Ground sirloin is a versatile and lean cut of beef that can be used in a variety of dishes. It has a rich, beefy flavor that makes it a great choice for burgers, meatloaf, tacos, chili, and more. Here is a look at what makes ground sirloin a good option and some of the best uses for it.
What is ground sirloin?
Ground sirloin comes from the sirloin primal cut, which is located on the back behind the rib cage of the cow. Sirloin is less tender than cuts like ribeye or tenderloin, but it has excellent flavor. Trimming off the fat and connective tissues and grinding the meat breaks down the toughness, resulting in a lean, moderately tender ground beef.
Ground sirloin typically contains around 90% lean meat and 10% fat. This leanness makes it a healthier choice than ground chuck or ground beef, which often contain 15-20% fat. The low fat content means ground sirloin burgers and other dishes will shrink less during cooking. It also has a fine, loose texture that incorporates seasonings well.
Benefits of using ground sirloin
Here are some of the benefits of cooking with ground sirloin:
- Leaner than other ground beef cuts – With around 90% lean meat, ground sirloin is lower in fat and calories than fattier options like chuck or ground beef.
- Beefy, rich flavor – The sirloin has excellent beef flavor that comes through nicely when ground.
- Versatile – Ground sirloin can be shaped into patties, meatballs, loafs and more, making it usable for many dishes.
- Moderately tender texture – Grinding helps break down the meat, giving it a tender bite.
- Holds up well to cooking – The leanness of ground sirloin prevents excessive shrinking during cooking.
- Incorporates seasonings – The loose grind absorbs spices, herbs, sauces and other flavorings.
- Economical – Sirloin is an affordable primal cut, so the ground version costs less than fancier cuts like filet mignon.
Best uses for ground sirloin
Here are some of the top ways to use ground sirloin:
Burgers
Ground sirloin makes delicious burgers that are juicier, beefier and healthier than fast food burgers. They hold their shape well when cooked but remain tender. Create patties seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic and other spices. Cook on the grill or stove and serve on buns with favorite toppings.
Meatballs
The fine texture of ground sirloin combines with seasonings exceptionally well in meatballs. Add breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, Parmesan and other ingredients to the beef. Form into balls and bake or simmer in your favorite sauce.
Meatloaf
For a classic comfort food dish, make meatloaf with ground sirloin. Mix with onion, bell pepper, bread crumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup and any other additions. Bake the loaf until cooked through and glazed with ketchup or another sauce.
Tacos
Spiced ground sirloin makes flavorful tacos or taco filling. Cook with taco seasoning or cumin, chili powder and other spices. Stuff in tortillas or serve over chips for tacos. Top with shredded lettuce, tomato, cheese, salsa and more.
Chili
Hearty chili is easy to make with ground sirloin. Brown the beef with onions and garlic. Add beans, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin and other spices. Simmer until thickened. Garnish with shredded cheddar, sour cream, etc.
Lasagna
For a meaty lasagna, use a mixture of ground sirloin and sausage as the filling layers. Cook with tomato sauce, red wine, garlic, herbs and spices. Layer the meat sauce with lasagna noodles, ricotta, mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake until bubbling.
Pasta sauce
Cook crumbled ground sirloin into any tomato-based pasta sauce. Use in Bolognese, marinara, arrabbiata, tomato vodka cream sauce and more. Toss with spaghetti, rigatoni, ziti or your favorite pasta.
Stuffed peppers
Fill bell peppers with a mixture of cooked ground sirloin, rice, onion, garlic, tomato and spices. Top with cheese and bake until the pepper softens and filling is heated through.
Cabbage rolls
For an easy stuffed cabbage recipe, use ground sirloin mixed with cooked rice, tomato, garlic and spices. Roll in steamed cabbage leaves, top with sauce and bake.
Shepherd’s pie
Make this comfort food classic with ground sirloin as the base. Cook with onion, carrot, peas, thyme and Worcestershire sauce. Top with mashed potatoes and bake until bubbly and browned.
Sloppy Joes
Ground sirloin sautéed with onion, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire makes tasty sloppy Joe filling. Pile on hamburger buns and serve with pickles.
Beef and broccoli
For a healthier take on beef and broccoli, use ground sirloin instead of flank steak. Stir fry with broccoli florets, garlic, ginger and soy sauce.
Skillet dishes
Cook crumbled ground sirloin right in the skillet for quick one-pan meals. Use in dishes like fajitas, stir fries, skillet lasagne and more. Pair with veggies and seasonings of choice.
Tips for cooking with ground sirloin
Follow these tips for the best results when cooking with ground sirloin:
- Don’t overcook – Cook just until no longer pink to prevent drying out. Use a meat thermometer to check 160°F internal temperature.
- Keep some fat – Mixing in a little bacon or ground chuck will add moistness.
- Partially freeze before grinding – Chilling firms up the meat so it grinds better.
- Hand mix gently – Over-mixing develops gluten and toughens meat. Mix just until blended.
- Let patties rest before cooking – This helps them hold their shape better on the grill or in the pan.
- Sear before braising – Browning adds flavor for stews, chilis, pasta sauces, etc.
- Add a binder – Egg, breadcrumbs or panko helps meatballs and loaves hold together.
Ground Sirloin Nutrition
One of the benefits of ground sirloin is its nutritional profile. Here is how 3 ounces (85g) of 90% lean ground sirloin stacks up (1):
| Calories | 164 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 7g |
| Saturated fat | 3g |
| Protein | 21g |
| Iron | 2mg |
As you can see, ground sirloin is low in calories and fat, but high in protein and iron. The protein helps keep you full, while the iron supports healthy blood cells.
Ground Sirloin vs. Ground Beef
How does ground sirloin compare to regular ground beef? Here are some key differences (2):
- Fat content – Ground sirloin contains around 10% fat versus 15-20% for regular ground beef.
- Calories – Ground sirloin has 164 calories in a 3 ounce serving compared to 216 calories for regular 80% lean ground beef.
- Cholesterol – Ground sirloin has 54mg cholesterol per 3 ounce serving, versus 70mg for regular ground beef.
- Sodium – Ground sirloin has 66mg sodium versus 75mg per 3 ounces of regular ground beef.
- Price – Ground sirloin is slightly more expensive than regular ground beef, costing around $5-6 per pound versus $3-4 per pound.
- Uses – Both can be used for burgers, meatballs, tacos, etc. But ground sirloin may be better for dishes where a lean texture is preferred.
Conclusion
Ground sirloin is a smart choice for everyday cooking due to its great flavor, lean nutrition profile, and versatility. It performs well in burgers, meatloaf, pasta sauce, tacos, chili, and many other dishes. Just be careful not to overcook it to keep it tender and juicy. With proper preparation, ground sirloin can deliver delicious results at an affordable price point.