Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights.
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients and flavor. The combination of tender ground beef and fresh vegetables creates a colorful and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare with minimal cleanup
- Packed with colorful veggies for a nutritious boost
- Perfectly seasoned for a savory flavor explosion
A Quick and Easy Dinner Solution
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can often feel like a daunting task. This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is designed to be your go-to solution for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients and a cooking time of under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious and nutritious dinner on the table in no time.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are easily accessible, and you can customize the mixed vegetables based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Whether you choose to use fresh or frozen veggies, this stir fry remains an excellent choice for a quick meal.
Nutritional Benefits of Ground Beef and Veggies
Ground beef is a fantastic source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins, making it a staple in many diets. It provides the necessary nutrients for muscle growth and repair, which is particularly beneficial for active individuals and families. When paired with a colorful assortment of vegetables, you elevate the nutritional profile of your meal significantly.
The mixed vegetables in this stir fry not only add vibrant colors to your plate but also contribute a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, while broccoli offers fiber and essential nutrients. This combination ensures that you and your loved ones are getting a well-rounded, nourishing meal.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
While this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is fantastic served over rice or noodles, there are numerous ways to enjoy it. Consider serving it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, or adding it to a fresh salad for a delightful twist. The versatility of this dish means you can adapt it to suit your dietary needs or cravings.
You can also experiment with different sauces and seasonings to create unique flavor profiles. Try adding a splash of sesame oil for a nutty flavor or tossing in some chili flakes for a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own time and time again.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting to cook for a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in Vegetables
Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Add Sauces
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve the stir fry over cooked rice or noodles. Enjoy your meal!
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Tips for Perfect Stir Fry
To achieve the best results with your stir fry, ensure that all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Stir frying happens quickly, and having everything on hand will help you avoid overcooking your beef or vegetables.
Use high heat and a large skillet or wok to allow for even cooking and to get that desirable sear on the beef. If you're making a larger batch, consider cooking the ingredients in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying.
Storage and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! This stir fry stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the stir fry. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up.
Customizing Your Stir Fry
One of the many joys of stir frying is the ability to customize your dish based on personal taste or dietary restrictions. Feel free to swap out ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based protein for a healthier or vegetarian option.
You can also add different vegetables like snap peas, zucchini, or even mushrooms to enhance the flavor and texture. The key is to balance the flavors and ensure that everything is cooked to just the right degree to maintain freshness and crunch.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and can make the dish lighter.
→ What vegetables can I use?
You can use any vegetables you like, such as snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stir fry and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stir Fry
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
How-To Steps
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the stir fry over cooked rice or noodles. Enjoy your meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 25g