If you are searching for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner option, this Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe is about to become your go-to. Packed with tender ground beef, vibrant veggies, and a luscious homemade sauce, this dish balances savory, sweet, and tangy notes perfectly. It’s a simple recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you crave something comforting and fresh. Plus, the mixture of textures and colors makes every bite exciting and delightful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to create a perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and colors. From the lean ground beef that provides a hearty base to the fresh vegetables that add crunch and brightness, every component plays a crucial role.
- Lean ground beef (1 pound): Use lean to keep the dish hearty without excess grease.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle richness and helps sauté the veggies beautifully.
- Onion (1/2 medium, bite-sized pieces): Brings a sweet and aromatic foundation to the stir fry.
- Cremini mushrooms (5 ounces, quartered): Adds earthiness and a tender texture.
- Red bell pepper (1 medium, chopped): Infuses vibrant color and a mild sweetness.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups, cut small): Delivers a fresh crunch and a nice dose of green goodness.
- Matchstick cut carrots (1/2 cup): Provides a hint of natural sweetness and crispness.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Balances the savory elements with a touch of gentle sweetness.
- Fresh ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Injects a fragrant warmth and subtle zing.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Delivers robust aroma and depth.
- Hoisin sauce (3 tablespoons): Adds a rich, sweet-savory base with complex layers.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings salty umami goodness to the mix.
- Apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar (1 teaspoon): Provides a bright acidity to balance the richer ingredients.
- Beef broth or water (1/2 cup): Helps create the perfect sauce consistency without overpowering flavors.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the sauce to a glossy finish.
- Optional garnishes – chopped scallions and sesame seeds: For an extra pop of flavor and crunch on top.
How to Make Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Sauce
Starting off strong means having everything chopped and measured before cooking. This prep sets you up for smooth cooking without last-minute scrambling. Mix together brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, beef broth, and cornstarch in a bowl—this homemade sauce really sets this Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe apart with its balanced sweet and tangy depth.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Place your ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break it apart with your spoon and cook for about 10 minutes until it is no longer pink and nicely browned. Browning the meat well adds flavor through caramelization, which is essential for a rich and savory dish. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a separate plate to keep it juicy and prevent overcooking.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
Using the same skillet, add the olive oil, then toss in the onions. Sauté them for about a minute, just until they start to soften and release their sweetness. This step enhances the dish by building layers of flavor, marrying the sweet notes of the onion with the beefiness you’ve just cooked.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
Next, add mushrooms, red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and matchstick carrots to the skillet. Stir and cook for 3 to 4 minutes so the veggies become tender-crisp. This ensures you get a delightful crunch without losing their vibrant colors or nutrients. You can cook them a little longer if you prefer softer vegetables, but keeping some texture makes every bite interesting.
Step 5: Combine Beef and Sauce
Return the browned ground beef to the skillet and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir well so everything is coated, then let the sauce cook and thicken for a minute or two. This bubbling step helps the cornstarch set, resulting in a glossy, clingy sauce that complements every component perfectly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe is now ready to be served! The inviting aroma will draw everyone to the table. Spoon it over steaming rice or noodles and add the optional garnishes like chopped scallions and sesame seeds for a professional touch and an added layer of flavor.
How to Serve Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped scallions brings a fresh, mild onion flavor along with a burst of green color. Toasted sesame seeds offer subtle nuttiness and a light crunch that elevate the dish’s texture. Both garnishes not only add complexity but also transform the presentation from simple to stunning in seconds.
Side Dishes
The stir fry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or brown rice, which soak up the delicious sauce. For a low-carb option, serve alongside cauliflower rice or spiralized noodles. Consider a light Asian-inspired cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast that balances the meal’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, scoop the stir fry into lettuce cups for handheld bites that add crispness and freshness. Another creative approach is serving it over warm rice paper sheets rolled like spring rolls. These ideas make the meal interactive and perfect for sharing with friends or family, turning an everyday dinner into a memorable experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully overnight, so leftovers can be just as delicious, if not better, the next day. Be sure to cool completely before storing to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish for longer, freezing is a great option. Transfer cooled stir fry into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Avoid freezing garnishes like scallions and sesame seeds; add them fresh after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking and to warm the ingredients evenly. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Microwaving works well too, but be sure to cover the dish to trap steam and keep everything moist.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well with the flavors in this stir fry. Keep in mind it cooks a bit faster and can dry out easier, so watch the cooking time closely and consider adding a little extra sauce for moisture.
What vegetable substitutions work best for this stir fry?
Feel free to swap or add veggies like snap peas, zucchini, baby corn, or water chestnuts depending on what you like or have on hand. The key is to keep a nice balance of textures and colors to keep your Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe bright and exciting.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Double-check your hoisin sauce label, as some brands contain gluten; gluten-free versions are available in many stores.
Is this stir fry spicy? Can I add heat?
This recipe is mild by default, making it kid-friendly and versatile. If you love heat, add crushed red pepper flakes, a splash of sriracha, or diced fresh chili peppers when you add the sauce for a spicy kick.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Definitely. You can chop veggies and whisk the sauce ahead of time to cut down active cooking time. Brown the beef earlier in the day and store it chilled; then quickly combine everything when ready to cook for an even faster dinner.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe a try soon because it’s one of those dishes that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. It combines simplicity and bursting flavor in a way that feels both comforting and exciting. Whether for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this stir fry is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Print
Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and flavorful ground beef stir fry packed with vibrant vegetables and a savory hoisin-based sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish showcases tender beef, crisp-tender broccoli, mushrooms, bell peppers, and carrots all cooked in a delicious, thickened sauce. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein & Fats
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables
- 1/2 medium onion, cut into bite-size pieces
- 5 ounces cremini mushrooms, quartered
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups broccoli florets, cut small
- 1/2 cup matchstick-cut carrots
Sauce & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped scallions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients and Sauce: Gather and prep all vegetables by chopping and cutting them as directed. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, beef broth, and cornstarch to create the stir fry sauce.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, approximately 10 minutes. Make sure the beef is no longer pink.
- Drain Fat and Set Beef Aside: Carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate or bowl and set aside temporarily.
- Sauté Onions: Return the skillet to the heat and add the olive oil. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about one minute until slightly softened.
- Cook Vegetables: Add mushrooms, red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and matchstick carrots to the skillet. Stir and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until vegetables become tender-crisp. Continue cooking longer if you prefer softer vegetables.
- Combine Beef and Sauce: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and stir well. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle boil and thicken for about 1 to 2 minutes while stirring to evenly coat the beef and vegetables.
- Season and Serve: Taste the stir fry and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and improve texture.
- Vegetables can be varied depending on preference; snap peas or zucchini work well too.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase cornstarch to 1.5 tablespoons.
- Serve hot over steamed white rice, brown rice, or your favorite noodles.
- For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Keep stirring after adding sauce to avoid clumping.
