Wagyu Ground Beef Recipe

Chef Ellie

Discover the ultimate Wagyu ground beef recipe for juicy burgers, tacos, and more. Elevate your meals with rich, tender Wagyu in every bite!

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American, Japanese-inspired

Servings 4 slices

Calories 350 kcal

Wagyu ground beef 1 lb – The star of the show! For the juiciest, most flavorful beef, make sure you choose high-quality Wagyu ground beef. The fat marbling in the meat will ensure a tender, juicy bite.
Salt and pepper – Simple yet crucial for enhancing the natural flavor of the Wagyu beef. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste, but a pinch of salt and fresh cracked pepper is all you need to start.
Olive oil 1-2 tbsp – For searing or sautéing, a little olive oil will help get that perfect crispy exterior on your burger patties or meatballs. It also helps prevent sticking.

Garlic 2 cloves, minced – A burst of garlic flavor adds richness and depth to your dish. You can also use garlic powder if you're short on fresh garlic.
Onion 1 small, finely chopped – Caramelized onions pair beautifully with the savory Wagyu beef, adding a touch of sweetness to balance the richness.
Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary – If you’re looking to add an herbaceous note, a bit of fresh parsley or thyme can really elevate your Wagyu beef dishes.
Cheese optional, for burgers or meatballs – Cheddar, Swiss, or Gouda are great choices if you want to create a cheesy Wagyu burger. Melt it on top just before finishing for extra indulgence!

Burger buns for burgers – Soft, toasted buns will give your Wagyu burgers the perfect base. Brioche or pretzel buns are fantastic for an elevated burger experience.
Taco shells for tacos – If you're using Wagyu ground beef for tacos, choose soft tortillas or crispy shells depending on your preference. Add your favorite taco toppings like lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
Vegetables for stir-fries – Bell peppers, onions, and snap peas work wonderfully in a stir-fry with Wagyu beef. They add color, crunch, and fresh flavors to complement the beef.

Start by gently seasoning your Wagyu ground beef.
In a mixing bowl, combine the beef with salt and pepper. You can also add minced garlic, chopped onion, or fresh herbs at this stage for added flavor.
Tip: Be careful not to overwork the beef while mixing. Overhandling can make it dense. Gently mix and shape the meat into patties, meatballs, or crumble it for a stir-fry.

Depending on your preferred cooking method, it’s time to heat up your cooking surface:
For burgers: Preheat a grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
For meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a touch of olive oil for a crispy golden exterior.
For stir-fry: Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil to prevent sticking.

Now it’s time for the fun part—cooking!
For Burgers: Place your Wagyu burger patties on the grill or in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for a medium-rare burger (or longer, depending on your preferred doneness). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for well-done.
For Meatballs: Place the meatballs in the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through.
For Stir-Fry: Add your crumbled Wagyu ground beef to the hot skillet. Stir occasionally, breaking the meat into smaller pieces, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and fully cooked.

If you're making burgers or meatballs, let your cooked Wagyu beef rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your dish even juicier and more flavorful. Tip: If making a burger, rest it under a tent of foil to keep the heat in.

For an extra layer of flavor, you can melt cheese on your Wagyu burger or drizzle a savory sauce on your stir-fry. Try melting Swiss cheese for a creamy touch, or add a rich mushroom sauce to your meatballs for an elevated twist.

Nutrition Information (per serving):