Understanding What is the Nutritional Value of Ground Sirloin?

October 21, 2025 •

3 min read

Ground sirloin is typically 90% lean and 10% fat, making it one of the healthiest ground beef options available. Understanding what is the nutritional value of ground sirloin can help health-conscious individuals build meals rich in protein and essential nutrients while minimizing saturated fat intake.

Quick Summary

Ground sirloin is a lean protein source derived from the sirloin primal cut of beef. It offers high-quality protein, essential B vitamins, iron, and zinc, with a lower fat and calorie count compared to standard ground beef varieties. Its leanness makes it a solid choice for healthier diets, though proper cooking is key to maintaining moisture.

Key Points

High-Protein Source: Ground sirloin is packed with protein, offering around 22-24 grams per 4-ounce serving, which is vital for muscle growth and repair.
Lean and Lower in Fat: With a typical 90/10 lean-to-fat ratio, ground sirloin is a leaner, lower-fat option compared to ground chuck or standard ground beef.
Rich in Essential Nutrients: It provides key vitamins like B12, B6, and niacin, as well as crucial minerals such as iron and zinc.
Versatile for Saucy Dishes: Its mild flavor and leanness make it ideal for dishes where moisture is added, like chili, pasta sauces, or lasagna, preventing dryness.
Best for Calorie Management: Due to its lower fat and calorie content, it's a good protein choice for those managing their weight.
Prone to Drying Out: The low-fat content requires specific cooking methods, such as adding moisture or not overcooking, to maintain a desirable texture.

What is Ground Sirloin?

Ground sirloin is ground beef sourced from the sirloin primal cut of a cow, known for its leanness and beefy flavor. This type of ground beef typically has a 90% lean to 10% fat ratio, distinguishing it from other ground beef varieties. Due to its low-fat content, it can be less juicy and may dry out if not cooked carefully.

A Deep Dive into Ground Sirloin's Nutritional Profile

A 4-ounce (113g) serving of cooked ground sirloin (90/10) offers significant nutritional benefits:

Calories: Around 196-200 calories.
Protein: Provides 22-24 grams of complete protein, essential for muscle health.
Total Fat: Contains about 10-11 grams of fat, with less saturated fat than other ground beef types.
Vitamins: A good source of B vitamins, including B12, B6, niacin (B3), and riboflavin (B2), important for energy and nerve function.
Minerals: Supplies vital minerals:
- Iron: Contains heme iron, which is easily absorbed.
- Zinc: Supports immune function and healing.
- Selenium: Acts as an antioxidant and aids thyroid function.
- Phosphorus: Crucial for bone health.

Ground Sirloin vs. Other Ground Beef Varieties

Here is a comparison of different ground beef types based on lean-to-fat ratio:


Feature	Ground Sirloin (90/10)	Ground Round (85/15)	Ground Chuck (80/20)	Standard Ground Beef (70/30)
Fat Content	Very low (approx. 10%)	Low (approx. 15%)	Moderate (approx. 20%)	High (approx. 30%)
Calories	Lower	Moderate	Higher	Highest
Flavor	Mild and beefy; can be dry if overcooked	Moderate beef flavor	Rich, robust, and juicy	Very rich, enhanced by high fat
Texture	Chewier due to low fat	Versatile for various dishes	Soft and tender	Softest and most tender
Best for	Saucy dishes like chili or bolognese; quick cooking	Tacos, meatloaf, or other seasoned meats	Burgers, meatballs, and meatloaf that benefit from moisture	Burgers, chili, and rich sauces where fat adds flavor
Price	Most expensive due to cut	Moderate	Moderate	Least expensive

Health Benefits and Considerations

Ground sirloin offers health benefits, including high-quality protein for muscle support and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. Its high protein content can aid weight management by promoting fullness. With less saturated fat and cholesterol than other ground beef, it can be a heart-healthier option in moderation. Healthy cooking methods like grilling or baking are recommended to avoid excessive fat.

Cooking Tips for Lean Ground Sirloin

To prevent ground sirloin from drying out due to its low fat content, cook on a hot pan without overcrowding. Draining any accumulated fat or liquid with a slotted spoon is helpful, especially in saucy dishes. Adding a binder like breadcrumbs or egg can keep burgers or meatloaf moist, while simmering in broth or sauce is effective for dishes like chili or bolognese.

Conclusion

Ground sirloin is a nutritious and lean beef option, providing high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals with less fat and calories than other ground beef. While it's typically more expensive and has a milder flavor, its leanness makes it suitable for various dishes, particularly those with added moisture like chili or sauces. Proper cooking methods are key to enjoying its benefits and taste as part of a balanced diet.

For more detailed nutritional information, consult a reliable source like the USDA database(https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content?contenttypeid=76&contentid=23562-3).

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, ground sirloin is generally healthier than standard ground beef because it has a significantly lower fat and calorie content. Ground sirloin is typically around 90% lean, while regular ground beef can range from 70% to 80% lean.

Ground sirloin typically has a 90% lean to 10% fat ratio. This means a 4-ounce serving of cooked ground sirloin contains approximately 10 to 11 grams of fat.

To prevent ground sirloin from drying out, cook it quickly over medium-high heat and use it in saucy dishes like chili or bolognese, where added liquid will keep it moist. For burgers or meatloaf, use a binding agent like a small amount of breadcrumbs or egg.

While all beef is a good source of protein, ground sirloin is richer in protein per calorie and per gram of fat. For example, a 4-ounce serving of 90/10 ground sirloin can have slightly more protein than a similar-sized serving of a fattier cut.

Ground sirloin is best for dishes that incorporate added moisture, such as sauces, soups, or chilis. It is also suitable for quick-cooking recipes like seasoned crumbles for tacos or sloppy joes.

Yes, ground sirloin has a milder, less rich flavor compared to fattier ground beef options. This is because a higher fat content often adds to the overall richness and flavor of the meat.

Yes, ground sirloin is typically more expensive than ground beef, ground chuck, and ground round. This is because it comes from the more desirable and leaner sirloin cut of the cow.