Beef dinners that use lean cuts and healthy ingredients are packed with protein, iron and B vitamins, making beef a great choice for people with diabetes.
57 Diabetic-Friendly Beef Recipes
Updated on Sep. 29, 2024
1/57
Skillet Meat Loaf
Total Time
30 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Who says meat loaf has to bake in the oven for hours? For this convenient recipe, all you need is your stovetop and 30 minutes. It’s a quick, simple dish to make for one or two people. —Emily Sund, Geneseo, Illinois.
Nutrition Facts:
1 meat loaf: 292 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 99mg cholesterol, 548mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 33g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
2/57
Spaghetti Pie
Total Time
55 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A classic Italian combination is remade into a creamy, family-pleasing spaghetti pie. This recipe was given to me several years ago. My family never grows tired of it. — Ellen Thompson, Springfield, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 348 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 52mg cholesterol, 690mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 4g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
For more recipe inspiration, check out these diabetic-friendly ground beef recipes.
3/57
Slow-Cooked Ropa Vieja
Total Time
8 hours 35 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I traveled to Cuba a few years back and had some of the best food imaginable. One staple dish stuck out more than the rest, and that was ropa vieja. I had multiple variations of it, and when I returned home, I began to experiment. I went through roughly five trials before coming to this recipe. —Joshua Boyer, Traverse City, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 278 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 72mg cholesterol, 611mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 vegetable.
4/57
Brunswick Stew
Total Time
2 hours 30 min
Servings
24 servings (6 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
Brunswick stew dates back to the 1860s, when it was served as a complete meal. We now use it as an accompaniment to barbecues. It is delicious picnic fare when served with country ribs, coleslaw or potato salad. When I make this stew, I double the recipe and freeze small portions so we can enjoy it at several meals. —Alyce Ray, Forest Park, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 151 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 348mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 starch.
5/57
Beef and Cabbage Stew
Total Time
2 hours 10 min
Servings
6-8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is one of my favorite meals since I don't have to stand over the stove or dirty a lot of pots and pans to prepare it. With six in the family, we have enough dishes to wash after each meal!
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 194 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 402mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 19g protein.
6/57
Favorite Beef Roast Dinner
Total Time
6 hours 15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is our family's favorite slow-cooked beef roast. My two children love it and always want seconds. I love putting together new flavor combinations in the kitchen. —Sheryl Padilla, Peyton, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked beef with 3/4 cup vegetables and 3 tablespoons cooking juices: 368 calories, 16g fat (6g saturated fat), 111mg cholesterol, 342mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 starch.
7/57
Slow-Cooker Beef Stew
Total Time
7 hours 25 min
Servings
8 servings (2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
When there's a chill in the air, nothing beats this beef stew. Seasoned with thyme and dry mustard, the hearty slow-cooker beef stew is chock-full of tender carrots, potatoes and meat. —Earnestine Wilson, Waco, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 272 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 541mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
8/57
Sassy Pot Roast
Total Time
8 hours 15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love walking into my home after a long day and smelling this lovely pot roast. You can add potatoes and carrots to round out the meal, and the leftover meat makes a comforting soup for the next night. —Susan Burkett, Monroeville, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked beef: 243 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 443mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
9/57
Horseradish-Encrusted Beef Tenderloin
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Wow your friends and family with this tender beef encased in a golden horseradish crust. Roasted garlic boosts the robust flavor even more. —Laura Bagozzi, Dublin, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked beef: 268 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 75mg cholesterol, 119mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 37g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 5 lean meat.
10/57
Mini Mediterranean Pizza
Total Time
19 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I was on a mini pizza kick and had already served up Mexican and Italian variations, so I opted for a Mediterranean version and came up with these. —Jenny Dubinsky, Inwood, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 pizza: 287 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 783mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
11/57
Arrabbiata Sauce with Zucchini Noodles
Total Time
45 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This popular Italian dish is flavorful and spicy. We decided to re-create one of our favorite jarred sauces and serve over zucchini pasta for a lighter, healthier meal that's naturally gluten-free. The results were amazing! —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup sauce with 1 cup zucchini noodles: 287 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 708mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 4g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
12/57
Pot Roast with Mushrooms
Total Time
6 hours 25 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Packed with wholesome veggies and tender beef, this is one company-special entree all ages will like. Serve mashed potatoes alongside to soak up every last drop of the beefy gravy. —Angie Stewart, Topeka, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked beef with 2/3 cup vegetables and 1/2 cup gravy: 310 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 89mg cholesterol, 363mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 30g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat.
13/57
Teriyaki Beef Stew
Total Time
6 hours 50 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
As they say, necessity is the mother of invention" I created this recipe because I had a package of stew meat I needed to use. I spotted the ginger beer in the fridge, and rest was history. This stew has a delicious sweet-tangy flavor. It's nice to have a different way to serve an inexpensive meal. —Leslie Simms, Sherman Oaks, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 310 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 528mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 33g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 starch.
14/57
Vermicelli Beef Stew
Total Time
8 hours 50 min
Servings
8 servings (2 qt.)
From the Recipe Creator:
I love to try new recipes for my husband and me, and also when we entertain friends and relatives. This stew is a little different from most because of the vermicelli.—Sharon Delaney-Chronis, South Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 294 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 455mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 2 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 fat.
15/57
Swiss Steak
Total Time
1 hour 45 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I was really glad to find this recipe since it's a great way to use round steak and it picks up fabulous flavor from one of my favorite herbs - tarragon. I am a homemaker with three children and enjoy cooking tasty dinners like this one for my family. —Lorna Dickau, Vanderhoof, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 385 calories, 26g fat (12g saturated fat), 116mg cholesterol, 308mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 31g protein.
16/57
Slow-Cooked Flank Steak
Total Time
4 hours 15 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My slow cooker gets lots of use, especially during the hectic summer months. I can fix this flank steak in the morning and forget about it until dinner. Serve with noodles and a tossed salad. —Michelle Armistead, Keyport, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked beef: 199 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 48mg cholesterol, 327mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
17/57
Slow-Cooker Pepper Steak
Total Time
6 hours 40 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
After a long day working in our greenhouse raising bedding plants, I enjoy coming in to this hearty slow-cooker pepper steak for supper. It's one of my favorite meals. — Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup beef mixture: 232 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 639mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
18/57
Pepper-Crusted Sirloin Roast
Total Time
2 hours 15 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Dinner guests will be surprised to hear that this festive entree calls for only five ingredients. It's the perfect choice for serving a large group.
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked beef: 146 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 72mg cholesterol, 78mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
19/57
Tender Salsa Beef
Total Time
8 hours 15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is my Mexican-style twist on comfort food. To keep it kid-friendly, use mild salsa. —Stacie Stamper, North Wilkesboro, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup beef mixture with 1/2 cup rice : 259 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 356mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat.
20/57
Beef Barley Skillet
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This versatile dish goes together fast since it's made with quick-cooking barley. You can make it with ground turkey or chicken and any color bell pepper that you have on hand. —Irene Tetreault, South Hadley, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 362 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 707mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 8g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable.
21/57
Pepper Steak
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We live on the eastern edge of the Sand Hills here in Nebraska, where most folks are ranchers. This popular pepper steak recipe is tasty as well as colorful. —Carolyn Butterfield, Atkinson, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 365 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 465mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 32g protein.
22/57
Beef Roast Dinner
Total Time
7 hours 25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Because this healthy dish is slow-cooked, you can use less expensive roasts with results as mouthwatering as the more costly cuts. Change up the veggies for variety, nutrition or to suit your tastes!—Sandra Dudley, Bemidji, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 304 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 101mg cholesterol, 533mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 36g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 starch.
23/57
Beef Tenderloin Roast
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love the simplicity of this easy beef tenderloin recipe. Olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper—just add the tenderloin and pop it in the oven. In an hour or so you’ve got an impressive main dish to feed a crowd. This leaves you with more time to visit with family and less time fussing in the kitchen. —Mary Kandell, Huron, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked beef: 294 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 82mg cholesterol, 394mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 40g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
24/57
Shredded Green Chile Beef
Total Time
7 hours 25 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This Tex-Mex pulled beef roast is tender, slightly spicy, juicy and so delicious served over mashed potatoes or rice. The beef also makes the best soft tacos you've ever had. Save any leftover pulled beef in the liquid to prevent it from drying out. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup beef mixture: 278 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 658mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
25/57
Slow-Cooker Shredded Beef Lettuce Cups
Total Time
6 hours 35 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The slow cooker is our summertime go-to for cool kitchen cooking. After swim lessons and outdoor activities, it's so nice to come back to a tasty, light dinner. If you can't find Bibb or Boston, green leaf lettuce is less sturdy but can work in a pinch. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
3 lettuce cups: 271 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 642mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch.
26/57
Beef Daube Provencal
Total Time
5 hours 30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This dish is perfect on cold winter days, especially after we have been out cutting wood or white-tail hunting. If you are lucky enough to have venison, try it here for melt-in-your-mouth goodness. —Brenda Ryan, Marshall, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup beef mixture: 237 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 651mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable.
27/57
Lettuce-Wrap Burgers
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These fresh flavors blend like a dream. It's a snap to throw the wraps together for a quick, healthy lunch. The burgers can also be served on buns if you like. —Rachelle McCalla, Atlantic, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
2 wraps: 252 calories, 15g fat (5g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 518mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat.
28/57
Steak Pinwheels
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I wow family and friends with this impressive-looking dish that's as easy to make as it is delicious. Even those who don't like spinach seem to like this dish! —Mary Ann Marino, West Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
2 each: 320 calories, 16g fat (8g saturated fat), 96mg cholesterol, 271mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 37g protein.
29/57
Chili Steak & Peppers
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Bright and loaded with flavor, this makes a delicious dish you’ll be proud to serve. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked beef with 1/3 cup pepper mixture and 1 tablespoon sauce: 265 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 491mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
30/57
Easy Cuban Picadillo
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My girlfriend gave me this delicious recipe years ago. I’ve made it ever since for family and friends, and they all love it. My daughter loves to take leftovers to school for lunch the next day. —Marie Wielgus, Wayne, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup beef mixture with 1/2 cup rice: 363 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 683mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
31/57
Chinese Pepper Steak
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Bell peppers, mushrooms and ginger provide the bulk of the flavor in this stir-fry that’s not too saucy. Hot rice makes it even better. —Billie Moss, Walnut Creek, California
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups beef mixture: 241 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 841mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1 fat.
32/57
Chocolate-Chipotle Sirloin Steak
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Looking to do something a little different with grilled sirloin? Add smoky heat and chocolaty rich color with this easy five-ingredient rub. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked beef: 246 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 477mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 37g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat.
33/57
Grilled Steak
Total Time
15 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Take steak to new flavor heights by basting your choice of cuts with an amazing garlicky blend that requires only a few minutes to fix. It will be a mouthwatering change of taste at your next outdoor gathering. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 steak: 373 calories, 17g fat (5g saturated fat), 100mg cholesterol, 1013mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 48g protein.
34/57
Tomato and Pepper Sirloin Steak
Total Time
50 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The beefy sauce and zippy peppers in this dish offer an amazing amount of flavor for under 300 calories. —Gayle Tarkowski, Traverse City, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup pepper steak mixture: 284 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 552mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1-1/2 fat.
35/57
Satisfying Beef Stew
Total Time
6 hours 30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This beef stew is so hearty and tastes even better the next day—if there are leftovers! It goes great with cornbread or any crusty loaf. —Abbey Mueller, Enid, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 330 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 680mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
36/57
Beef Cabbage Roll-Ups
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Cooking up original recipes is a hobby of mine. My version of classic cabbage rolls is delicious served over rice or noodles. —Irma Finely, Lockwood, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
2 cabbage rolls: 251 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 108mg cholesterol, 584mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 6g fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable.
37/57
Zucchini Lasagna
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We plant zucchini every year and always seem to have more than we can use! This hearty zucchini lasagna is a delicious way to use an abundant crop. —Charlotte McDaniel, Williamsville, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 273 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 725mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 fat.
38/57
Steak and Portobello Mushrooms
Total Time
20 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These tasty steaks seem special, but they are fast enough for an everyday dinner. We enjoy the mushroom-topped filets with crusty French bread, a mixed salad and a light lemon dessert. —Christel Stein, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 steak with 1/3 cup sauce: 247 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 51mg cholesterol, 369mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable.
39/57
Tortilla Pie
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I enjoy this southwestern take on lasagna because it’s not as dense or heavy as traditional layered dishes made with pasta. Our two daughters enjoy the mild flavor. —Lisa King, Caledonia, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 356 calories, 14g fat (6g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 574mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 5g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 medium-fat meat, 2 starch.
40/57
Green Pepper Steak
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
For a delicious, fast meal, try this flavorful beef dinner loaded with tomatoes and peppers. What a perfect recipe to use garden vegetables of the season! —Emmalee Thomas, Laddonia, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 259 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 647mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat.
41/57
Rump Roast Recipe
Total Time
8 hours 50 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I enjoy a good pot roast, but was tired of the same old thing. So, I began experimenting. Cooking the beef in horseradish sauce gives it a tangy flavor. Even my young children love this slow-cooker pot roast with its tender veggies and gravy. —Mimi Walker, Palmyra, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 368 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 103mg cholesterol, 464mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1.500 starch, 1 fat.
42/57
Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
One of our favorite comfort-food dinners is spaghetti and meatballs. We're crazy about this lighter, healthier version that features so many veggies. It has the same beloved flavors with more nutritious ingredients! —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 304 calories, 14g fat (6g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 590mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat, 1-1/2 starch.
43/57
Potato-Topped Ground Beef Skillet
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Compared to other ground beef skillet recipes, the depth of flavor in this recipe is amazing, and I never have leftovers when I take it to potlucks. I love recipes that I can cook and serve in the same skillet. If your butcher has chili grind beef, which is coarsely ground, go for that; it lends an extra meaty texture. —Fay Moreland, Wichita Falls, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 313 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 459mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
44/57
Slow-Cooker Beef Burgundy
Total Time
7 hours 45 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Tender cubes of beef are braised in a wine sauce with savory vegetables. I made this slow-cooker beef burgundy often when I worked full time. It’s good over noodles or mashed potatoes. —Sherri Mott, New Carlisle, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 460 calories, 29g fat (12g saturated fat), 130mg cholesterol, 663mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 37g protein.
45/57
Pot Roast with Asian Black Bean Sauce
Total Time
5 hours 55 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love stir-fry with black bean sauce. This recipe takes the delicious flavor of black bean sauce and joins it with fork-tender pot roast. —Judy Lawson, Chelsea, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 281 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 89mg cholesterol, 602mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
46/57
Southwest Steak
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Lime juice tenderizes the steak while garlic, chili powder and red pepper flakes kick things up. My husband and I came up with this together as something lighter to make on the grill. —Caroline Shively, Alexandria, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked beef: 187 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 259mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 fat.
47/57
Zippy Sirloin Steak
Total Time
35 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This so-simple spice rub is how I add smoky flavor and a nice texture to sirloin tip steak. —Lisa Finnegan, Forked River, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked beef: 160 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 73mg cholesterol, 512mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
48/57
Steak San Marino
Total Time
7 hours 15 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm a busy pastor's wife and mother of three, and this delicious, inexpensive and easy main dish helps my day run smoother! The steak is so tender and flavorful, my kids gobble it up and my husband asks for seconds. —Lael Griess, Hull, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked beef with 1/2 cup rice and 1/3 cup sauce: 286 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 368mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch.
49/57
Hamburger Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This hamburger casserole recipe is such a hit it's traveled all over the country! My mother invented the recipe in Pennsylvania, I brought it to Texas when I married, I'm still making it in California, and my daughter treats her friends to this oldie in Colorado. It's hearty, yet simple to prepare. —Helen Carmichall, Santee, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 270 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 493mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch.
50/57
Slow-Cooked Caribbean Pot Roast
Total Time
6 hours 30 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This dish is definitely a year-round recipe. Sweet potatoes, orange zest and baking cocoa are my surprise ingredients. —Jenn Tidwell, Fair Oaks, California
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked beef with 1/2 cup vegetable mixture : 278 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 453mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
51/57
Beef Orange Stir-Fry
Total Time
25 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This dinner for two is loaded with lots of flavor and color. Red pepper flakes add a little kick to the orange beef sauce, and the tender veggies add a pop of color. — Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups with 1/2 cup rice: 390 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 396mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 2 vegetable, 1 fat.
52/57
Slow-Cooker Sirloin Steak
Total Time
3 hours 50 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My family of five likes to eat beef, so this recipe is a favorite. I usually serve slow-cooker sirloin with homemade bread or rolls to soak up the tasty gravy. —Vicki Tormaschy, Dickinson, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounce-weight: 199 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 305mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable.
53/57
Juicy & Delicious Mixed Spice-Burgers
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We like trying to make "street foods" at home, perfecting recipes for dishes like gyros and these spiced burgers, known as kofta. — Anne Henry, Toronto, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 burger: 192 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 259mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
54/57
Beef Brisket Marinara
Total Time
3 hours 55 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Marinara sauce and tender meat are real comfort food. Serve this brisket with mashed potatoes, rice or pasta. —Donna Marie Ryan, Topsfield, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked beef with 1/2 cup sauce: 295 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 307mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 38g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
55/57
Dirty Rice with Ground Beef
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Dirty rice from a restaurant or box can end up having a surprisingly high amount of sodium and fat. This fast recipe is a hearty, healthy way to trim it down. —Raquel Haggard, Edmond, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 291 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 422mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable.
56/57
Cabbage Rolls
Total Time
1 hour 55 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
It was an abundance of dill in my garden that led me to try this. My family liked the taste so much that, from then on, I made my old-fashioned cabbage rolls recipe with dill. This is how to make easy cabbage rolls. – Florence Krantz, Bismarck, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
2 cabbage rolls: 260 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 694mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 18g protein.
57/57
Slow-Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Total Time
8 hours 30 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I’d wanted to make boeuf bourguignon (beef Burgundy) ever since I got one of Julia Child’s cookbooks, but I wanted to find a way to fix it in a slow cooker. My slow-cooker boeuf bourguignon is still rich, hearty and delicious, but there's no need to watch it on the stovetop or in the oven. —Crystal Jo Bruns, Iliff, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup beef mixture (calculated without noodles): 289 calories, 15g fat (5g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 350mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
