Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Hearty Favorites
A quick and delicious stir fry featuring ground beef and colorful vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Packed with protein and vibrant veggies, it’s a dish that can be customized to suit your taste!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
- Loaded with fresh vegetables for a nutritious boost
- Versatile recipe that you can customize with your favorite ingredients
A Quick Dinner Solution
When life gets busy, preparing a healthy and delicious dinner can be a challenge. This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is the answer to your weeknight woes. With a preparation time of under 30 minutes, it allows you to whip up a satisfying meal without sacrificing quality or nutrition. Simply gather the ingredients, and you’ll have dinner on the table in no time, leaving you with more precious moments to spend with family.
The beauty of this stir fry lies in its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a wholesome dish that’s packed with flavor. The ground beef provides a rich, savory base, while the vibrant vegetables add color, crunch, and essential nutrients. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a great way to ensure you’re getting a balanced meal.
Customizable and Versatile
One of the standout features of this stir fry recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a plant-based option. The mixed vegetables can also be replaced with whatever you have on hand—zucchini, snap peas, or even frozen veggies work beautifully. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for using up leftovers or whatever is in your fridge.
Feel free to experiment with different sauces and seasonings to create your perfect blend of flavors. Add a touch of spice with chili paste, or enhance the umami flavor with a sprinkle of sesame oil. This recipe invites creativity, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences or dietary needs while ensuring it remains quick and easy.
Nutritional Benefits
Eating a balanced meal is crucial for maintaining energy levels and overall health, and this stir fry delivers just that. The ground beef is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The mixed vegetables contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling full longer. Together, they create a nutritious dish that satisfies your hunger without compromising your health.
Incorporating a variety of vegetables not only enhances the dish's flavor but also boosts its nutritional profile. Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, broccoli offers antioxidants, and carrots provide beta-carotene. This makes your meal not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrients.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients come together to create a delightful and hearty dish!
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Vegetables
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the beef, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for another 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
Season the Stir Fry
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
Serve
Remove from heat and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Enjoy your homemade stir fry!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers after making this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry, you’re in luck! This dish stores wonderfully in the refrigerator. Simply place it in an airtight container and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave when you're ready to enjoy it again, making it a perfect option for meal prep or quick lunches.
For longer storage, consider freezing your stir fry. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it can last for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
While this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is delightful on its own, serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles elevates the meal. Jasmine rice or whole grain brown rice are great options that add a nutty flavor and extra fiber. For a low-carb alternative, try serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or green onions, for an added burst of flavor and a pop of color. A squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of sesame seeds can also enhance the dish, making it not only taste great but look appealing as well.
Pairing Beverages
To complement your Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry, consider serving it with a refreshing beverage. Iced tea or sparkling water with a slice of lemon pairs wonderfully, cutting through the richness of the beef while keeping you hydrated. If you prefer something warm, a light green tea can also enhance the meal experience.
For those who enjoy a glass of wine, a light red such as Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc can complement the savory flavors of the stir fry beautifully. Remember to enjoy responsibly!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a great time-saver and can be used in this recipe.
→ What can I serve with this stir fry?
This stir fry pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or even lettuce wraps.
→ How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to give it a kick.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance and stir-fry them when ready to serve.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
A quick and delicious stir fry featuring ground beef and colorful vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Hearty Favorites
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)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 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, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the beef, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for another 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
Remove from heat and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 32g