Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A quick and delicious ground beef and veggie stir fry that is perfect for busy weeknights.
This ground beef and veggie stir fry is a family favorite. It's not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients. The combination of tender beef and crunchy vegetables makes it a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Packed with protein and vitamins from fresh vegetables
- Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Versatile - customize with your favorite veggies
A Quick and Nutritious Meal
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a healthy dinner can be a challenge. This Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is designed to be a quick yet nutritious option that you can whip up in no time. With a cooking time of just around 15-20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.
By incorporating a variety of fresh vegetables, this stir fry not only boosts the flavor but also adds essential vitamins and minerals to your meal. The colorful bell peppers, crunchy broccoli, and sweet carrots not only make the dish visually appealing but also provide a range of health benefits. Eating a rainbow of vegetables is a great way to ensure you're getting a balanced intake of nutrients.
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best features of this stir fry is its versatility. You can easily customize it to fit your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you prefer green beans, snap peas, or even zucchini, feel free to swap out the mixed vegetables for your favorites. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for families with varying tastes or dietary restrictions.
Additionally, you can enhance the flavor profile by adding different sauces or spices. Consider trying teriyaki sauce for a sweeter twist or a splash of chili sauce if you like a bit of heat. The possibilities are endless, making this dish not only practical but also exciting to prepare week after week.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking to make your week even easier, this Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go.
To further simplify your meal prep, consider chopping your vegetables in advance. This way, when it’s time to cook, you can just toss everything in the skillet. It saves time and ensures that you’re more likely to stick to your healthy eating goals, even on the busiest days.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand.
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
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
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Storage Tips
Leftovers from your Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, be sure to let the dish cool down to room temperature before sealing it to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
If you want to keep your stir fry for a longer period, consider freezing it. Portion the stir fry into freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to label your containers with the date for easy tracking.
Serving Suggestions
This stir fry is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. While it pairs beautifully with steamed rice, you can also serve it over quinoa for a protein-packed alternative. Noodles are another excellent option; try serving it over soba or rice noodles for a different texture.
Looking to add even more flavor? Top your stir fry with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions, or sprinkle some sesame seeds for a delightful crunch. A squeeze of lime juice right before serving can also elevate the dish, adding a refreshing zest that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Benefits
Ground beef is not only a great source of protein but also provides essential nutrients like iron and zinc, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Combined with the array of vegetables, this dish offers a healthy dose of fiber and antioxidants, contributing to overall wellness.
The variety of vegetables included in this stir fry contributes to heart health and can help with weight management. The vitamins and minerals found in bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots support immune function and promote healthy skin. This dish is not just a meal; it's a step towards a healthier lifestyle.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative.
→ What vegetables can I use?
You can use any vegetables you like such as snap peas, zucchini, or spinach.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stir fry and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
A quick and delicious ground beef and veggie stir fry that is perfect for busy weeknights.
Created by: Natalie Warren
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stir Fry
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 25g