Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A quick and delicious stir fry packed with protein and veggies, perfect for busy weeknights.
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It's an easy-to-make dish that brings the family together at the dinner table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare, ready in just 25 minutes
- Packed with colorful vegetables and hearty beef
- Customizable with your favorite veggies and sauces
The Perfect Weeknight Meal
When you're juggling work, family, and other responsibilities, finding time to cook a healthy dinner can feel overwhelming. This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is the answer to your weeknight woes. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a nutritious meal that the whole family will love. The combination of protein-rich ground beef and vibrant vegetables not only satisfies hunger but also provides essential nutrients for your body.
Moreover, stir fry dishes offer incredible versatility. You can easily modify this recipe to include your family's favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. This means you can enjoy a different flavor profile each time you make it, keeping your meals exciting and fresh. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll have a delicious dinner that comes together in a flash.
Nutritional Benefits
Ground beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Coupled with a variety of colorful vegetables, this dish becomes a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. Bell peppers, for instance, are loaded with vitamin C, while broccoli provides fiber and antioxidants. These nutrients support overall health and well-being, making this stir fry not just tasty but also nourishing.
In addition to being packed with health benefits, this dish is also a great way to encourage kids to eat their veggies. The vibrant colors and appealing textures of the mixed vegetables make it more likely that even picky eaters will give them a try. By incorporating a variety of vegetables into your meals, you're instilling healthy eating habits in your children that can last a lifetime.
Customizing Your Stir Fry
One of the best aspects of stir fry is its adaptability. Feel free to swap out the ground beef for chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different sauces, such as teriyaki or hoisin, to give your dish a unique twist. This flexibility allows you to cater to dietary preferences and ensures that you never get bored with your meals.
In addition to proteins and sauces, consider adding various toppings to enhance flavor and texture. Chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime can elevate your stir fry to the next level. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this dish your own; the possibilities are endless!
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Feel free to add or substitute any of your favorite vegetables!
Instructions
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the beef, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir Fry the Vegetables
Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir fry for about 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
Add the Sauce
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir to combine, then add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Serve
Remove from heat and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Enjoy your delicious stir fry!
Serving Suggestions
Serving this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice is a classic choice. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite deliciously satisfying. Alternatively, you can use noodles for a heartier meal. Rice noodles or egg noodles work well, and they add a delightful chewiness that complements the crisp vegetables.
For a low-carb option, consider serving the stir fry over cauliflower rice or even on a bed of leafy greens. This not only lightens the meal but also adds extra nutrients. Pair your stir fry with a side of spring rolls or dumplings for a complete Asian-inspired feast that will impress your family or guests.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers from this stir fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep your meal fresh, make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help revive the dish and prevent it from drying out.
If you want to extend the shelf life of your stir fry, consider freezing it. Portion out the stir fry into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above. This makes for a quick meal option on particularly busy days.
Making it a Family Affair
Cooking together can be a wonderful bonding experience for families. Involve your kids in the preparation of this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry. Let them wash and chop the vegetables (with supervision, of course) or help measure out the sauce ingredients. This not only teaches them valuable cooking skills but also gets them excited about eating the meal they've helped create.
Additionally, you can turn dinner into a fun event by allowing each family member to customize their bowl. Set out extra toppings like chopped peanuts, spicy chili flakes, or a drizzle of sriracha. This interactive approach encourages everyone to enjoy their meal and can lead to creative flavor combinations that surprise and delight!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.
→ What vegetables can I use?
You can use any vegetables you like, such as snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and check the labels on other sauces.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
A quick and delicious stir fry packed with protein and veggies, 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)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
How-To Steps
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the beef, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir fry for about 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir to combine, then add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 28g