Figuring out what to cook for a beloved pup shouldn’t be stressful—and honestly, it doesn’t have to be. This easy beef and eggs homemade dog food recipe is perfect for dog owners who want something healthy, simple, and affordable that also makes tails wag. It’s packed with high-quality protein, gentle on the stomach, and surprisingly easy to make with basic pantry ingredients.
And no need to overthink it. If the idea of homemade dog food feels like a whole thing, this guide is going to make it a lot more doable. Just a few ingredients, a couple of basic kitchen tools, and boom—homemade goodness that dogs devour.
Let’s get started.
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds ground beef (at least 85% lean, no added seasoning)
- 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped or diced
- 3 cups uncooked brown rice (yields approximately 6 cups cooked)
- 3 medium carrots, finely chopped or shredded
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (curly variety preferred)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or safflower oil)
Pro Tips
1. Go with lean ground beef. Too much fat can upset a dog’s stomach and cause unnecessary weight gain. Using beef that’s at least 85% lean helps avoid that issue while still delivering flavor and protein.
2. Boil the eggs in advance. Hard-boiled eggs are rich in nutrients like biotin and selenium, and they help bind the ingredients together. Preparing them ahead of time saves stress during meal prep—especially helpful on busy days.
3. Great way to involve the kids. Chopping parsley, stirring ingredients, or helping spoon the finished mixture into containers—these simple tasks are safe, quick, and great for getting children involved in caring for the family dog.
4. Use this recipe as a base. This combo works wonderfully on its own, but can also be the starting point for future add-ins like dog-safe veggies or supplements. Just keep the core simple.
5. Stick to what’s safe. Dogs can’t eat everything people can. Avoid onions, garlic, salt, and processed oils. This recipe keeps it clean and canine-friendly.
Tools Required
- Large cooking pot
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups
- Mixing bowl (optional)
- Airtight containers for storage
Substitutions and Variations
There’s a lot of flexibility in this recipe, especially when accommodating different dietary needs or preferences:
Protein swaps: Ground turkey or chicken work well in place of beef. Always cook thoroughly and ensure it’s unseasoned. For dogs with beef allergies, these are great alternatives.
Grain changes: Not a fan of brown rice? Try using cooked quinoa or oats instead. Both are gentle on digestion and full of fiber.
Add-ins for variety: Sweet potatoes, green beans, peas, zucchini, or even blueberries (in small amounts) can be added for extra nutrients and color.
Egg-free option: For dogs with egg sensitivity, a small portion of cooked lentils can provide additional protein.
Oil options: Olive oil is great, but flaxseed oil or coconut oil can also be used for their fatty acid profiles.
Make-Ahead Tips
Batch cooking this dog food is a major time-saver.
- Freezing portions: Spoon the cooked mixture into silicone molds or freezer-safe containers. Store them in single-serving sizes for convenience.
- Refrigeration: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Use airtight containers to preserve freshness.
- Meal prep days: Set aside time once a week to cook a big batch and divide it out. The extra effort upfront pays off in daily ease.
How to Make Easy Beef & Eggs Homemade Dog Food
1. Cook the rice.
Add 3 cups of uncooked brown rice to a medium saucepan with 6 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook until the rice is tender—about 35 to 40 minutes. Once done, fluff and let cool.
2. Brown the beef.
In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Break it apart into small crumbles for easier digestion. Once cooked, drain any excess fat using a spoon or colander. Return the beef to the pot.
3. Add the carrots.
Stir in the finely chopped or shredded carrots and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes, just until slightly softened.
4. Mix in the rice, eggs, and parsley.
To the pot, add the cooked rice, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and parsley. Stir everything until well combined.
5. Drizzle in the oil.
Add the olive oil last and mix thoroughly to distribute it evenly. This helps provide healthy fats that support coat and skin health.
6. Cool before serving.
Allow the mixture to cool completely before dividing into portions. Warm food straight from the stove should never be served to dogs.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Cup)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Moisture: 65% (approx.)
Note: This is a general nutritional profile. Always check with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist when planning long-term dietary changes.
Leftovers & Storage
Refrigerator storage: Lasts up to 5 days in sealed containers. Keep portions in the coldest part of the fridge.
Freezer storage: Keeps for up to 3 months. Freeze individual servings in silicone trays or small bags for easy thaw-and-serve meals.
Reheating tips: Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge. If warming is needed, heat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a few seconds—just until room temperature. Never serve hot food.
FAQs
Can this be used as a full-time dog food? Yes, but only with vet guidance. While balanced, all homemade diets should be reviewed by a professional to ensure essential vitamins and minerals are covered.
Can supplements be added? Yes. Fish oil, calcium, or joint supplements can be included, but check dosages and get approval from a vet.
Is raw meat better than cooked? Cooked meat reduces the risk of bacteria and parasites, making it a safer choice for most dogs—especially puppies, seniors, or immune-compromised pets.
How much should dogs eat per day? A common guideline is about 1 cup per 10 pounds of body weight daily, split between two meals. Activity level and age also play a role.
Is brown rice better than white rice? Brown rice has more fiber and nutrients, but white rice is easier on sensitive stomachs. Both are fine depending on the dog’s needs.
Final Thoughts
Cooking homemade dog food doesn’t have to feel intimidating or complicated. This simple beef and eggs recipe offers a wholesome, protein-packed meal that’s gentle on digestion and full of flavor—according to the tail-wag test, of course. It’s easy to prep, cost-effective, and a great way to care for a dog in a more intentional way.
Try this recipe out, make it your own, and feel free to leave a comment below sharing how it worked for your pup—or any questions that come up along the way.
Healthy, happy dogs start with what’s in the bowl. And with this recipe, it’s looking pretty good.
