Spice up your dinner routine with these delicious Mexican Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps! This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouth-watering dish with just the right kick of spice and a perfect crunch. Dive into the ultimate combination of ease and flavor with this foolproof method.
Why You'll Love This Low Carb Meal
- Quick. Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Effortless. Minimal preparation for a no-fuss cooking experience.
- Incredibly Tasty. The spicy ground beef filling combined with fresh, crisp lettuce is a match made in heaven.
With the magic of Mexican spices and flavors, you'll achieve that desirable taste without the need for complicated techniques, making it a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
Are Lettuce Wraps Healthy?
Yes, lettuce wraps are generally considered a healthy meal option. Here are some reasons why lettuce wraps can be a nutritious choice:
- Low in Carbohydrates- Using lettuce leaves instead of bread or tortillas significantly reduces the carbohydrate content, making lettuce wraps a great option for those following low-carb or keto diets.
- High in Protein- Whether you use ground beef, chicken, turkey, tofu, or beans, the filling provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall health.
- Low in Calories- Compared to traditional wraps or sandwiches, lettuce wraps are lower in calories, making them a suitable choice for those looking to manage their weight.
What Kind Of Lettuce Is Used For Lettuce Wraps?
Each type of lettuce can bring its own unique texture and flavor to lettuce wraps, allowing for customization based on personal preference and the type of filling used.
Butter lettuce is often preferred for its perfect balance of tenderness and strength, making it the most popular choice for lettuce wraps.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Ground Beef- Provides the main protein base.
- Olive Oil- Sautéing and adding richness.
- Onion and Garlic- Enhancing savory and aromatic qualities.
- Tomato Paste- Thickening and adding umami.
- Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika, Oregano- Contributing to the spicy, earthy, and complex flavor profile.
- Salt and Black Pepper- Seasoning and enhancing overall taste.
- Water- Creating a saucy consistency.
- Butter Lettuce Leaves- Serving as the fresh, crisp base.
- Avocado, Tomatoes, Red Onion- Adding creaminess, juiciness, and crunch.
- Cilantro and Lime Wedges- Providing freshness and a zesty finish.
How To Make Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps
- Prepare the Filling. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Cook the Beef. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Seasonings. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add water to the skillet and mix well. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the flavors meld together and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Prepare the Vegetables. While the beef is cooking, wash and separate the butter lettuce leaves. Dice the avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
- Assemble the Wraps. To serve, place a spoonful of the spicy ground beef mixture in the center of a lettuce leaf. Top with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
- Garnish and Serve. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips And Tricks
Making delicious Mexican Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps involves more than just the right ingredients; it’s about technique and a few kitchen tricks to ensure they turn out flavorful and satisfying. Here’s a comprehensive guide to perfecting them:
- Use Fresh Ingredients. Fresh vegetables and herbs make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
- Season Well. Make sure to taste the filling and adjust the seasonings as needed. A well-seasoned filling is key to delicious wraps.
- Crisp Lettuce. Use fresh, crisp lettuce leaves for the best texture. Butter lettuce is ideal due to its tender yet sturdy leaves.
Variations
Mexican Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps are a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs. Here are some creative variations on the classic:
- Vegetarian-. Substitute the beef with black beans or a mix of beans and corn for a vegetarian version.
- Chicken- Use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Extra Spicy- Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
What Goes Well With Lettuce Wraps
Mexican Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps pair wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some great options:
- Mexican Rice- A classic side that complements the bold flavors of the wraps.
- Guacamole- Adds a creamy, rich element that pairs well with the spicy beef.
- Pico de Gallo- Adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the savory meat filling.
- Black Beans- A simple, protein-packed side that enhances the meal.
How Long Do They Last?
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Can You Freeze Them?
Yes! Freeze the cooked and cooled filling in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
More Low Carb Meals
- Big Mac Salad
- Instant Pot Butter Chicken
- Keto Chicken Tenders
- Gochujang Chicken
- Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa
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Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- 8 Butter Lettuce Leaves
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 2 tbsp Water
- 1/4 tsp Chili Powder
- 1/2 tsp Cumin
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Oregano
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 1 Avocado, sliced
- 1 cup Red Onion, diced
- 1 cup Tomato, diced
- Lime wedges, for garnish
- Cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Cook the Beef. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Seasonings. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add water to the skillet and mix well. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the flavors meld together and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Prepare the Vegetables. While the beef is cooking, wash and separate the butter lettuce leaves. Dice the avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
- Assemble the Wraps. To serve, place a spoonful of the spicy ground beef mixture in the center of a lettuce leaf. Top with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
- Garnish and Serve. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
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Nutrition
Don't forget to check out my other Keto cookbooks.
Keto Instant Pot, Keto Fat Bombs, Sweets, & Treats, and Easy keto in 30 minutes.
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