Beef Lettuce Wraps are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional wraps, offering a low-carb alternative that is both healthy and satisfying.
Ground beef is seasoned with aromatic spices and stir-fried to perfection, then wrapped in fresh, crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing, light meal.
These wraps are versatile enough to be enjoyed as a main dish or an appetizer for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a keto-friendly option, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, Beef Lettuce Wraps hit all the right notes with their savory filling and crunchy texture.
Why You’ll Love Beef Lettuce Wraps
These Beef Lettuce Wraps are more than just a delicious meal – they’re a healthy and easy-to-make option that works for various dietary needs.
The combination of savory, tender beef with fresh, crisp lettuce makes each bite satisfying while keeping the calories low. Here’s why they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation:
- Low-carb and Keto-friendly: Perfect for those on a low-carb or keto diet, Beef Lettuce Wraps provide a flavorful option without the carbs of traditional wraps or buns.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, these wraps are a great go-to meal for busy weekdays or when you need a healthy, filling option in a hurry.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings, such as shredded carrots, cilantro, or a spicy peanut sauce to elevate the flavor and texture.
- Packed with Protein: With lean ground beef as the base, these wraps offer a protein-rich meal that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Whether you’re preparing them for a busy lunch or a quick weeknight dinner, Beef Lettuce Wraps will quickly become a favorite for their deliciously savory taste and light yet filling nature.
Ingredients List
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon chili paste or Sriracha (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lettuce Wraps:
- 12 large lettuce leaves (butter lettuce, iceberg, or romaine work well)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional for added crunch and color)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Preparation
Before you begin cooking, gather all your ingredients and prepare them for an easy and quick cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Prepare the lettuce: Gently wash the lettuce leaves, removing any excess water. Pat them dry with a paper towel or let them air dry. Set aside the largest, most intact leaves for wrapping the beef.
- Prep the vegetables: Mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and chop the green onions. If using, shred the carrots and set aside for garnish or adding to the wrap.
- Measure the sauces: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste (if using), and sugar. Stir to combine and set aside.
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the beef:
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed. - Add aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the beef. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not burnt. - Season the beef:
Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the beef and stir to coat. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce has slightly thickened and the beef is well-seasoned. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt or pepper, if necessary. - Assemble the wraps:
Take the large lettuce leaves and spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture into the center of each leaf. Top with shredded carrots, green onions, and fresh cilantro, if desired. Squeeze a little lime juice over the top for a fresh, zesty kick.
Tips for the Perfect Beef Lettuce Wraps
- Use fresh, crispy lettuce: Choose lettuce with sturdy, whole leaves like butter lettuce or iceberg. These varieties are perfect for holding the beef and toppings without tearing. Be sure to select large, intact leaves to wrap easily.
- Control the spice level: Adjust the chili paste or Sriracha based on your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder flavor, skip the chili paste or reduce the amount. For a spicy kick, increase the amount to your liking.
- Customize your fillings: Beef lettuce wraps are highly customizable. Add more crunch with thinly sliced bell peppers or cucumber, or throw in some sautéed mushrooms for added flavor. You can also swap the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or tofu for a different twist.
- Make it ahead: The beef filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat before serving and assemble the wraps when ready to eat.
- Add extra toppings: For additional texture and flavor, consider adding a drizzle of peanut sauce, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a handful of chopped peanuts.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Beef Lettuce Wraps is packed with protein and flavor while being low in carbs. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (2 wraps):
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
Conclusion
Beef Lettuce Wraps are a delightful and healthy meal option that’s quick to make, full of flavor, and highly versatile.
Whether you’re looking for a low-carb lunch or a protein-packed dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes.
The tender, seasoned beef combined with crisp lettuce creates the perfect balance of textures, and the optional toppings allow for endless customization.
Plus, it’s an excellent option for meal prepping and serving at parties.
Try these Beef Lettuce Wraps today and enjoy a fresh, satisfying meal that’s as fun to eat as it is to prepare!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The seasoning will work well with either protein.
2. How do I store leftover Beef Lettuce Wraps?
Store the beef mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate to maintain their crispness. Reheat the beef mixture before serving.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the beef filling can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it before serving and assemble the wraps when you’re ready to eat.
4. What kind of lettuce is best for wraps?
Butter lettuce, iceberg lettuce, or romaine lettuce are all great choices for wraps. They have sturdy, wide leaves that are perfect for holding the filling.
5. Can I make these wraps spicier?
Absolutely! If you enjoy heat, you can add extra chili paste, Sriracha, or even some sliced fresh chili peppers to the beef mixture for an added kick.
Beef Lettuce Wraps
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet or Wok
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 Small bowl (for sauce mixture)
- 1 Knife for chopping vegetables
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef preferably lean
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil or sesame oil
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger grated
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon Hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Chili paste or Sriracha optional, for heat
- 1/2 teaspoon Sugar optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 large Lettuce leaves butter lettuce, iceberg, or romaine
- 1/2 cup Shredded carrots optional
- 1/4 cup Chopped green onions for garnish
- Fresh cilantro leaves optional, for garnish
- Lime wedges optional, for serving
Instructions
Cook the beef:
- Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add aromatics:
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Season the beef:
- Add the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste (if using), and sugar to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Assemble the wraps:
- Take a large lettuce leaf and spoon a portion of the beef mixture into the center. Top with shredded carrots, chopped green onions, and cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top if desired.
Serve:
- Arrange the wraps on a platter and serve immediately.
Notes
- Storing leftovers: The beef filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate to maintain their crispness.
- Make ahead: Prepare the beef filling in advance and reheat before serving. Assemble the wraps just before eating.
- Customizable: Feel free to add extra veggies, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for additional texture and flavor. You can also switch up the protein by using ground chicken, turkey, or tofu for a different twist.
- Lettuce tips: Choose lettuce leaves that are wide, sturdy, and free from holes for easy wrapping. Butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce works best.
