Quick Ground Beef Stir Fry With Rice

Name: Quick Ground Beef Stir Fry With Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 4 cups cooked rice; Chili flakes (optional); Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Easy Food Favorites

When I'm short on time but craving something hearty, this Quick Ground Beef Stir Fry With Rice becomes my go-to dish. I love how effortlessly it comes together, transforming simple ingredients into a flavorful meal. One of the biggest delights of making this stir fry is how adaptable it is. Whether I have leftover veggies or want to experiment with different sauces, this recipe invites creativity while keeping the process fast and straightforward. The satisfaction of a delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes is truly unbeatable!

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:31:12.465Z

One evening, I decided to challenge myself with a quick meal that didn’t compromise on flavor. I grabbed some ground beef and a medley of fresh vegetables, and the stir fry was born! The cooking technique keeps the beef juicy and the veggies crisp, creating an inviting color and aroma. I also discovered that a splash of soy sauce combined with ginger adds an incredible depth to the dish.

To elevate the experience, I like to serve it over steamed rice for an authentic touch. If you want to add a bit of heat, sprinkling some chili flakes works wonders. It’s moments like these that remind me how easy it is to prepare satisfying meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Dish
Quick and effortless to prepare for busy evenings
Packed with protein and vegetables for a balanced meal
Customizable with whatever ingredients you have on hand

Understanding the Ingredients

The key component of this Quick Ground Beef Stir Fry is the ground beef itself. It cooks quickly and infuses the dish with robust flavor. Opt for lean ground beef to keep the meal lighter, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner protein. These alternatives still work well but may require a touch more seasoning to achieve the same flavor profile.

The mix of vegetables is essential for not only adding color and texture but also for enhancing the nutritional value of the dish. Bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots provide crunch and sweetness. If you're looking to swap, consider snap peas, zucchini, or any leftover veggies you have. Just be mindful of cooking times, as softer vegetables like zucchini will cook faster than heartier ones like carrots.

Cooking Techniques for Success

To achieve that perfect stir fry texture, make sure you preheat your skillet adequately before adding the ground beef. Using medium-high heat allows the meat to sear quickly, locking in juices and preventing a soggy texture. If you notice the beef sticking, give it a little more time; it will naturally release from the pan as it cooks. Stir frequently to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.

When adding the garlic and ginger, it’s crucial not to overcook them. Just a minute is sufficient for them to become fragrant. Cooking them too long can lead to a bitter flavor. To achieve a well-seasoned stir fry, ensure you mix the soy sauce thoroughly with the vegetables and beef—look for a glossy finish that indicates everything is well-coated and flavorful.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start for a smoother cooking experience.

For the Stir Fry

1 lb ground beef
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For Serving

4 cups cooked rice
Chili flakes (optional)
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

After gathering everything, you'll be ready to stir fry and enjoy.

Instructions

Prepping your ingredients will make the cooking process a breeze!

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and cooked through.

Add Garlic and Ginger

Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Incorporate Vegetables

Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

Season the Mixture

Pour in the soy sauce, mixing well to ensure the beef and vegetables are evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Serve the stir fry over steamed rice, garnished with green onions and a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired.

Now enjoy your delicious, homemade stir fry!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try marinating the beef in soy sauce for 15 minutes before cooking, or experiment with different proteins like chicken or tofu.

Tips for Serving

When serving, a fluffy bed of rice compliments the stir fry beautifully. I recommend using jasmine or basmati rice for their aromatic qualities, but any cooked rice will suffice. To elevate the presentation, consider laying the stir fry over the rice rather than mixing it in. This allows the vibrant colors of the vegetables to shine through, making the dish more visually appealing.

To add an extra punch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top before serving. They add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, don’t shy away from drizzling some sriracha or adding more chili flakes to individual servings.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This stir fry keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. To store, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. When reheating, do so on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir frequently until heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

If you're planning to make this dish in advance, consider undercooking the vegetables slightly. They will cook further during reheating, ensuring they remain vibrant and crunchy rather than overcooked and mushy. Alternatively, you can store the beef and veggies separately and combine just before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Just add them directly to the skillet without thawing.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I add noodles instead of rice?

Yes, replace rice with cooked noodles for a delicious twist on this recipe.