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When I need a fast and satisfying meal, this ground beef stir-fry recipe is one I always come back to.
It uses simple ingredients, cooks in one pan, and comes together in less than 30 minutes.
I like how flexible it is because I can change the vegetables or sauce based on what I already have at home.
This recipe works well for busy weeknights, meal prep, or those days when I want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why I Love This Ground Beef Stir-Fry
I love this recipe because it is quick, affordable, and full of flavor.
Ground beef cooks faster than sliced meat, so dinner gets on the table sooner. It also absorbs sauces very well, which makes every bite tasty.
Another reason I enjoy this stir-fry is that it is easy to customize. I can make it mild or spicy, add more vegetables, or serve it with rice, noodles, or even lettuce wraps.
Ingredients You Will Need
Here are the basic ingredients I use for my ground beef stir-fry. These are easy to find and budget-friendly.
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1 pound ground beef
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2 tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable or sesame oil)
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1 medium onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup bell peppers, sliced
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1 cup broccoli florets
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1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
For the Stir-Fry Sauce
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¼ cup soy sauce
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce
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1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
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1 teaspoon grated ginger
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1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
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Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
How I Make Ground Beef Stir-Fry
This recipe is simple, and I follow these steps every time for great results.
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
I heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the oil. Once hot, I add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. I cook it until it is fully browned and no longer pink.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Next, I add the chopped onion and cook it for about 2 minutes until it softens. Then I stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another 30 seconds. This step adds a lot of flavor.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
I add the bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots to the pan. I stir-fry everything for about 4–5 minutes. I like my vegetables slightly crisp, so I avoid overcooking them.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
I pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce. Then I add the cornstarch mixture. I stir well and let it cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
Step 5: Taste and Serve
I taste the stir-fry and adjust seasoning if needed. Sometimes I add red pepper flakes for heat. Once done, I remove it from heat and serve immediately.
Serving Ideas
I usually serve this ground beef stir-fry over steamed white rice or brown rice. It also tastes great with fried rice or noodles.
On lighter days, I enjoy it in lettuce cups or with cauliflower rice.
This dish pairs well with simple sides like cucumber salad or steamed dumplings.
Tips for the Best Ground Beef Stir-Fry
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I use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
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I prep all ingredients before cooking because stir-frying moves fast.
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I cook on high heat to keep the vegetables crisp and flavorful.
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I do not overcrowd the pan, as this helps everything cook evenly.
Storage and Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When reheating, I use a skillet over medium heat or the microwave. I sometimes add a small splash of water to keep it from drying out.
Health Benefits
This ground beef stir-fry provides protein from the beef and vitamins from the vegetables.
By controlling the sauce and oil, I can keep the meal balanced and filling.
Adding more vegetables also increases fiber and nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein?
Yes, I often replace ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or pork.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
I use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.
Can I freeze ground beef stir-fry?
I do not recommend freezing it because the vegetables may become soft, but it can work if needed.
How can I make it spicy?
I add chili paste, sriracha, or extra red pepper flakes.
Ground Beef Stir-Fry Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the cooking oil.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, and water.
- Pour the sauce into the pan and stir well. Cook for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
- Prep all ingredients before cooking since stir-fry cooks quickly.
- Serve over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps.
