Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A quick and delicious ground beef and veggie stir fry that's perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
This ground beef and veggie stir fry is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a hearty meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory beef flavor complemented by fresh vegetables
- Quick preparation makes it ideal for busy nights
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite veggies
A Weeknight Winner
When it comes to preparing dinner on a busy weeknight, efficiency is key. This ground beef and veggie stir fry is your answer to those hectic evenings when time is scarce but you still want a wholesome meal. With a total preparation and cooking time of under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, nutritious dinner on the table in no time, leaving you with more moments to relax or enjoy with family.
The beauty of this dish lies not only in its speed but also in its adaptability. You can swap in your favorite vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Whether you prefer snap peas, zucchini, or even spinach, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate your preferences, making it a go-to meal for any occasion.
Flavorful Ingredients
The star of this recipe is the ground beef, which provides a rich and savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the fresh vegetables. Ground beef is a great source of protein and iron, making this stir fry not only delicious but also nutritious. Combined with the aromatic garlic and ginger, the dish gains depth and complexity that elevates the overall taste experience.
In addition to the meat and veggies, the sauces used in this stir fry—soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil—contribute to a delightful umami flavor that is hard to resist. These ingredients work together to create a savory glaze that coats the beef and vegetables, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Serving Suggestions
While this stir fry is delightful on its own, serving it over a bed of cooked rice enhances the meal and makes it more filling. Choose from white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The rice absorbs the delicious sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture to your dish.
For those looking to add a little extra flair, consider topping your stir fry with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick. These simple additions not only improve the visual appeal but also elevate the flavor profile, making your meal even more enjoyable.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Make sure to prep all your ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.
Instructions
Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the Vegetables
Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Season and Serve
Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve over cooked rice.
Enjoy your delicious stir fry!
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover ground beef and veggie stir fry, you’re in luck! This dish stores wonderfully in the refrigerator. Simply transfer any uneaten stir fry to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. This makes for an easy lunch option the next day or a quick dinner when you don’t feel like cooking.
To reheat, simply place the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between. You may want to add a splash of water or additional soy sauce to keep it moist during reheating.
Customizing Your Stir Fry
One of the best aspects of this ground beef and veggie stir fry is its versatility. Feel free to get creative with your vegetable selection. Seasonal veggies like asparagus in spring or squash in summer can add unique flavors and textures to your dish. Additionally, you can experiment with different proteins, such as chicken, tofu, or shrimp, to suit your dietary preferences.
For a little extra crunch, consider adding nuts like cashews or almonds, or toss in some bean sprouts at the end of cooking for a fresh, crisp element. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your tastes and what you have available in your kitchen.
Nutritional Benefits
This ground beef and veggie stir fry is not only a quick meal option but also a nutritious one. Packed with protein from the beef and an array of vitamins from the vegetables, it supports a balanced diet. The inclusion of colorful veggies not only increases the nutrient density but also adds antioxidants that are beneficial for overall health.
Moreover, by preparing this meal at home, you have control over the ingredients used, allowing you to limit added sugars and unhealthy fats often found in takeout options. This makes it a smart choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying delicious food.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the skillet.
→ What can I serve with the stir fry?
This stir fry is great served over rice, but you can also serve it over noodles or quinoa.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Cook the stir fry just before serving.
→ How can I make it spicy?
Add some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the stir fry for an extra kick!
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
A quick and delicious ground beef and veggie stir fry that's perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve over cooked rice.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 20g