Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe – Healthy One Pan Meal

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea? This Ground Beef Stir Fry is a perfect solution! With juicy ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a homemade stir-fry sauce, this dish is packed with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a healthy family meal, this recipe is easy to customize and will become a new favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love Ground Beef Stir Fry With Vegetables

• This stir fry is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious meal. The ingredients are simple and readily available, so you can whip it up without a special trip to the store.
• Packed with flavors from fresh ginger, garlic, and a savory soy-based sauce, this stir fry will satisfy your taste buds. The combination of tender beef and crisp vegetables creates a delightful contrast of textures in every bite.
• It’s highly versatile, allowing you to use your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. This flexibility makes it great for using up leftover produce and customizing it to your preferences.
• The recipe is budget-friendly, using ground beef as the main protein, which is both economical and delicious. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Healthy and nutritious, this dish is packed with protein and vitamins from fresh vegetables, making it a balanced meal. Plus, it’s gluten-free and dairy-free, accommodating various dietary needs.

Ingredients For Ground Beef Stir Fry

• Ground Beef – The main protein of the dish, providing a rich and hearty flavor.
• Red Onion – Adds a sweet and slightly sharp flavor that complements the beef and sauce.
• Bell Pepper – Provides vibrant color and mild sweetness, adding a nice crunch to the stir fry.
• Snow Peas – Crisp and fresh, they cook quickly and add a nice texture contrast.
• Fresh Ginger – Adds a warm, spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with garlic and soy sauce.
• Garlic Cloves – Provide a fragrant and savory flavor base for the sauce.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – The primary source of saltiness and umami in the dish, balancing all flavors.
• Water or Broth – Adds moisture to the sauce; broth adds extra flavor.
• Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the saltiness of the soy sauce.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce, giving it a glossy finish that coats the ingredients.
• Olive Oil – Used for frying the vegetables, adding a light flavor.

For exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Ground Beef Stir Fry

• Nonstick Pan – Essential for cooking the ground beef and vegetables without sticking, ensuring even cooking.
• Cutting Board – Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
• Knife – Used for slicing the onion, bell pepper, and other ingredients.
• Spatula – Perfect for stirring the beef and vegetables as they cook, preventing burning and sticking.
• Measuring Cups – Necessary for measuring out the ingredients, especially the liquids for the sauce.
• Measuring Spoons – Helpful for accurately measuring smaller quantities like honey and cornstarch.
• Food Processor or Blender – Makes blending the ginger, garlic, and sauce ingredients quick and easy.

How To Make Ground Beef Stir Fry

• Start by heating a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s fully browned and cooked through, which should take about 10 minutes. Once done, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
• Add olive oil to the same pan and toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir frequently over medium-high heat, cooking until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp, about 5 minutes.
• As the vegetables cook, prepare the stir fry sauce. Combine the peeled ginger, garlic cloves, water or broth, soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch in a food processor or blender. Blend until you have a smooth sauce.
• Add the snow peas to the pan with the onions and bell peppers, and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are just tender.
• Return the cooked ground beef to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated.
• Continue cooking for 1-2 more minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened to your liking. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
• Serve immediately and enjoy a delicious, flavorful meal!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the Ground Beef Stir Fry over a bed of steamed white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• For a lower-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for a bit of crunch and additional texture.
• Pair with a side of boiled dumplings or spring rolls to create a more complete Asian-inspired meal.

Tips For Success

To achieve the best results when making Ground Beef Stir Fry, here are some helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic provide the best flavor, so try to use them instead of powdered versions. They add a lovely aroma and depth to the dish that makes a big difference. If you don’t have fresh on hand, the powdered versions are a good alternative.
• Cook Vegetables Separately: Different vegetables have different cooking times. Start by cooking the onions and bell peppers together as they take longer to soften, and then add the snow peas later. This ensures all the vegetables are cooked perfectly without becoming too soft or mushy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the ground beef and vegetables, avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures even cooking and allows the beef to brown properly. If your pan is too small, cook the ingredients in batches.
• Make the Sauce in Advance: Preparing the sauce ahead of time allows you to add it to the stir fry at the right moment without having to rush. Blending the sauce ingredients creates a smooth, well-combined mixture that thickens quickly when added to the hot pan.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Stir fries are very customizable, so feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more soy sauce for saltiness, honey for sweetness, or even a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Serve Immediately: Stir fry is best enjoyed fresh and hot. The vegetables stay crisp, and the sauce retains its thick, glossy texture. Leftovers can be stored, but reheating may slightly soften the vegetables.
• Use a Hot Pan: Make sure your pan is hot before adding the beef or vegetables. A hot pan helps to sear the ingredients quickly, preserving their flavor and texture. This is particularly important for stir fry dishes.
• Try Different Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. You can use whatever you have on hand or prefer. This dish is highly versatile and works well with a variety of veggies.

By following these tips, you’ll create a delicious and perfectly cooked Ground Beef Stir Fry every time!

Variations And Substitutions

• Protein Variations: While ground beef is delicious in this stir fry, you can easily substitute it with other proteins. Ground turkey or chicken are great lean options that offer a lighter taste and lower fat content. For a vegetarian version, use crumbled tofu or tempeh, which soak up the flavors of the sauce beautifully. If you prefer seafood, ground shrimp can also be a unique and tasty twist.
• Vegetable Swaps: The vegetables in this recipe are versatile and can be adjusted to what you have on hand. Try adding broccoli florets, snap peas, carrots, or baby corn for added texture and color. You can also use mushrooms, zucchini, or bok choy for a different flavor profile. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences or seasonal availability.
• Sauce Adjustments: To change the flavor of the stir fry, you can modify the sauce. For a sweeter taste, add a bit more honey or a splash of orange juice. If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes, sriracha, or a drizzle of chili oil. For a richer sauce, use beef broth instead of water, or add a teaspoon of oyster sauce for an umami boost.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, replace the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Make sure all other ingredients, like cornstarch, are also gluten-free certified.
• Low-Carb or Keto: For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, serve the stir fry over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice. You can also reduce the amount of honey or replace it with a low-carb sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
• Oil Alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute olive oil with other oils like sesame oil, which adds a nutty flavor to the dish, or avocado oil for a high smoke point and mild taste. Coconut oil can also be used for a slightly sweet and tropical flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: Customize the stir fry by adding fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or green onions for garnish. You can also experiment with spices like ground cumin, coriander, or five-spice powder for different flavor profiles.

These variations and substitutions allow you to adapt the Ground Beef Stir Fry to suit different tastes, dietary needs, or what you have on hand in your kitchen.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Ground Beef Stir Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the stir fry cool down to room temperature before transferring it to the container to maintain its freshness and prevent condensation.
• Freezing: You can freeze the stir fry for longer storage. Place the cooled stir fry into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and remove as much air as possible before sealing. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheating: To reheat the stir fry, place it in a skillet over medium heat and cook until heated through, stirring occasionally. This method helps to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in a microwave-safe dish; cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until fully warmed.
• Tips for Reheating: If the sauce thickens too much after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up while reheating. This will help to restore the desired consistency and ensure the stir fry remains saucy and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Ground Beef Stir Fry ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare parts of the dish ahead of time. You can chop the vegetables and make the sauce in advance. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply brown the ground beef and add the prepped ingredients to the pan. This can save time, especially on busy weeknights.

What can I serve with Ground Beef Stir Fry?

Ground Beef Stir Fry is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Serve it over steamed white or brown rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or noodles like soba or rice noodles. You can also pair it with a simple side salad, spring rolls, or steamed dumplings for a more complete meal.

Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used if fresh ones are not available. Just be aware that frozen vegetables might release more water when cooking, so you may need to cook them a bit longer to evaporate excess moisture. It’s best to add them straight to the pan without thawing to retain their texture.

How can I make the stir fry spicier?

To add more heat, you can include red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce like Sriracha, or chopped fresh chilies in the recipe. Add them during the cooking process or mix them into the sauce for an extra kick. Adjust the amount based on your desired level of spiciness.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! This Ground Beef Stir Fry is an excellent meal prep option. It stores well in the refrigerator and retains its flavor over several days. You can divide it into individual portions with rice or noodles and refrigerate them in meal prep containers for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and freeze portions for future meals.

Can I make this recipe without a food processor?

Yes, if you don’t have a food processor, you can mince the garlic and ginger finely with a knife or use a grater. Mix the sauce ingredients in a bowl until well combined. The food processor just makes it quicker, but you can achieve the same flavor and texture by hand.

Other Easy Ground Beef Recipes

Ground Beef Skillet with Potatoes: A comforting and hearty one-pan meal featuring seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and savory spices for a quick and easy dinner.

Ground Beef And Eggplant Recipe: A delicious blend of tender eggplant and flavorful ground beef simmered together in a rich, spiced sauce.

Air Fryer Ground Beef Recipe: A fast and healthy way to cook ground beef to juicy perfection in the air fryer, ready for your favorite recipes.

Cheesy Enchilada Casserole with Beef and Beans: A layered casserole bursting with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and melted cheese, all topped with tangy enchilada sauce.

Ground Beef Cabbage Bake: A simple and satisfying casserole combining ground beef and cabbage, baked without tomato sauce for a unique twist.

Zucchini Boats With Ground Beef And Cheese: Tender zucchini halves stuffed with seasoned ground meat and topped with melted cheese for a healthy, low-carb dinner.

Dirty Rice with Ground Beef: A classic Cajun dish made with spicy ground meat, rice, and a flavorful mix of onions, peppers, and seasonings.

More Stir Fry Recipes

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• Zesty Chicken Stir-Fry with Lime
• Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry Recipe