Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and healthy meal option that brings together the rich flavors of beef with vibrant, crunchy vegetables.
This delicious stir fry is perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and vegetables, it's a meal the whole family will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare, ready in just 25 minutes
- Packed with nutritious vegetables for a healthy balance
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite veggies
- Rich, savory flavors that satisfy any appetite
A Quick and Nutritious Meal
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a healthy meal can be challenging. This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry not only meets your time constraints but also packs a nutritional punch. With lean ground beef as the protein source, combined with an array of colorful vegetables, this dish ensures you’re getting essential vitamins and minerals while enjoying a satisfying meal.
The use of mixed vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots not only adds a vibrant splash of color to your plate but also delivers a variety of textures and flavors. Each bite offers a delightful crunch and a burst of freshness, making it an enjoyable experience for your taste buds. Plus, the quick cooking time helps preserve the nutrients in the vegetables, making this stir fry a wholesome choice.
Versatility at Its Best
One of the best aspects of stir fry recipes is their versatility. You can easily swap out the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t like broccoli? Try snap peas or zucchini instead. Prefer different proteins? Chicken or tofu can be great substitutes. This flexibility allows you to experiment with flavors and textures, creating a new dish each time.
Additionally, this recipe can be adapted to accommodate dietary needs. For those following a gluten-free diet, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce. Want to add more fiber? Toss in some edamame or chickpeas. The options are endless, making this stir fry a staple for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles. Brown rice or quinoa can add an extra layer of nutrition, while rice noodles offer a delightful chewiness. You can also serve it with a side of steamed dumplings for an Asian-inspired feast that will impress your family or guests.
For a fresh twist, top your stir fry with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha for some heat. These simple garnishes can enhance the dish’s flavor profile and add visual appeal, making your meal not just delicious but also Instagram-worthy!
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients for a delicious stir fry.
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Add Vegetables
Stir in the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Season and Serve
Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Your stir fry is ready to enjoy!
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, this stir fry stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to maintain moisture.
For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the stir fry. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container and label it with the date. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.
Nutritional Benefits
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Ground beef is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair. It’s also rich in iron and zinc, important for maintaining healthy immune function and energy levels.
The mixed vegetables provide a variety of nutrients. For instance, bell peppers are high in vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system, while broccoli offers fiber and antioxidants that promote heart health. Incorporating these veggies into your meals helps ensure you’re getting a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.
Cooking Tips
To achieve the best flavor in your stir fry, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the ingredients. This ensures that the beef browns nicely and the vegetables retain their crunch. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if you're making a larger batch, it’s better to cook in smaller portions to maintain that perfect texture.
Don’t forget to prep your ingredients before you start cooking. Having everything chopped and ready to go will streamline the process, allowing you to enjoy a quick, hassle-free cooking experience. A well-prepped kitchen can make meal preparation enjoyable and efficient, leading to a delicious result.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! Chicken, turkey, or tofu can be used as alternatives to ground beef.
→ What vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add any of your favorites like snap peas, zucchini, or spinach.
→ Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and cook them just before serving for the best taste.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and healthy meal option that brings together the rich flavors of beef with vibrant, crunchy vegetables.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stir Fry
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Stir in the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 25g