Ground Beef Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful dish that brings together tender beef and vibrant vegetables in a savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes it a family favorite, and it can easily be customized to suit your tastes.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll absolutely love this Ground Beef Stir Fry for its incredible flavor and versatility. The dish is packed with protein and fresh veggies, making it a healthy choice for dinner. It only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for those hectic evenings. Plus, it fits well into many diets, whether you’re looking for a low-carb option or simply a nutritious meal to fuel your day.
Tips and Tricks
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and garlic in advance to save time during cooking.
- Use High Heat: Stir frying requires high heat to achieve that signature sear. Make sure your pan is hot before adding the beef.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the beef and veggies.
- Flavor Boost: Add a touch of sesame oil at the end for added depth and aroma.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the ground beef a day in advance to intensify the flavors. Chopped vegetables can also be prepped and stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Cooked stir fry can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a great option for meal prep.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swaps: Try chicken, pork, or tofu instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Variations: Use broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini depending on the season.
- Spice it Up: Add chili paste or sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Sauce Alternatives: Swap out soy sauce for tamari for a gluten-free option, or use coconut aminos for a lighter flavor.
How to Serve
Serve your Ground Beef Stir Fry over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. For an authentic touch, serve it in a deep bowl with a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a chilled glass of Riesling for a refreshing contrast, or try a light beer for a casual meal. Complementary side dishes include crispy spring rolls or a simple cucumber salad. For dessert, consider a light sorbet or fruit salad to cleanse the palate.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To freeze, place the stir fry in a freezer-safe container and consume within three months. Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
You will need a large skillet or wok for stir frying. A wooden spoon or spatula will be helpful for stirring. If you don’t have a wok, a large frying pan works just as well.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this dish vegan, substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or tofu. For a dairy-free version, ensure your sauces are free from any hidden dairy ingredients. Use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos for those avoiding gluten. Always check labels for allergens.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, add asparagus and snap peas for a fresh crunch. Summer is perfect for bell peppers and zucchini, while fall can incorporate carrots and broccoli. In winter, use hearty vegetables like kale or cabbage for a warming twist.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen ground beef? Yes, just ensure it is completely thawed before cooking.
- What can I substitute for soy sauce? Try tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative.
- How long should I cook the beef? Ground beef typically cooks in about 5-7 minutes.
- Can I make this dish spicy? Absolutely! Add chili flakes or sriracha to taste.
How To Make Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ground Beef Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful dish that brings together tender beef and vibrant vegetables in a savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Add marinated ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Push the beef to one side of the pan. Add mixed vegetables to the other side and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine the beef and vegetables, stirring in oyster sauce and sesame oil. If using cornstarch, mix it with a tablespoon of water and stir into the mixture.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is cooked through and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 447Total Fat 30gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 18gCholesterol 101mgSodium 981mgCarbohydrates 10gFiber 3gSugar 2gProtein 34g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef Stir Fry is not just a delicious meal; it’s a canvas for your culinary creativity. With its quick cooking time and the ability to customize ingredients, this dish is a fantastic solution for busy weeknights or a fun weekend meal. Enjoy exploring the flavors and variations as you make this recipe your own!
