Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A quick and easy dish packed with flavor and nutrition, perfect for busy weeknights.
This ground beef and veggie stir fry is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, bringing together tender beef and a colorful array of vegetables. It's quick to prepare and makes a perfect weeknight meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy evenings.
- Packed with protein and veggies for a balanced meal.
- Versatile – customize with your favorite vegetables.
A Nutritious One-Pan Meal
In today's fast-paced world, finding meals that are both nutritious and quick to prepare can be a challenge. This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is your go-to solution. It's a one-pan meal that brings together protein-rich ground beef and an array of vibrant vegetables, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome dinner. Not only is it quick to whip up, but it also delivers essential nutrients your body craves, ensuring you and your family stay energized throughout the evening.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You can easily customize it based on what you have in your fridge. Whether you prefer bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas, this stir fry accommodates all. Plus, it can be served on its own or over rice or noodles, providing flexibility for various dietary preferences.
Flavorful and Satisfying
With just a handful of ingredients, this stir fry is a testament to how delicious simplicity can be. The combination of soy sauce and sesame oil adds a savory depth of flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the ground beef. The garlic and ginger not only enhance the taste but also bring a fragrant aroma that makes your kitchen feel inviting. This dish is not just filling; it’s a culinary experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Moreover, the quick cooking time helps retain the vegetables' natural crunch and nutrients. Stir-frying at high heat allows the ingredients to cook evenly while preserving their vibrant colors, making your meal visually appealing. This dish proves that cooking can be quick without sacrificing taste or quality.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking to streamline your weekly meal prep, this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a fantastic choice. It stores well in the refrigerator and can easily be reheated for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Preparing a large batch not only saves time but also helps you make sure you have a nutritious meal ready to go, keeping you from reaching for less healthy options on busy days.
To make meal prep even easier, consider portioning out the stir fry with your choice of grains like brown rice or quinoa in individual containers. This way, you have balanced meals ready to grab when you're short on time, ensuring that healthy eating remains convenient and achievable.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to add any other vegetables you have on hand!
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. 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 the Stir Fry
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Remove from heat and serve hot over rice or noodles, if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious stir fry!
Tips for Perfect Stir Fry
To achieve the best texture in your stir fry, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the ingredients. This helps to sear the beef quickly and maintain the crispness of the vegetables. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key. Opt for seasonal vegetables to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your dish. If you have leftover vegetables from previous meals, feel free to throw them in; stir fry is incredibly forgiving and adaptable.
Variations to Try
While this recipe offers a delicious foundation, there are endless variations you can explore. For a kick of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha. You can also try different sauces like teriyaki or oyster sauce to switch up the flavor profile.
For a lighter option, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can even make it vegetarian by replacing the meat with tofu or tempeh. The choice is yours, making this stir fry versatile enough to suit any dietary need.
Serving Suggestions
This stir fry is fantastic served over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles, but you can also enjoy it on its own as a low-carb meal. Consider pairing it with a side of steamed dumplings or a fresh salad for added texture and flavor.
For a complete dining experience, finish your meal with a light dessert, such as fruit salad or yogurt, to cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing end to your dinner. These simple suggestions can elevate your meal, making it not just nourishment but a delightful event.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter option.
→ What vegetables can I use?
You can use any vegetables you like such as zucchini, snap peas, or mushrooms.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and stir-fry when ready to serve.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
A quick and easy dish packed with flavor and nutrition, perfect for busy weeknights.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. 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.
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove from heat and serve hot over rice or noodles, if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g