Growing up in a family that gathered every summer around a fire pit, the smoky scent of grilled meat is as nostalgic as it is irresistible. One of my earliest kitchen memories is watching my grandfather, a proud carnivore, shape ground beef by hand and slow-smoke it to juicy perfection. Inspired by those long summer evenings and the pure simplicity of the carnivore lifestyle, I’ve crafted this Smoked Carnivore Ground Beef Recipe to bring out the natural, bold flavors of quality beef—no fillers, no fuss.
This recipe is perfect for anyone following the carnivore diet or simply wanting a protein-rich dish that’s satisfying, simple, and summer-ready.
Why This Carnivore Ground Beef Recipe Is Perfect for Summer
- High in Protein: Only ground beef and a few carnivore-approved seasonings.
- Low in Carbs: Zero plant-based ingredients.
- Smoked to Perfection: Enhances the flavor naturally without any artificial marinades.
- Outdoor-Friendly: Ideal for your smoker, grill, or pellet setup.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 4 hearty portions. Scale up as needed for batch cooking or hosting!
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended for optimal fat-to-meat ratio)
- 2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional, omit for strict carnivore)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, omit for strict carnivore)
- 4 tbsp beef tallow or butter (for basting)
- Optional: Slices of aged cheddar or smoked gouda for topping (for those adding dairy)
Equipment Needed
- Smoker (pellet smoker or offset smoker preferred)
- Meat thermometer
- Cast iron skillet or grill-safe pan (for searing or basting)
Prep Time & Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes (including smoking)
- Total Time: ~1 hour 40 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Smoker
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Use hickory, mesquite, or oak wood chips for a classic smoky profile that pairs beautifully with beef.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Shape into thick patties, about 1 inch thick. Press a slight indent into the center of each patty—this helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
Step 3: Season Simply
Sprinkle sea salt, black pepper, and (if using) garlic powder and smoked paprika evenly over the patties. Let them rest at room temperature while the smoker heats.
Step 4: Smoke the Patties
Place the patties directly on the smoker grates. Smoke at 225°F for 60–75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
Step 5: Sear and Baste
Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat (you can do this directly on the smoker or stovetop). Add beef tallow or butter. Sear the patties for 1 minute per side, basting with the fat as they brown.
Optional: Add cheese in the last 30 seconds of searing if you’re including dairy.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the patties rest for 5 minutes. Serve with a side of bone broth or crispy beef bacon for a full carnivore experience.
Tips for the Best Smoked Ground Beef
- Meat Matters: Choose grass-fed beef for a more nutrient-dense meal.
- Rest Time: Never skip the resting period—it helps lock in juices.
- Strict Carnivore Tip: Skip any seasonings beyond salt for a truly clean recipe.
Variations on This Recipe
- Stuffed Carnivore Patties: Insert a cube of frozen butter or cheese into the center of each patty before smoking.
- Beef & Liver Blend: For a nutrient boost, mix in ¼ lb of ground beef liver with your ground beef.
- Bacon-Wrapped Patties: Wrap patties in strips of beef bacon before smoking for extra richness.
Why Ground Beef Is a Carnivore Staple
Ground beef is affordable, versatile, and rich in iron, B12, and healthy fats. It’s the backbone of many ground beef carnivore recipes because it cooks fast, absorbs smoke beautifully, and satisfies that primal meat craving.
FAQs About Carnivore Diet Ground Beef Recipes
Q: Can I meal prep this smoked carnivore beef?
A: Absolutely! Store patties in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for 3 months. Reheat gently in a pan.
Q: Do I need a smoker to make this recipe?
A: You can use a grill with a smoker box or a regular oven and liquid smoke as an alternative. Just keep temps low and slow.
Q: Is ground beef okay on a strict carnivore diet?
A: Yes! Just be sure to avoid any added fillers or flavorings. Stick with beef, salt, and natural fat.
Pairing Suggestions for Carnivore Eaters
- Sipping bone broth or beef tallow-based gravy
- Seared marrow bones
- Beef bacon chips for crunch
- A side of hard-boiled eggs (for a high-fat day)
External Resources
Here are a few helpful resources to support your carnivore cooking:
- Carnivore Diet Guide – Dr. Shawn Baker
- The Carnivore Cookbook by Maria Emmerich
- Ground Beef Carnivore Recipes on Reddit
- Smoking Meat Tips – SmokedBBQSource
Conclusion: Embrace the Fire, Eat Like a Carnivore
This Smoked Carnivore Ground Beef Recipe is more than just a summer meal—it’s a celebration of simplicity, smoke, and animal-based nutrition. Whether you’re new to the carnivore lifestyle or a seasoned grill master, these patties deliver flavor, satisfaction, and primal joy with every bite.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment or share your own variations with the carnivore community.