If you are looking for a delicious, quick, and colorful dinner, this Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines tender ground beef with a vibrant mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and onions, all tossed in a flavorful garlic-ginger soy sauce. In just about 30 minutes, you get a wholesome meal that balances savory, fresh, and slightly nutty notes thanks to the sesame oil. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but impressive enough to share with friends or family anytime you want a comforting yet healthy dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential to make the best Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe. Each one is chosen not only for flavor but also for the wonderful texture and eye-catching colors it adds to the dish.
- Ground beef (1 pound, lean): The main protein that provides a juicy, meaty base for the stir fry.
- Mixed bell peppers (2 cups, sliced): Colorful and sweet, they add crunch and freshness to every bite.
- Broccoli florets (1 cup): A vibrant green that contributes a satisfying crispness and a boost of vitamins.
- Medium onion (1, sliced): Adds subtle sweetness while softening as it cooks.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the entire dish with a warm, aromatic depth.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons, low sodium): Provides the perfect salty and umami punch without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a nutty richness and helps bring everything together.
- Ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Brings brightness and a slightly spicy zing to the mix.
- Cornstarch (1 teaspoon, optional): Perfect for thickening the sauce if you like a glossy finish.
How to Make Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Sesame Oil
Start by warming up the sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. This oil is fantastic for stir frying because it withstands heat well and imparts a rich, nutty flavor that sets the tone for the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the hot oil and cook until it’s thoroughly browned. Be sure to break it apart with your spatula as it cooks so it evenly browns and achieves that perfect, crumbly texture that carries the sauce beautifully.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger
Once the beef is browned, toss in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Stir them around for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. This quick sauté releases those fragrant oils that build incredible layers of flavor in this Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe.
Step 4: Toss in Onions and Bell Peppers
Next, add the sliced onions and colorful bell peppers. Stir frequently for about 3 to 4 minutes so the veggies soften slightly but still hold on to their natural crunch and sweetness, bringing both texture and vibrancy to the dish.
Step 5: Add Broccoli and Soy Sauce
Now it’s time to incorporate the broccoli florets and pour in the soy sauce. Cook everything together for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the broccoli to become tender-crisp—this ensures the vegetables stay fresh and delightful with just the right bite.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce if You Like
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the mixture. Let it cook for an additional minute until the sauce glazes the ingredients beautifully. This step is optional but a lovely touch to elevate the dish.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove from heat and get ready to enjoy this quick and tasty Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe straight from your pan to the plate.
How to Serve Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can really brighten up the dish. Consider sprinkling chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top—they add contrast in texture and a pop of freshness that makes the stir fry feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or even a bed of noodles like lo mein or soba. The starch helps soak up all the flavorful sauce. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside a crisp cucumber salad for added crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stir fry inside lettuce cups or soft tortilla wraps to create an interactive meal experience. Another idea is to turn it into a hearty bowl by adding avocado slices, a drizzle of sriracha, or a fried egg on top for extra richness and satisfaction.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it easy to reheat for lunches or dinner on busy days when you want something comforting but quick.
Freezing
This stir fry freezes nicely too. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and keep it for up to 2 months. When freezing, it’s best to skip adding cornstarch initially, as thickened sauces can change texture upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the stir fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until steaming hot. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up and revive its fresh flavors.
FAQs
Can I use different vegetables in this Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add vegetables like snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just keep in mind their cooking times so everything finishes tender and crisp.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and make sure any other additions are gluten-free as well.
Can ground turkey or chicken be used instead of beef?
Definitely. Ground turkey or chicken work well and create a lighter version of the stir fry, though you might want to add a little extra seasoning to enhance their milder flavors.
How spicy is this Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe?
This recipe is mild by default. To add heat, try adding red pepper flakes, chili paste, or fresh sliced chili peppers during cooking. Adjust to your taste!
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat later?
Yes, the Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe is great for meal prep. Just store it properly and reheat gently so the vegetables don’t get too soft.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself making over and over because it’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving a satisfying meal after a busy day, this stir fry hits every mark. I promise once you try it and see how effortlessly the vibrant veggies and savory beef come together, it will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Print
Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and flavorful Ground Beef Stir Fry loaded with colorful bell peppers, broccoli, and aromatic garlic and ginger. This easy 30-minute recipe combines lean ground beef with fresh vegetables in a savory soy and sesame oil sauce, perfect for a healthy and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (lean)
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers (sliced)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Heat the sesame oil in a wok over medium-high heat to prepare for stir-frying.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the hot wok, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Vegetables: Add sliced onion and bell peppers, stirring frequently for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add Broccoli and Sauce: Add broccoli florets and low sodium soy sauce, cooking for 2-3 minutes more until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Thicken Sauce (Optional): If using, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then add to the stir fry and cook briefly until the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and keep the dish healthier.
- Soy sauce can be substituted with tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Adjust vegetables according to preference or seasonal availability.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers during cooking.
- The optional cornstarch slurry helps thicken the sauce but can be skipped if a thinner sauce is preferred.
