Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy a quick and delicious Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry that's perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with flavor and loaded with nutritious vegetables, this stir fry is a family favorite.
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and easy meal that is perfect for any day of the week. The combination of ground beef and fresh vegetables creates a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes
- Packed with colorful vegetables for a nutritious boost
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite ingredients
The Perfect Weeknight Meal
When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity is key. The Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is not only quick to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish, but it also brings a delightful mix of flavors and textures that everyone in the family will love. This dish is ideal for those hectic evenings when you need something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily substitute or add your favorite vegetables based on what you have on hand. Whether it's zucchini, carrots, or even mushrooms, feel free to get creative! This flexibility ensures that you can enjoy a fresh and exciting meal every time you make it.
Nutritional Benefits
This stir fry is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. The colorful array of vegetables contributes essential vitamins and minerals, while the ground beef provides a hearty source of protein. Together, they create a balanced meal that will keep you satisfied and energized. Incorporating a variety of veggies also enhances the dish's antioxidant content, making it a wholesome choice for any dinner table.
The use of fresh garlic and ginger not only elevates the flavor profile but also provides additional health benefits. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, while ginger can aid digestion and reduce inflammation. By including these ingredients, you're not just creating a tasty meal but also supporting your overall health.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve your Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, or try it with noodles for a different twist. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top can enhance the presentation and add a touch of crunch. A side of crispy spring rolls or a light salad can also complement this dish beautifully.
If you want to make it even more exciting, consider serving the stir fry with a dipping sauce on the side. A mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and a dash of chili paste can add an extra kick that your family and friends will appreciate. This dish is versatile enough to suit any palate, making it a go-to option for gatherings and casual dinners alike.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Make sure to prep all your ingredients before starting to cook for a smooth and quick process.
Instructions
Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5 minutes.
Add Vegetables
Add the garlic and ginger, stir-frying for another minute before adding the bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Add Sauce
Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well, then add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. Cook for another minute until the sauce is glossy and thickened.
Serve
Serve the stir fry hot over cooked rice or noodles, and enjoy!
Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste preferences!
Tips for Perfect Stir Fry
To achieve the best results in your stir fry, it’s crucial to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Stir frying happens quickly, so having everything chopped, measured, and within reach makes the process smoother and ensures you won’t overcook any of the components.
Using high heat is essential for a successful stir fry. This helps to sear the meat and vegetables, locking in flavors and creating that desirable slight char. Ensure your pan or wok is hot enough before adding the ingredients, and keep everything moving to prevent burning.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating can be done in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for convenience. Just be sure to stir occasionally to heat it evenly, and consider adding a splash of water or broth to keep the dish from drying out.
For longer storage, you can freeze the stir fry for up to three months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it thoroughly to enjoy a quick meal that tastes just as good as the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions
One common question is whether you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Absolutely! These alternatives can provide a lighter option while still delivering great flavor. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Another frequently asked question pertains to the sauce. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari. This adjustment allows you to enjoy the same delicious flavor without worrying about gluten. Additionally, you can experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for unique twists!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other proteins instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add carrots, mushrooms, zucchini, or any seasonal vegetables you like.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge. Just stir-fry when you're ready to eat.
→ How can I make it spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for an added kick!
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Enjoy a quick and delicious Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry that's perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with flavor and loaded with nutritious vegetables, this stir fry is a family favorite.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
How-To Steps
In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5 minutes.
Add the garlic and ginger, stir-frying for another minute before adding the bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well, then add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. Cook for another minute until the sauce is glossy and thickened.
Serve the stir fry hot over cooked rice or noodles, and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 32g