Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry

Name: Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 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 vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A quick and flavorful dish that combines ground beef with an array of fresh vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-24T16:39:38.502Z

This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a delightful blend of flavors and colors, making it as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate. With its quick preparation time, it's perfect for busy weeknights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A colorful mix of fresh vegetables adds nutrition and crunch
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings
Savory ground beef packed with flavor from the sauce

      

A Quick and Nutritious Meal

When you're short on time but still want a nutritious meal, this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry fits the bill perfectly. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying dinner that your whole family will enjoy. The combination of protein-rich ground beef with a variety of colorful vegetables makes this dish not only appealing but also a great way to sneak in essential nutrients for everyone.

Using fresh vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots ensures that you're getting a good dose of vitamins and minerals. These veggies not only add a vibrant splash of color to your plate but also provide a satisfying crunch that complements the savory beef. Plus, you can customize the vegetable mix according to what you have on hand or what your family prefers, making it a versatile recipe.

Flavorful Sauce to Elevate Your Dish

One of the highlights of this stir fry is the delicious sauce that brings everything together. With just a few simple ingredients like soy sauce and oyster sauce, you can create a rich and flavorful coating for the beef and veggies. These sauces are not only tasty but also enhance the umami flavor profile of the dish, making each bite irresistible.

Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings or sauces if you want to elevate the flavor even further. For instance, a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful twist. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your taste, ensuring that every family member can enjoy it according to their preferences.

Perfect Pairings for Your Stir Fry

Serving suggestions for this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry are endless. While it pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles, you can also serve it over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative. The choice of base can help customize the dish to fit various dietary needs, whether you're looking for gluten-free options or simply want to lighten up the meal.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding toppings like chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also contribute additional flavors that can take your stir fry to the next level.

Ingredients

For the 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 vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for about 1 minute. Then add the mixed vegetables and sauté until they are tender-crisp.

Season the Stir Fry

Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, mixing well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Serve the stir fry over cooked rice or noodles. Enjoy!

Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers from this delicious stir fry, you're in luck! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stir fry for up to three months. Just remember to separate it into meal-sized portions before freezing. This way, you can easily grab a portion for a quick lunch or dinner on busy days, ensuring that you always have a flavorful meal ready to go.

Customization Options

One of the most appealing aspects of this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is its versatility. Feel free to switch out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option. Each of these proteins will bring a unique flavor and texture to the dish.

Additionally, you can mix and match the vegetables based on the season or what you have available. Snow peas, zucchini, or snap peas can be wonderful additions, and using seasonal produce can enhance the freshness and flavor profile of your meal.

Tips for the Best Stir Fry

For the best results, make sure your skillet or wok is hot before adding the oil and beef. This high heat allows the beef to brown quickly, sealing in the flavors and creating a nice texture. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than stir-frying, which affects the overall result.

Lastly, don't forget to taste and adjust your seasonings as you cook. Everyone's palate is different, and a little extra soy sauce or a dash of salt can make a significant difference in flavor. Trust your taste buds, and enjoy the process of creating a meal that’s tailored to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I make this dish more spicy?

Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce during cooking.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ What vegetables work best in a stir fry?

Bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots are great options, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand.