This ground beef stir fry is quick, flavorful, and packed with tender beef and crisp veggies. With a savory sauce and easy prep, it’s perfect for a fast, satisfying meal any night of the week. Serve it over rice or noodles and enjoy a delicious, homemade dinner in minutes!
Key Benefits of ground beef stir fry
- Quick & Easy: This ground beef stir fry comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with Flavor: A savory stir fry sauce with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce brings bold, delicious taste to every bite.
- Nutritious & Satisfying: Loaded with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this dish is both healthy and filling.
- Customizable: Use your favorite veggies, adjust the spice level, or swap the protein to make it your own.
- One-Pan Simplicity: Minimal cleanup means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Ingredients for ground beef stir fry
Ground beef – The main ingredient that provides protein and flavor. Lean ground beef is healthier, but fattier cuts add richness.
Soy sauce – Adds a salty, umami flavor. Low-sodium versions are available for a lighter option.
Garlic – A key aromatic that boosts the flavor with a savory punch.
Ginger – Fresh ginger gives the dish a zesty, aromatic kick.
Vegetables – A mix of bell peppers, onions, and broccoli adds freshness and crunch. You can swap in your favorite veggies.
Sesame oil – Adds a nutty, aromatic flavor that’s essential in stir fries, but can be replaced with olive oil.
Cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce and give it a glossy texture.
Brown sugar – Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with sweetness, enhancing the dish’s flavor.
Rice vinegar – Provides a tangy acidity that brightens the overall flavor.
Instructions for ground beef stir fry
Prepare the ingredients:
Start by chopping the bell peppers and broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and slice the green onions. Set everything aside so it’s ready to go.
Cook the ground beef:
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter.
Sauté the garlic and ginger:
Push the beef to the side of the pan, then add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir them around for about 1 minute until fragrant. This step infuses the oil with flavor, giving the dish that authentic stir-fry taste.
Add the vegetables:
Toss in the sliced bell peppers and broccoli. Stir everything together and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender yet still crisp. You want them to stay vibrant and full of texture.
Make the sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch slurry. Pour this sauce mixture into the pan, stirring to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. If you want a bit of spice, now’s the time to sprinkle in the red pepper flakes.
Serve:
Once the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the stir fry over rice or noodles, and top with chopped green onions for a fresh, crunchy finish.
Pro Tips for ground beef stir fry
Use lean ground beef: For a healthier version of this ground beef stir fry, opt for lean ground beef or even ground turkey. This reduces the fat content while still maintaining that savory beef flavor.
Don’t overcook the veggies: To keep your stir fry crispy and fresh, avoid overcooking the vegetables. Aim for a quick sauté so they retain their color and crunch, which adds both texture and nutrition to the dish.
Customize with your favorite veggies: Feel free to swap out the bell peppers and broccoli for other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms. Stir fry is incredibly versatile, so use what you have on hand!
Adjust the sauce: If you prefer a stronger flavor, increase the soy sauce or add a little fish sauce for depth. If you like things sweeter, a small drizzle of honey or brown sugar can balance the saltiness.
Prep in advance: To make dinner even quicker, chop your veggies and mix your sauce ingredients ahead of time. This cuts down on cooking time and helps you get dinner on the table faster.
Make it spicier: Want some extra heat? Add more red pepper flakes or a few splashes of sriracha to turn up the spice level. Just be cautious, as the heat can build quickly!
Variations
This ground beef stir fry is a great base for many tasty variations. You can easily adjust it to match your dietary preferences or whatever ingredients you have in your fridge. Here are a few ideas to mix things up:
Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of beef, try using chicken breast, tofu, or even shrimp. These options cook quickly and absorb the stir fry sauce beautifully.
Go for a different sauce: Experiment with sauces like teriyaki for a sweeter twist or hoisin sauce for a more complex, rich flavor. You could even use a spicy peanut sauce for a nutty kick!
Add more veggies: Mix it up by adding zucchini, baby corn, or snap peas to your stir fry. These veggies add extra texture and nutrients to the dish.
Make it a spicy stir fry: Crank up the heat by adding more red pepper flakes, a dash of sriracha, or a few jalapeño slices for an extra kick.
Serve it different ways: Instead of serving over rice or noodles, try using quinoa for a protein-packed alternative or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Serving Suggestions for ground beef stir fry
This ground beef stir fry is versatile and pairs well with several delicious sides. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal and make it even more satisfying:
Serve over rice or noodles: The classic pairing for stir fry is steamed white rice or noodles. Both options soak up the savory sauce, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. For a lighter option, try brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
Top with fresh herbs: To add a burst of freshness, sprinkle some cilantro or basil over the top just before serving. It brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
Add a dipping sauce: Serve alongside a bowl of soy sauce or sweet chili sauce for a little extra flavor boost. It’s perfect for dipping or drizzling on top for those who love extra sauce.
FAQs about ground beef stir fry
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this stir fry. It’s a leaner option and will still absorb the flavors of the stir fry sauce beautifully. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly, as turkey can sometimes dry out more easily than beef.
How do I make this stir fry gluten-free?
To make this ground beef stir fry gluten-free, simply swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Ensure that your noodles or rice are also certified gluten-free, and you’re good to go!
How can I make this stir fry spicier?
If you love some heat, try adding extra red pepper flakes, a splash of sriracha, or even a few chopped chili peppers. For an added layer of spice, drizzle on some chili oil for that extra kick!
Can I use other vegetables for this stir fry?
Absolutely! This recipe is super versatile, so you can swap in any of your favorite stir fry veggies like snap peas, carrots, baby corn, or mushrooms. Use what you have on hand or whatever’s in season for the best flavor.
ground beef stir fry
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
- 1 cup bell peppers sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 green onions chopped
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 2 cups cooked rice or noodles
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Chop the bell peppers and broccoli, mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and slice the green onions. Set aside.
- Cook the ground beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the beef until browned, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté the garlic and ginger: Push the beef aside, then sauté the garlic and ginger for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the vegetables: Add the bell peppers and broccoli. Cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but crisp.
- Make the sauce: Mix soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch slurry in a bowl. Pour into the pan and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve over rice or noodles. Top with chopped green onions.