will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps deliver big on flavor, texture, and nutrition. They’re fast, flexible, and endlessly customizable, making them the perfect option for those looking for a healthier meal without sacrificing taste. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and pantry staples, you’ll have a dish that’s not only delicious but also aligns with a wide range of dietary goals.

So, next time you’re tempted to order takeout or need a reliable go-to dinner, give these wraps a try. They might just become your new weeknight staple and your body will thank you for it.