Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Hearty Favorites
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and healthy meal packed with flavor and nutrition.
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry brings together the savory flavors of beef and the freshness of mixed vegetables, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
- Packed with colorful veggies for a nutritious boost
- Flavorful sauce that ties everything together beautifully
A Quick and Nutritious Dinner Option
When time is of the essence, this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry comes to the rescue. Not only does it take less than 30 minutes to whip up, but it also brings a nutritious balance to your dinner table. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, while the vibrant vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal that satisfies both your hunger and your health goals.
The beauty of this stir fry lies in its versatility. You can easily swap the mixed vegetables for whatever you have on hand, making it a great way to utilize leftover produce. Whether you prefer snap peas, zucchini, or even spinach, this recipe adapts to your preferences while ensuring you get a colorful, nutrient-packed plate.
A Flavorful Sauce that Elevates the Dish
The sauce in this stir fry is what truly ties the dish together. A combination of soy sauce and oyster sauce creates a rich, savory flavor that enhances the natural taste of the beef and vegetables. This balance of umami not only makes every bite delicious but also adds depth to the overall meal. If you're feeling adventurous, you can customize the sauce with additional ingredients like chili paste for a spicy kick or sesame oil for a nutty finish.
Moreover, this flavorful sauce is simple to prepare and requires minimal ingredients. You won't need to spend hours marinating or preparing complex sauces. Just a quick pour and mix, and you're ready to go. This ease of preparation is perfect for those new to cooking or anyone looking to make dinner stress-free.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is also an excellent choice for meal prepping. Make a larger batch, and you can divide it into individual servings for the week. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge, and you'll have a quick lunch or dinner option ready to go. Just reheat and enjoy a healthy meal without the hassle of cooking each day.
By meal prepping this dish, you can also control the portion sizes and ingredients, making it easier to stick to your dietary goals. Plus, the flavors tend to deepen after a day in the fridge, making your leftovers just as delicious as the freshly made version.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Cooking Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5 minutes.
Add Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in Vegetables
Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
Add Sauce
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Mix well and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking or based on what's in season.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers from your Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, be sure to do so gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain the texture of the vegetables. If the stir fry seems dry after reheating, a splash of water or additional soy sauce can help revive the flavors.
For longer storage, consider freezing your stir fry. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it in a skillet or microwave.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with this stir fry recipe by adding different proteins or vegetables. Chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be great alternatives to ground beef, allowing you to switch up the flavor profile. Additionally, incorporating seasonal vegetables like snap peas in the spring or squash in the fall can keep the dish fresh and exciting all year round.
For those looking for a low-carb option, serve this stir fry over a bed of cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice. This swap not only reduces carbohydrates but also increases the vegetable content of your meal, making it even healthier.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken or turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
→ What vegetables work best in this stir fry?
Any vegetables like snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms can work well.
→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and healthy meal packed with flavor and nutrition.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Hearty Favorites
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)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Mix well and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking or based on what's in season.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g