The most affordable carnivore protein. These recipes focus on ground beef (80/20 or 70/30) for optimal fat-to-protein ratios. Most meals under $3 per serving.
Per pound conventional
Protein per 4oz serving
Most recipes cook time
Ground beef is the foundation of budget-friendly carnivore eating. At $4-6 per pound for conventional and $8-10 for grass-fed, it's significantly cheaper than steaks while providing the same high-quality protein and nutrients.
The 80/20 ratio (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal because it gives you enough fat for satiety and flavor without being overly greasy. You won't need to add extra fat, making it perfect for beginners.
Want to learn more about ground beef?
Our comprehensive guide covers fat ratios, grass-fed vs grain-fed, bulk buying tips, storage methods, and more.
Read the Complete GuideBudget-friendly, high-protein meals featuring ground beef as the star ingredient
The secret to delicious ground beef is high heat and patience. Let it sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a crust before breaking it up. This creates deeper flavor through the Maillard reaction.
Don't drain the fat! That rendered fat contains fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and adds incredible flavor. If you have excess, save it in a jar for cooking other meals.
Learn everything about buying, storing, and cooking ground beef for the carnivore diet. Includes fat ratio guides, bulk buying strategies, and meal prep tips.
Read the Complete Guide