Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with colorful vegetables and savory flavors, it's a dish that the whole family will love.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables. It's a fantastic way to get a nutritious meal on the table in no time!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
- Packed with colorful and nutritious vegetables
- Savory flavors that satisfy the whole family
- Perfect for using up leftover vegetables
A Quick Weeknight Meal
When life gets busy, it's essential to have quick and nutritious meal options at your fingertips. This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for hectic weeknights. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can serve a satisfying dinner that will please even the pickiest eaters in your family.
The beauty of this dish lies not only in its speed but also in its versatility. You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand, making it a perfect recipe for using up leftover produce. Whether you're a busy parent, a student, or just someone who enjoys a quick meal, this stir fry is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Nutritional Benefits
This stir fry is not just quick and delicious; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair, while the mixed vegetables provide a range of vitamins and minerals. Bell peppers, for instance, are rich in vitamin C, while broccoli is a great source of fiber and antioxidants. Together, they contribute to a balanced meal that supports overall health.
Moreover, by incorporating a variety of colorful vegetables, you're ensuring that your family gets a good dose of nutrients. The more colors on your plate, the more diverse your nutrient intake. This dish allows you to enjoy a hearty meal without compromising on nutrition, making it a win-win for health-conscious families.
Tips for Perfecting Your Stir Fry
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry, ensure that your skillet is hot enough before adding the beef. This helps to sear the meat, locking in juices and enhancing the overall taste. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
It's also helpful to prep your ingredients in advance. Chop the vegetables and measure out the sauces before you start cooking. This not only saves time but also ensures that everything is ready to go when you need it, allowing for a seamless cooking experience. Lastly, feel free to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find your perfect flavor combination.
Ingredients
For the stir fry
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables or add in some extra spices for a kick!
Instructions
Cook the beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add vegetables
Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Season
Stir in the soy sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
Serve
Serve hot over rice or noodles, if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious stir fry!
Serving Suggestions
While this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is delicious on its own, serving it over a bed of rice or noodles can elevate the meal even further. Jasmine rice or whole grain noodles are excellent choices that complement the savory flavors of the stir fry. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for an added touch.
If you're looking to make this dish even heartier, consider adding a side salad or some steamed dumplings. These additions can create a more substantial meal and provide a variety of textures and flavors, making dinner feel special even on a busy night.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
One of the best things about this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is that it stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. If you have leftovers, allow the stir fry to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.
When reheating, it's best to use a skillet over medium heat to preserve the texture of the vegetables. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and to help steam the veggies back to life. In just a few minutes, you'll have a delicious meal ready to go, making your busy weeknights even easier.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with this stir fry! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile. If you're aiming for extra crunch, add some nuts or seeds, like cashews or sunflower seeds, during the last minute of cooking.
You can also experiment with different sauces. For a spicy kick, add some chili paste or sriracha, or try teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor. With a bit of creativity, you can tailor this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, ensuring that it remains a family favorite for years to come.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
→ What vegetables can I add?
You can use any vegetables you like! Snow peas, zucchini, or snap peas work great.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and stir-fry them when ready to eat.
→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the stir fry after cooking. Just allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with colorful vegetables and savory flavors, it's a dish that the whole family will love.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the stir fry
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Stir in the soy sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
Serve hot over rice or noodles, if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g