Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A quick and flavorful dish that combines ground beef with a colorful array of vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights.
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and textures that come together in just 25 minutes!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare on busy evenings
- Packed with nutrients from a variety of vegetables
- Savory and satisfying, perfect for the whole family
A Healthy Dinner Option
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is not just quick to prepare; it’s also a fantastic way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your family's diet. By using colorful bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, you ensure that your meal is visually appealing and packed with essential vitamins and minerals. This dish allows you to sneak in those greens without the kids even noticing, making it a win-win for parents everywhere.
Moreover, ground beef is an excellent source of protein and iron, which are crucial for energy and overall health. When combined with the fiber and nutrients from the vegetables, you create a balanced meal that supports growth and wellness. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights when you want to serve something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Customization at Its Best
One of the greatest aspects of this Stir Fry recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. For instance, snow peas, zucchini, or snap peas can be fantastic additions, allowing you to personalize the dish to your taste preferences. This adaptability ensures that you never get bored with the same meal.
Additionally, you can experiment with different sauces or spices to create unique flavor profiles. Consider adding a splash of sesame oil for a nutty flavor or some chili flakes for a kick of heat. The possibilities are endless, and this makes it a great recipe to keep in your rotation.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is also an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts. This dish can be made in bulk, and it stores well in the refrigerator for several days. Simply cook it up on the weekend and portion it out for lunches or dinners during the week. It reheats beautifully, maintaining its flavor and texture, which means you can enjoy a home-cooked meal even on your busiest days.
To make meal prep even easier, consider prepping your vegetables in advance. Chop them up and store them in airtight containers so that when it’s time to cook, all you have to do is throw everything into the skillet. This will save you precious time and help you stick to your healthy eating goals.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal!
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Vegetables
Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet, along with the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Season and Serve
Pour in the soy sauce and stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy stir fry!
Tips for the Best Stir Fry
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your stir fry, it’s essential to cook over high heat. This allows the beef to sear properly while preventing the vegetables from becoming too soft. Ensure that your skillet is hot before adding the ingredients to achieve that perfect stir-fry finish.
Another tip is to cut your vegetables uniformly. This ensures even cooking and that they all reach that tender-crisp state at the same time. Larger pieces will take longer to cook, so keep everything evenly sized for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
This stir fry is delicious served over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, but it can also be enjoyed with noodles for a different texture. Consider using whole grain noodles for added fiber and nutrition. You can also add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for an extra burst of flavor and presentation.
If you're looking to enhance the dish further, serve it with a side of steamed dumplings or spring rolls. These additions can round out the meal and make it feel more substantial, perfect for feeding a hungry family.
Storage and Reheating
To store leftover Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a great option for meal prep. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to three months.
When you're ready to reheat, simply microwave or warm it on the stovetop. If it seems dry, adding a splash of water or soy sauce can help bring it back to life. With the right storage and reheating methods, you can enjoy this delicious stir fry multiple times without sacrificing quality.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will yield a lighter dish.
→ How can I add more flavor?
Consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra kick.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and stir-fry when ready to serve.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
A quick and flavorful dish that combines ground beef with a colorful array of vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights.
Created by: Stella Cameron
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, broccoli, carrots)
- 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 heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet, along with the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Pour in the soy sauce and stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g