Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish loaded with colorful vegetables and savory beef, perfect for busy weeknights.
This stir fry is not only quick to make but also packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables. It's a favorite in our household for its versatility and flavor.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation for busy nights
- Packed with vibrant vegetables for a nutritious meal
- Customizable with your favorite ingredients
A Colorful Medley of Nutrients
The vibrant colors of the vegetables in this stir fry not only make for an appealing presentation but also signal a wealth of nutrients. Broccoli florets provide a healthy dose of vitamin C and fiber, while bell peppers are rich in antioxidants. Carrots add beta-carotene, essential for good vision, and snap peas contribute vitamin K and folate. This dish is a fantastic way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet, ensuring you get a range of essential vitamins and minerals.
Moreover, the quick cooking time helps to retain the nutrients in these vegetables, making this stir fry a healthy option without compromising on flavor. Each bite is not only delicious but also beneficial for your overall health. When you make this dish, you can feel good knowing you’re treating your body to a colorful array of healthful ingredients.
A Versatile Weeknight Meal
One of the best aspects of this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is its versatility. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach can be excellent additions to this dish. This adaptability makes it a perfect choice for using up leftover vegetables, reducing food waste while still preparing a fresh and delicious meal.
Additionally, if you're looking to accommodate different dietary needs, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein alternative. This makes the stir fry suitable for various diets, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy a satisfying meal. The combination of flavors remains delightful, regardless of the protein or vegetables you choose.
Quick Cooking Tips
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to add any other vegetables you have on hand!
Instructions
Cook the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5 minutes.
Add Vegetables
Stir in the garlic, broccoli, bell pepper, carrot, and snap peas. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Season and Serve
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve hot.
This stir fry can be served over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This stir fry can be kept for up to three days. 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 help steam the ingredients and prevent them from drying out.
For longer storage, consider freezing the stir fry. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Just remember that the texture of the vegetables may change slightly after freezing, but the flavors will remain delicious.
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. If you're looking for a low-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh salad. These side dishes complement the stir fry perfectly and make for a well-rounded meal.
Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top before serving can also enhance the presentation and add an extra layer of flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider drizzling some sriracha or chili oil over the top for a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the savory beef and crisp vegetables.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works great as a substitute for a leaner option.
→ What vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms based on your preference!
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and stir fry them when ready to serve.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish loaded with colorful vegetables and savory beef, perfect for busy weeknights.
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 broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the garlic, broccoli, bell pepper, carrot, and snap peas. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g