Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Hearty Favorites
A hearty and flavorful stir fry that combines ground beef with vibrant vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a perfect blend of protein and vegetables, making it both nutritious and satisfying. It's a versatile dish that you can customize with your favorite veggies and sauces. Quick to prepare, it's ideal for busy weeknights!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes
- Packed with nutritious vegetables and protein
- Flavorful sauce that ties all the ingredients together
- Versatile recipe that allows for customization
A Quick Meal Solution
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a nutritious meal can be a challenge. This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is designed for busy weeknights, allowing you to whip up a satisfying dinner in just 25 minutes. With its quick cooking time, you can easily bring the family together around the dinner table without the stress of lengthy preparations.
The beauty of a stir fry lies in its simplicity and speed. The high heat of the skillet ensures that the ingredients cook quickly while retaining their freshness and flavor. This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you need to put a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Nutritional Benefits
Ground beef is a great source of protein, making it an excellent choice for building and repairing tissues. When paired with a vibrant array of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas, this dish not only satisfies your hunger but also boosts your nutrient intake. Each vegetable contributes unique vitamins and minerals, ensuring you get a well-rounded meal.
Incorporating a variety of colors on your plate means you're not just eating for flavor. Each color represents different phytonutrients that support overall health. This stir fry is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a way to nourish your body with essential nutrients.
Customization Options
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 what’s in season. Zucchini, carrots, or even baby corn could be delightful additions. This adaptability allows you to cater to personal tastes or dietary needs, making it a family favorite.
If you're looking for a spice kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce. Alternatively, for those seeking a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef. These variations ensure that each time you prepare this dish, it feels fresh and exciting.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Enjoy this delicious stir fry with rice or noodles!
Instructions
Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the Vegetables
Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute. Then, toss in the sliced bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Combine the Sauce
Pour in the soy sauce and the cornstarch mixture. Stir well to coat all the ingredients. Cook for another minute until the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables with your favorites or whatever you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry, the options are plentiful. For a classic approach, serve it over a bed of steamed rice or noodles to soak up the savory sauce. Alternatively, if you're looking for a low-carb option, consider serving it with cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps for a refreshing twist.
Don’t forget to garnish your stir fry! A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions adds not only a pop of color but also an extra layer of flavor. These small touches elevate your dish, making it visually appealing and delicious.
Storing and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck! This stir fry stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This method helps prevent the vegetables from becoming overly soft.
For longer storage, consider freezing the stir fry. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned. This makes it an excellent meal prep option for those busy weeks!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work just as well in this recipe.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add carrots, zucchini, or any other vegetables you enjoy in stir fries.
→ Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
A hearty and flavorful stir fry that combines ground beef with vibrant vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Hearty Favorites
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute. Then, toss in the sliced bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Pour in the soy sauce and the cornstarch mixture. Stir well to coat all the ingredients. Cook for another minute until the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables with your favorites or whatever you have on hand.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g