Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A quick and delicious stir fry packed with protein and colorful veggies, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a family favorite that brings together the rich flavors of beef with the crunch of fresh vegetables. It's a quick dish that can be customized with your favorite veggies and sauces.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
- Packed with protein and colorful vegetables
- Customizable with your favorite stir fry sauces
- Perfect for meal prep or leftovers
The Benefits of Stir Fry
Stir fry is one of the healthiest cooking methods, preserving the nutrients and flavors of your ingredients. This technique allows you to cook vegetables quickly while maintaining their vibrant colors and crisp textures. The high heat used in stir frying also helps to lock in flavors, making every bite of your meal delicious and satisfying. With the addition of ground beef, this dish provides a rich source of protein, making it a well-rounded option for dinner.
Another great advantage of stir fry is its versatility. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. This not only keeps your meals exciting but also encourages you to consume a wider variety of nutrients. Whether you prefer leafy greens, crunchy snap peas, or hearty mushrooms, the stir fry method accommodates all kinds of produce.
Perfect for Busy Nights
Life can get hectic, and finding time to prepare a nutritious dinner is often a challenge. This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can serve a delicious home-cooked meal without sacrificing your evening schedule.
Plus, stir fry is easy to clean up! With just one skillet needed for cooking, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal. This makes it not only a time-saver during the week but also a great option for meal prep. You can make a larger batch and enjoy it for lunch the next day or freeze portions for later.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. You can customize the stir fry to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you love spice, add some red chili flakes or sriracha for a kick. Prefer a sweeter flavor? A splash of teriyaki sauce can enhance the dish beautifully. Feel free to experiment with different proteins as well; chicken, shrimp, or tofu all work wonderfully in this recipe.
For those following a low-carb diet, consider serving the stir fry over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or noodles. This alternative not only complements the flavors but also keeps the dish lighter and lower in carbohydrates. The possibilities are endless, making this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry a meal that can evolve with you.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preference!
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5 minutes.
Add Vegetables
Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
Season and Serve
Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Enjoy your delicious stir fry!
Storage and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is simple. 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, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, and you’ll have a quick meal ready in no time.
For longer storage, you can freeze the stir fry. Divide it into portions in freezer-safe containers, and it will keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This ensures that you always have a tasty meal on hand when you need it.
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is delicious on its own, but it can also be complemented with various sides. Serving it over steamed jasmine or brown rice adds a delightful texture and helps soak up the savory sauce. Alternatively, you can pair it with noodles for a heartier option, such as udon or rice noodles, which can be tossed into the stir fry or served alongside.
For a fresh touch, consider adding a side salad or pickled vegetables to your meal. The crunch of a simple cucumber salad or the tang of pickled carrots can elevate the dining experience. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add to the nutritional value of your meal, making it even more satisfying.
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.
→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
A quick and delicious stir fry packed with protein and colorful veggies, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5 minutes.
Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 23g