Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Hearty Favorites
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and delicious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and colorful vegetables, it's a dish that the whole family will love.
This stir fry is not only quick to prepare but also versatile. You can use any veggies you have on hand or prefer, making it a great way to clean out the fridge!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make in just 25 minutes
- Packed with protein and colorful vegetables
- Customizable with your favorite sauces and spices
A Quick and Satisfying Meal
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be a challenge. The Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is not only quick to make, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish, but it is also satisfying and full of flavor. With its vibrant colors and delicious aroma, this dish is sure to entice even the pickiest eaters at your table.
The beauty of a stir fry lies in its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or what your family enjoys. Whether you're using fresh vegetables or frozen ones, this recipe allows for creativity while ensuring a nutritious meal.
Nutritional Benefits
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is not just a delicious meal; it also packs a powerful nutritional punch. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. The mixed vegetables, including bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, provide a variety of vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health.
Including a colorful array of vegetables in your diet is a great way to boost your intake of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. Plus, the fiber from the vegetables aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, making this stir fry a balanced option for any meal.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of the Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is its adaptability. You can easily customize the flavor by adding your favorite sauces or spices. Consider incorporating a splash of sesame oil for a nutty flavor, or toss in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick. The possibilities are endless!
If you prefer a different protein, this recipe works wonderfully with chicken, turkey, or tofu. By swapping out the ground beef for a leaner option or a plant-based alternative, you can cater to different dietary needs without sacrificing taste. Don't hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and sauces to make this dish your own!
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to get started:
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your stir fry:
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive 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 skillet. Stir-fry for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Season and Serve
Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine and serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy stir fry!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add any other vegetables you like or substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry over a bed of fluffy cooked rice or noodles for a hearty meal. You can also offer it with quinoa for a nutritious twist. For added flavor, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a light side salad or some steamed dumplings for a complete Asian-inspired feast.
If you have leftovers, this stir fry can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, making it a perfect option for meal prep or quick lunches.
Tips for Perfect Stir Fry
To achieve the best results, make sure to cut your vegetables into uniform sizes. This ensures they cook evenly and at the same rate. Additionally, have all your ingredients prepared and ready to go before starting to cook. Stir frying is a quick process, and you want to avoid overcooking the vegetables while waiting for the beef to brown.
Using a high heat setting is essential for a great stir fry. This helps to sear the meat and lock in its juices while giving the vegetables a delightful crunch. If your skillet or wok is too crowded, consider cooking in batches to ensure everything gets that perfect stir-fried texture.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry can be enjoyed for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just make sure to let the stir fry cool completely before sealing it to avoid condensation.
When it comes to reheating, you can use the microwave or stovetop. If using the stovetop, add a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent drying out. Heat over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. This way, you'll maintain the dish's flavor and texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work great in this recipe and can save you prep time!
→ What can I serve with stir fry?
Serve it with cooked rice, noodles, or even on its own for a low-carb option.
→ How can I make it spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha sauce for heat.
→ Can I meal prep this dish?
Absolutely! This stir fry stores well in the fridge and can be reheated for lunch or dinner.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and delicious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and colorful vegetables, it's a dish that the whole family will love.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Hearty Favorites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine and serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add any other vegetables you like or substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 25g