Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry

Name: Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Highlighted under: Express Kitchen

A quick and tasty stir fry that combines ground beef with colorful vegetables for a nutritious meal.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-24T15:18:33.145Z

This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is not only delicious but also a great way to get your daily servings of vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
Packed with protein and vitamins from fresh vegetables
Versatile recipe that you can customize with your favorite veggies

The Benefits of Stir Fry

Stir frying is one of the fastest cooking methods, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With a hot pan and a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in under 30 minutes. This method not only saves time but also retains the color, flavor, and nutrients of your ingredients, ensuring a healthy dining experience.

The beauty of stir fry lies in its versatility. You can easily swap out the ground beef for chicken, tofu, or shrimp, catering to different dietary preferences. Similarly, the vegetables can be customized based on what you have on hand or what’s in season, allowing you to create a unique dish every time.

Nutritional Highlights

Ground beef is a fantastic source of protein, providing essential amino acids that are important for muscle repair and overall health. When combined with a colorful array of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, you not only enhance the flavor but also boost the meal's vitamin content. These vegetables are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and fiber, making this dish a wholesome choice.

Incorporating a variety of vegetables into your meals can improve digestion and help maintain a healthy weight. The fiber content from the veggies aids in digestion, while the low-calorie count of most vegetables means you can enjoy a satisfying meal without overindulging.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your stir fry experience, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or tender noodles. Both options absorb the delicious flavors of the dish while providing a hearty base. For a low-carb alternative, serve the stir fry over steamed cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

For an added burst of flavor, garnish your dish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or a drizzle of sriracha. These finishing touches not only enhance the presentation but also add extra layers of taste that can take your stir fry from ordinary to extraordinary.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your stir fry:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Make sure to prep all ingredients before you start cooking for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious stir fry:

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pan, heat the sesame oil over medium 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 pan. Stir-fry for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Season and Serve

Pour the soy sauce over the stir fry, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.

Enjoy your homemade stir fry!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables or proteins to this stir fry for a personal touch.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, storing them properly is essential for maintaining freshness. Allow your 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 great option for meal prep.

When reheating, aim to do so on the stovetop for the best results. This method helps retain the texture of the vegetables and the overall flavor of the dish, ensuring your meal tastes just as good as when it was freshly made.

Customizing Your Stir Fry

Feel free to experiment with different flavor profiles in your stir fry. Adding a splash of oyster sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes can give your dish an exciting twist. For a sweeter touch, consider including pineapple or snap peas, which pair beautifully with the savory elements of ground beef.

Herbs and spices can also play a significant role in enhancing the flavor. Fresh cilantro, basil, or even a squeeze of lime juice can elevate your stir fry, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the beef and sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that will work well in this recipe.

→ How can I make this stir fry healthier?

You can use less oil, add more vegetables, or serve it with quinoa instead of rice.

→ What vegetables work best in stir fry?

Bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots are all excellent choices.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stir fry in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.