Ground Beef Stir Fry: Easy Recipe & Quick Cooking Tips

Ground beef stir fry: the weeknight dinner champion you didn’t know you needed! Are you tired of the same old boring dinners? Do you crave something quick, flavorful, and satisfying that won’t leave you chained to the stove for hours? Then prepare to be amazed, because this recipe is about to become your new best friend.

Stir-fries, in general, have a rich history rooted in Asian cuisine, particularly Chinese cooking techniques. The rapid cooking over high heat in a wok preserves the vibrant flavors and textures of the ingredients. While the exact origins of using ground beef in a stir-fry are harder to pinpoint, it’s a brilliant adaptation that brings affordability and ease to this classic cooking method.

What makes a ground beef stir fry so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of savory, slightly sweet, and umami flavors, all mingling together in a symphony of deliciousness. The ground beef cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce beautifully, while the vegetables retain a delightful crisp-tender texture. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite veggies and sauces, making it a dish that truly reflects your personal taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to be a success. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or canola oil)
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, peeled and minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup sliced carrots
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional, but adds great depth)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Cooked rice, for serving (jasmine or brown rice recommended)
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
• Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Ground Beef:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain Excess Fat: Once the beef is browned, carefully drain off any excess fat from the skillet. This will help prevent the stir-fry from becoming greasy. I usually tilt the pan and use a spoon to hold back the beef while pouring the fat into a heat-safe container.
3. Season the Beef: Season the browned beef with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remember that the soy sauce will also add saltiness, so don’t overdo it at this stage.
4. Set Aside: Remove the browned beef from the skillet and set it aside in a bowl. We’ll add it back in later.

Preparing the Sauce:

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), cornstarch, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to prevent lumps in the sauce.
2. Add Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): If you like a little heat, add the red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. Adjust the amount to your preference. I usually start with 1/2 teaspoon and add more if needed.
3. Set Aside: Set the sauce aside. We’ll use it later to coat the vegetables and beef.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet or wok (no need to wash it), add the sliced onion. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add Bell Peppers and Carrots: Add the sliced bell peppers (both red and green) and sliced carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until the peppers are slightly softened but still crisp-tender.
4. Add Broccoli Florets: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender. You want the vegetables to retain some of their crunch.
5. Adjust Cooking Time: The cooking time for the vegetables may vary depending on their size and your preference for tenderness. If you prefer softer vegetables, cook them for a few minutes longer.

Bringing it All Together:

1. Return the Beef to the Skillet: Add the browned ground beef back to the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Pour in the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables.
3. Stir-Fry Until Thickened: Stir-fry continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables evenly. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes. The cornstarch in the sauce will help it thicken quickly.
4. Ensure Even Coating: Make sure all the beef and vegetables are coated with the sauce. Stir constantly to prevent sticking and burning.
5. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stir-fry and adjust the seasoning as needed. If it’s not salty enough, add a little more soy sauce. If it’s too salty, add a splash of water or a squeeze of lemon juice. If it needs more sweetness, add a pinch more brown sugar.
6. Cook to Desired Consistency: Continue to cook until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook it for a minute or two longer. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little water.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Serve Over Rice: Serve the ground beef stir-fry hot over cooked rice. Jasmine rice and brown rice are both excellent choices.
2. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and visual appeal.
3. Add a Side Dish: Consider serving with a side dish such as egg rolls, spring rolls, or a simple salad.
4. Adjust Portion Sizes: Adjust the portion sizes to your liking. This recipe typically serves 4-6 people.
5. Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Tips and Variations:

• Use Different Vegetables: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables to the stir-fry. Some good options include snow peas, mushrooms, water chestnuts, and baby corn.
• Add Protein: You can also add other protein sources, such as tofu, chicken, or shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Make it Spicy: If you like it extra spicy, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil.
• Use Different Sauces: Experiment with different sauces, such as hoisin sauce, teriyaki sauce, or black bean sauce.
• Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet stir-fry, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
• Make it Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
• Prep Ahead: You can save time by prepping the vegetables and sauce ahead of time. Store them in separate containers in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• Use a Wok: While a skillet works well, a wok is ideal for stir-frying because its sloped sides allow for even heat distribution and easy tossing.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature and result in steamed vegetables instead of stir-fried vegetables. Cook in batches if necessary.
• High Heat is Key: Stir-frying is best done over high heat to ensure the vegetables are cooked quickly and retain their crispness.
• Constant Stirring: The key to a good stir-fry is constant stirring. This prevents the ingredients from sticking and burning and ensures even cooking.
• Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a little water. If it’s too thin, cook it for a minute or two longer to allow it to reduce.
• Consider Marinating the Beef: For extra flavor, you can marinate the ground beef before cooking. A simple marinade of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic will work well.
• Add Nuts: For added crunch and flavor, consider adding some chopped peanuts or cashews to the stir-fry.
• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or basil can add a bright and fresh flavor to the stir-fry.

Detailed Ingredient Notes:

• Ground Beef: I prefer using 80/20 ground beef for this recipe because it has a good balance of flavor and fat. The fat helps to keep the beef moist and adds richness to the stir-fry. You can use leaner ground beef if you prefer, but you may need to add a little extra oil to the skillet to prevent it from sticking.
• Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil or canola oil are good choices for stir-frying because they have a high smoke point. This means they can withstand high heat without burning.
• Onion: Yellow onion is a versatile choice for stir-frying. It adds a mild sweetness and

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! I truly believe this ground beef stir fry recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal. The combination of savory ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and that irresistible umami-packed sauce creates a symphony of tastes that will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative with your vegetables. Bell peppers, broccoli florets, snap peas, or even shredded carrots would all be fantastic additions. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little extra heat. For a sweeter twist, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the sauce can work wonders. Serving Suggestions: * Serve it over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a complete and balanced meal. * For a low-carb option, enjoy it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. * Wrap it in lettuce cups for a light and refreshing appetizer or snack. * Add a fried egg on top for extra protein and richness. * Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of toasted peanuts for added texture and flavor. I’ve personally made this recipe countless times, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. It’s become a staple in our household because it’s so adaptable and satisfying. I often find myself tweaking it based on what I have on hand, and it always turns out delicious. Variations to Explore: * Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or gochujang to the sauce for a fiery kick. * Sweet and Savory: Incorporate pineapple chunks or mandarin oranges for a touch of sweetness. * Mushroom Magic: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the ground beef for an earthy flavor. * Nutty Delight: Add chopped cashews or almonds for a crunchy texture. * Ginger Zing: Increase the amount of ginger in the sauce for a more pronounced ginger flavor. I’m confident that you’ll love this ground beef stir fry as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a potluck with friends. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your wok (or skillet!), and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I can’t wait to hear about your experience! Please, please, please try this recipe. Once you’ve tried it, I’d absolutely love to hear what you think! Share your photos and comments on social media using [Your Hashtag Here] or leave a review below. Let me know what variations you tried and how you made it your own. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me create even better recipes for you in the future. Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this ground beef stir fry as much as I do!

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