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, grated; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Express Kitchen

This ground beef and veggie stir fry is a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s a dish the whole family will love.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-24T17:39:34.911Z

This recipe brings together savory ground beef and a colorful array of vegetables in a quick stir fry. Ideal for a nutritious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes, this dish highlights the vibrant flavors of fresh produce.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes
Packed with colorful veggies for a nutritious boost
Flavorful sauce that ties all the ingredients together

A Quick and Nutritious Dinner Option

When life gets hectic, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can seem daunting. This ground beef and veggie stir fry is here to save the day! With just 25 minutes from start to finish, it’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights. Not only does it deliver on speed, but it also ensures that your family is getting a nutrient-rich meal packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

The combination of ground beef and colorful mixed vegetables not only makes for an appealing presentation but also offers a well-rounded nutritional profile. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein and iron, while the veggies provide a spectrum of phytonutrients and fiber. This stir fry is a perfect way to encourage your family to eat their greens without any fuss.

Flavorful Ingredients That Shine

One of the standout elements of this dish is its flavorful sauce, which is a harmonious blend of soy sauce and sesame oil. These ingredients not only add depth and richness but also bring an umami punch that enhances the overall taste. The garlic and ginger introduce aromatic notes that elevate the dish, making it not just a meal but a delightful experience for your taste buds.

The beauty of this stir fry lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it by swapping in your favorite vegetables or adding protein alternatives like chicken or tofu. This adaptability means you can enjoy this dish repeatedly without getting bored, making it a staple in your meal rotation.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this ground beef and veggie stir fry is delicious on its own, serving it over rice or noodles takes it to the next level. Consider using brown rice or whole grain noodles for a healthier twist. For an added texture and flavor contrast, sprinkle some sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top before serving. These small touches can make a significant difference in presentation and taste.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of chili sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Alternatively, you can turn this stir fry into a meal prep favorite by making a larger batch and dividing it into containers for the week ahead. This makes for a quick grab-and-go lunch or dinner option!

Ingredients

Main 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, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

Enjoy your delicious stir fry!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables

Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Season and Serve

Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Cook for an additional 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or chili sauce for some heat.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying this delicious stir fry, you’re in luck! Properly stored, it can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to cool the stir fry completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps maintain its freshness and flavor for your next meal.

When it comes to reheating, a quick stir in the microwave works well, but for the best texture, consider using a skillet. Simply add a splash of water or broth to the skillet to revive the dish's moisture and heat it over medium heat until warmed through. This method helps to keep the vegetables from becoming too soft and maintains the integrity of the dish.

Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients

This ground beef and veggie stir fry is not just a delightful meal; it also offers numerous health benefits. Ground beef is rich in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. Additionally, it contains vital nutrients like zinc and B vitamins that are crucial for energy production and immune function.

The mixed vegetables, including bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, contribute a wealth of vitamins A and C, which are important for skin health and immune support. They also provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Including a variety of colorful vegetables in your meals is a simple way to enhance your diet and promote overall well-being.

Tips for Perfect Stir Fry

Achieving the perfect stir fry is all about timing and technique. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the ingredients; this helps to sear the beef quickly and retain its juices. Cooking in batches can also prevent overcrowding in the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying. If you're making a large quantity, consider using two pans to speed up the cooking process.

Another tip is to prep all your ingredients beforehand. Having everything chopped and ready to go ensures a smooth cooking process and prevents overcooking. Stir-frying is a quick method, so keeping an eye on the cooking time will help you maintain that perfect tender-crisp texture in your vegetables.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite veggies like snap peas or zucchini.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the stir fry for extra heat.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything ahead of time and stir-fry it just before serving for the best flavor and texture.