Are you a gym guy who needs a protein-rich source for his diet? Do you also want to know how much protein is in a pound of ground beef? You are in the right place.
Ground beef is a very rich source of protein. On average, 1 lb. of ground beef contains around 77.88 grams of protein. This amount may vary depending on the type of ground beef. We have discussed these types in detail below. Moreover, we have also shared all the nutrition details about this meat.
In this comprehensive article, we educate you about everything you need to know about the nutrition of ground beef. Remember to take a look at its health benefits before quitting as well.
Types of Ground Beef
There are different types of ground beef. These vary depending on their ingredients. Each of these has a different amount of protein in it. Let’s take a detailed look to understand how they are different from each other.
Extra Lean Ground Beef:
The first and most common type is lean ground beef. It is full of protein and contains the minimum fat. It has a very nutritious foundation for lean and satisfying meals. It is the best choice if you are a health-conscious individual. It can help you maintain a balanced diet.
Ground beef (70% lean and 30% fat):
The next type is a mix of lean meat and fat. It is very juicy and rich in flavor. It is the ideal choice for recipes like burgers or meatloaf. It is because the fat improves its texture and taste.
Breaded Ground Beef or Patty:
Breaded ground beef, or patty, is a very popular type of beef. It is a crispy, savory delight. Breaded ground beef or patties offer a satisfying crunch with every bite, marrying the hearty goodness of ground beef with a golden, flavorful coating for a comforting mealtime favorite.
Ground beef (85% lean and 15% fat):
Striking a balance between leanness and juiciness, this ground beef variety offers versatility in cooking while providing robust flavor, making it a go-to choice for a wide range of dishes, from tacos to spaghetti sauce.
Ground beef (95% lean and 5% fat):
Exceptionally lean yet still bursting with flavor, this ground beef option caters to health-conscious eaters seeking a low-fat protein source without compromising on taste, perfect for creating nutritious meals with a lighter touch.
Ground Beef (Cooked):
Ready to serve and savor, cooked ground beef offers convenience without sacrificing taste, providing a versatile ingredient for quick and delicious meals like tacos, chili, or pasta sauces, saving time without compromising on flavor.
Amount of Protein in a Pound of Ground Beef
An average pound of ground beef contains around 77.88g. It provides 25% of its complete nutrition. This amount of protein can change depending on the type of ground beef you are taking. For example, if you are taking lean ground beef, Even 5% lean meat will give you around 24 grams of protein. It is a nutritious food that provides you with other benefits as well. Let’s look at other nutrition facts about it.
Other Nutrition Facts
Following are the nutrition facts for a pound of ground beef. It is 80% lean and 20% fat. It will provide you with around 1152 calories.
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Total Fat | 90.72g | 116% |
| Saturated Fat | 34.8g | 174% |
| Trans Fat | 5.588g | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.363g | |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 39.722g | |
| Cholesterol | 322mg | 107% |
| Sodium | 304mg | 13% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 0g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g | 0% |
| Sugars | 0g | |
| Protein | 77.88g | |
| Vitamin D | – | |
| Calcium | 82mg | 6% |
| Iron | 8.8mg | 49% |
| Potassium | 1225mg | 26% |
| Vitamin A | 0mcg | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 0mg | 0% |
Health Benefits of Ground Beef
Ground beef is a very healthy diet. It offers several health benefits when used in moderate amounts. Let’s look at a few prominent ones among them.
- Rich in Protein: Ground beef is a good source of high-quality protein. It can help you with muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
- Nutrient Density: It contains several essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, phosphorus, selenium, and B vitamins (including B12 and niacin). These help in energy production, immune function, and red blood cell formation.
- Iron Source: Ground beef is particularly rich in heme iron. It is the type of iron that is more easily absorbed by the body compared to non-heme iron. Adequate iron intake helps prevent iron deficiency anemia. Moreover, it also supports oxygen transport in the blood.
- Supports Muscle Health: The protein content in ground beef provides amino acids as well. These are necessary for maintaining and building muscle mass. It is very beneficial for athletes, active individuals, and people looking for muscle health.
- Satiety and Weight Management: It can also promote feelings of fullness. It is because of its protein and fat content. That’s why it is also considered beneficial for weight management as well.
- Versatile Cooking Ingredient: Ground beef can be added to several dishes. It offers flexibility in meal preparation. It can be taken with nutritious ingredients like vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
- Source of Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA): Grass-fed ground beef contains higher levels of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). It is a type of healthy fat associated with potential health benefits. It can help with improved body composition, reduced inflammation, and better heart health.
Final Words
A pound of ground beef contains around 77.88 grams of protein on average. This amount can vary depending on several factors. It is a protein-rich source for diet and is often recommended to athletes.
Remember to use it in appropriate amounts, especially if you don’t perform any challenging physical activity. Moreover, people with heart disease, high blood pressure, or other severe conditions should consult with their doctor before adding it to their diet.
