Vegan Ground Beef

This vegan ground beef recipe is super easy to make and can be used as a substitute for meat in many recipes, like tacos, casseroles, soups, and more. High in protein, nut-free, and easily made oil-free.

A big thing that deters people from going vegetarian or vegan is “giving up meat.” What if you totally didn’t have to? Vegan meat is delicious and cruelty-free!

One of the easiest meats to replace with a vegetarian version is beef. There are tons of store-bought options available – like Impossible Burger, Beyond Meat, Trader Joe’s, Aldi, and Gardein. You can also make your own homemade vegan ground beef substitute, which is what we are exploring today.

The key to making the best ground meat is getting the texture and flavor just right. This recipe hits both marks!

Ingredients

There are two main components to this recipe: TVP (textured vegetable protein) and the marinade to make it taste meaty.

The detailed recipe with measurements is in the recipe card at the end of the post.

• Textured vegetable protein: Also known as TVP. This is the base for our vegan ground beef. I buy mine on Amazon.
• Vegetable broth
• Tomato paste
• Soy sauce
• Vegan Worcestershire sauce: Some brands contain fish like anchovies, so read the label! Here is a homemade version that is vegan. If you’re out of options, you can just substitute this ingredient with more soy sauce.
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Smoked paprika
• Black pepper
• Cooking oil

What is TVP?

TVP, short for textured vegetable protein, is a nutrition soy product often used as a meat substitute. The texture makes it a great alternative for ground meat in many recipes. It is made from a defatted soy flour mixture and dehydrated.

You may also hear this ingredient referred to as soy meat or textured soy protein. It is low in fat, high in protein, and naturally gluten-free.

Instructions

This vegan ground meat takes about 20 minutes to make and is so easy. You can find the full, printable recipe in the recipe card below.

Storage

Q: How long does this keep in the fridge?
A: Up to 5 days! Which makes it perfect for meal prepping. Make this recipe at the beginning of the week and enjoy it throughout.

Q: Can I freeze this TVP ground beef?
A: Yes! Freeze in a freezer bag or an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Substitutions

• Soy-free: Because the main ingredient for this recipe is soy-based, it cannot be made soy-free. Try this lentil taco meat for an alternative. Some store-bought versions are also soy-free.
• Oil-free: Easy! Simply sauté without the oil. Using a good non-stick pan is best in this case.
• For tacos: Add 2-3 teaspoons of taco seasoning to make this vegan ground beef into taco meat! Enjoy in a vegan taco salad.

Recipes Using Vegan Ground Beef

Some of these recipes call for ground meat outright, and some of them can use it as a substitute for other ingredients.

• Vegan Nachos (use instead of or with the black beans)
• Vegan Shepherd’s Pie
• Vegan Crunchwrap (use instead of the lentils)
• Veggie Black Bean Enchiladas (use instead of or with black beans)