Sizzling Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ground Beef Stir Fry
Introduction
Ground Beef Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together the savory taste of beef and fresh vegetables. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, providing a satisfying and nutritious meal in under 30 minutes. Packed with protein and fiber, this stir fry is a family favorite that is both delicious and easy to make.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Ground Beef Stir Fry. It’s simple, fast, and uses just a few ingredients, making it a great option for those who want to cook something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of ground beef and a variety of colorful vegetables not only offers a delightful taste but also makes it visually appealing. Plus, this dish is versatile and can be customized according to your taste preferences!
How to Make Ground Beef Stir Fry
Making Ground Beef Stir Fry is straightforward. Here’s how to do it.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound 80-20 ground beef
- 2 medium zucchini (sliced)
- 8 ounces brown mushrooms or baby Bella (sliced)
- 1 carrot julienned
- Chives or green onions (optional for garnish)
- 3 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (I used GF Tamari)
- 3 Tbsp BBQ sauce (original, sweet or smoky)
- 2 Tbsp real maple syrup
- 2 garlic cloves (grated or minced)
- 1 tsp ginger (grated, or use 1 cube frozen ginger, or 1/4 tsp ground ginger)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
Directions:
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Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine all of the sauce ingredients and set aside.
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Brown the Beef: Set a large skillet or wok over medium/high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the ground beef and sauté, breaking it up with a spatula for about 5 minutes or until fully cooked and lightly browned. Transfer the beef to a bowl, keeping any oil in the pan.
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Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and add all your veggies. Sauté and stir frequently for 2-3 minutes or until the zucchini is half done and crunchy. Don’t overcook them because they’ll continue to cook with the sauce.
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Add the Ground Beef and Sauce: Return the cooked ground beef to the pan, and add the sauce. Stir to combine. Cook for another two minutes or until fragrant. The zucchini should be crisp-tender.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste and remove from heat. Serve over freshly cooked rice or in lettuce cups. Garnish with chives if desired.
How to Serve Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ground Beef Stir Fry can be served over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. You can also wrap it in lettuce cups for a lighter version. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed rice or noodles, making it a versatile option for any meal.
How to Store Ground Beef Stir Fry
To store leftover Ground Beef Stir Fry, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Ground Beef Stir Fry
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.
- Adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste, adding more sweetener or soy sauce as desired.
Variation
You can make this dish gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce. Additionally, swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken can create a different flavor profile while remaining delicious.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
2. How do I make it spicy?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and veggies ahead of time and store them separately until you’re ready to cook. It’s a great meal prep option!
With these simple steps and tips, you’ll have a tasty Ground Beef Stir Fry ready in no time. Enjoy your cooking!
Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound 80-20 ground beef Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- 2 medium zucchini (sliced) Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
- 8 ounces brown mushrooms or baby Bella (sliced)
- 1 medium carrot (julienned)
- 3 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce Use GF Tamari for gluten-free option.
- 3 Tbsp BBQ sauce (original, sweet or smoky)
- 2 Tbsp real maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic (grated or minced)
- 1 tsp ginger (grated) Can use 1 cube frozen ginger or 1/4 tsp ground ginger.
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- Chives or green onions (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine all of the sauce ingredients and set aside.
Cooking
- Set a large skillet or wok over medium/high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Add the ground beef and sauté, breaking it up with a spatula for about 5 minutes or until fully cooked and lightly browned. Transfer the beef to a bowl, keeping any oil in the pan.
- Add a little more oil if needed and add all your veggies. Sauté and stir frequently for 2-3 minutes or until the zucchini is half done and crunchy.
- Return the cooked ground beef to the pan, and add the sauce. Stir to combine. Cook for another two minutes or until fragrant.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and remove from heat. Serve over freshly cooked rice or in lettuce cups, garnished with chives if desired.
