Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and easy meal that is packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect for busy weeknights!
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a family favorite that combines tender beef with a colorful array of vegetables. It's not just quick to make; it's also a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients into your meal!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
- Packed with colorful vegetables for a nutritious meal
- Flavorful and satisfying, perfect for the whole family
A Quick and Nutritious Dinner Option
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a healthy meal can be a challenge. This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is the perfect solution. With its quick cooking time of under 30 minutes, you can have a nutritious and satisfying dinner on the table in no time. The combination of ground beef and vibrant vegetables not only enhances the dish's flavor but also ensures you and your family receive essential nutrients in every bite.
The beauty of this stir fry lies in its versatility. You can easily swap out the mixed vegetables based on what you have on hand or your family's preferences. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, allowing you to utilize seasonal produce or leftover veggies from your fridge, reducing food waste while creating a delicious meal.
Flavor Profile and Cooking Techniques
The key to a successful stir fry is high heat and quick cooking. By using a large skillet and cooking the ground beef over medium-high heat, you allow for that perfect sear that brings out the meat's natural flavors. Once the beef is browned, adding the garlic and ginger infuses the oil with aromatic goodness, creating a flavor base that elevates the entire dish.
Stir-frying the vegetables alongside the beef ensures they retain their vibrant color and delightful crunch. This technique not only enhances the taste but also preserves the nutrients, making this dish both delicious and healthy. With a quick toss of soy sauce at the end, you achieve a savory finish that ties all the elements together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
While this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is fantastic on its own, serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles transforms it into a complete meal. The carbohydrates from rice or noodles help to balance the protein from the beef and the fiber from the vegetables, making it a well-rounded dish. For those looking for a low-carb option, consider serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter alternative.
To add an extra layer of flavor, consider garnishing your stir fry with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a dash of chili flakes for some heat. A side of your favorite dipping sauce can also enhance the meal, providing a fun and interactive dining experience. This dish is not just a meal; it's an opportunity to create a memorable family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped before you start cooking!
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Add Vegetables
Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Season and Serve
Stir in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then serve hot over rice or noodles.
Enjoy your delicious stir fry!
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing them properly can extend their shelf life. Allow the stir fry to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days, making it an ideal option for meal prep. Reheating is simple; just warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, or use the microwave for a quick fix.
When reheating, add a splash of water or soy sauce to keep the dish moist and prevent it from drying out. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors even after a day or two. Just remember, while leftovers can be convenient, they are best consumed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Nutritional Benefits
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers numerous health benefits. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Coupled with a variety of colorful vegetables, you get a hefty dose of vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health.
The mixed vegetables in this recipe, such as bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli, are rich in antioxidants and fiber. These nutrients support a healthy digestive system and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. By incorporating this stir fry into your weekly meal rotation, you can enjoy a tasty dish that nourishes your body.
Variations to Try
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While the classic version is delightful, you can easily switch things up to keep it exciting. For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the mix. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative that is just as satisfying.
Feel free to experiment with different sauces as well. Instead of soy sauce, try teriyaki or hoisin sauce for a unique flavor twist. By making these small adjustments, you can create a variety of stir fry dishes that cater to different taste preferences while still enjoying the same ease of preparation.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the skillet without thawing.
→ What can I serve this stir fry with?
This stir fry is great served over rice, quinoa, or noodles.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Cook just before serving.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and easy meal that is packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stir Fry
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Stir in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g