Simple Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe

If you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and quick to whip up after a busy day, this Simple Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe is an absolute winner. Packed with vibrant vegetables, savory soy sauce, and fragrant garlic and ginger, this dish brings together a perfect balance of textures and flavors that never fail to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe delivers a comforting meal that feels both familiar and exciting with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential in bringing this Simple Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe to life. Each one adds a unique touch — from the savory depth of ground beef to the fresh crunch of bell peppers and carrots, and the aromatic zing of ginger and garlic.

• Ground Beef (1 pound, preferably lean): The protein star that provides rich flavor and satisfying texture without excess fat.
• Bell Pepper (1 medium, sliced into strips): Adds vibrant color and a sweet crunch to brighten the dish.
• Carrot (0.5 medium, julienned): Offers a subtle sweetness and crispness that balances the savory elements.
• Onion (0.5 medium, thinly sliced): Brings a gentle sweetness and depth of flavor through caramelizing as it cooks.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the stir fry with its unmistakable rich, pungent aroma.
• Ginger (1 teaspoon, freshly grated): Adds a fresh, peppery warmth that elevates the overall taste.
• Soy Sauce (0.25 cup): The salty, umami-packed liquid that binds all the ingredients in harmony.
• Sesame Oil (1 tablespoon): A fragrant addition that gives the dish a subtle nutty finish.
• Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon): For cooking and ensuring everything sautés evenly without sticking.
• Green Onions (2 stalks, chopped): Used as a fresh, bright garnish to lift the flavors and add a splash of color.

How to Make Simple Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients to streamline the process and ensure nothing gets forgotten. Having everything prepped and ready to go is key to a smooth cooking experience, especially with stir fry where things move quickly.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. This high heat is crucial for achieving that slightly crisp texture in your vegetables and browning the beef perfectly.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the hot pan, breaking it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through.

Step 4: Season the Beef

Lightly season the cooked ground beef with salt and pepper to taste, which enhances the natural flavors and ensures every bite has a balanced savoriness.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Ginger

Toss in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Stir everything around for about 30 seconds until their aromas pollinate the pan — this step is where the magic begins as they start layering complexity onto your dish.

Step 6: Cook the Onions

Introduce the sliced onions to the skillet. Cook for approximately 2 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re translucent and soft, releasing their natural sweetness into the mix.

Step 7: Add Carrots and Bell Peppers

Now it’s time to add the julienned carrots and bell pepper strips. Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes so they retain a pleasant crunch but soften slightly to blend with the other ingredients.

Step 8: Pour in the Soy Sauce

Pour the soy sauce over the beef and vegetables, stirring well to coat everything. The soy sauce brings a rich umami flavor and a bit of moisture that helps tie the whole stir fry together.

Step 9: Simmer to Meld Flavors

Let the whole mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully. This short simmer deepens the taste and ensures every ingredient has soaked up some deliciousness.

Step 10: Add Sesame Oil

Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir fry just before removing it from the heat. This final touch adds a fragrant, nutty layer that makes the dish truly stand out.

Step 11: Final Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Give the dish a taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sometimes a pinch more salt or a dash more soy sauce can perfect the balance, so feel free to tweak it to your liking.

Step 12: Garnish and Serve

Transfer your stir fry to a serving dish and sprinkle the chopped green onions on top. These fresh little bursts of flavor not only look beautiful but add a crisp, mild oniony finish.

Step 13: Ready to Enjoy

Serve immediately on its own, over steamed rice, or atop your favorite noodles for a fulfilling meal that comes together in under an hour.

How to Serve Simple Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like chopped green onions or even toasted sesame seeds elevates the dish visually and introduces additional flavors and textures. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also make an exciting twist depending on your preference.

Side Dishes

This stir fry shines when paired with simple steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or chewy noodles like udon or ramen. You can also serve it alongside sautéed greens or fresh cucumber slices to inject some freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, try serving your Simple Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe wrapped in lettuce cups for a low-carb option or layer it as a filling for tacos or pita pockets to switch up your usual dinner routine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stir fry to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days — perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners.

Freezing

If you want to make this recipe ahead and freeze it, place cooled stir fry into a freezer-safe container. It freezes well for 2 to 3 months, making it great for meal prep or busy days when cooking isn’t an option.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or use the microwave. Adding a splash of water or a little soy sauce during reheating can help maintain the stir fry’s moisture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust cooking times since leaner meats cook a bit faster.

Is this recipe spicy?

This Simple Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe is mild and savory, but you can easily add heat by incorporating red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chopped fresh chilies during cooking.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, replace the ground beef with firm tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat substitute for a delicious vegetarian version.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

If you don’t have sesame oil, you can omit it or substitute with a small drizzle of toasted nut oil or olive oil. It won’t be quite the same, but your stir fry will still taste great.

How long does it take to make this stir fry?

From start to finish, including prep and cooking, expect about 45 minutes. The actual cooking time is quick, around 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on your plate—comforting, colorful, and packed with flavor. It’s so easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve to guests or enjoy any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own staple. Happy cooking!

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