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); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional); Green onions for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Fast Plate Creations

I love whipping up this Quick Ground Beef Stir Fry with Rice when I'm short on time but crave something hearty and delicious. It's the perfect weeknight meal, packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of tender ground beef, crisp vegetables, and fluffy rice always hits the spot. Plus, it only takes 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a lifesaver for busy days. I enjoy experimenting with different vegetables based on what I have on hand, which keeps this dish fresh and exciting each time I make it.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:58:10.932Z

When I first made this Quick Ground Beef Stir Fry with Rice, I was surprised by how simple yet flavorful it turned out. By using high-heat cooking, I lock in the juices of the beef while giving the vegetables that perfect crunch. The secret is to have everything prepped and ready to go; this allows for a seamless cooking process that keeps me from losing my momentum.

Over the years, I've learned that adding a splash of soy sauce and a hint of garlic elevate the dish, turning it into a family favorite. If time permits, I love letting the beef marinate for a few minutes; it makes a significant difference in flavor. This stir fry is not just quick; it’s a canvas for creativity with ingredients that are readily available in my kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy for those busy weeknights
Versatile recipe to use up whatever vegetables you have
Deliciously savory flavor from fresh ingredients
Comforting and filling, perfect for the whole family

Choosing the Right Vegetables

One of the beauties of this Quick Ground Beef Stir Fry is its versatility when it comes to vegetables. While bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots are a delicious combination, you can easily substitute them with whatever you have on hand. Snap peas, zucchini, or even spinach work beautifully. Just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking—typically, around 1-inch size works well—so they cook through while maintaining a nice crunch.

Cooking times can vary based on the vegetable choice; denser vegetables like carrots may need a few extra minutes. To achieve that ideal crisp-tender texture, be mindful of the cooking time to avoid sogginess. Always add the denser vegetables first, letting them cook for about 2-3 minutes before introducing softer ones to the mix.

Rice Preparation Tips

Cooking fluffy rice is essential for a successful stir fry. Using long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati not only adds a lovely aroma but also helps achieve that perfect texture. Ensure you rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which can lead to clumping. After cooking, let it sit covered for about 5-10 minutes before fluffing with a fork—this helps separate the grains for a better bite in your final dish.

If you're short on time, consider using leftover rice or even pre-cooked rice packets available in stores. This can save you about 20 minutes, which is precious when you're in a hurry. Just toss the rice into the skillet right after the meat and vegetables are done cooking, allowing it to heat through while absorbing some flavors from the stir fry.

Customizing Flavor Profiles

The flavor of this stir fry can easily be customized to suit your personal taste. For a kick of heat, add some red pepper flakes or Sriracha when mixing in the soy sauce. If you prefer a sweeter note, a touch of honey or toasted sesame oil can elevate the flavors. Another great variation is to use different types of soy sauce; for instance, using a dark soy sauce can enrich the dish with a deeper color and more robust flavor.

Don’t forget about garnishes! A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions not only adds visual appeal but also gives extra crunch and freshness. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a drizzle of hoisin or oyster sauce just before serving to add additional depth to the dish.

Ingredients

For the stir fry

1 lb ground beef
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the rice

2 cups cooked rice
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Green onions for garnish (optional)

Mix and match the vegetables based on your preference!

Instructions

Prepare the rice

If you haven't done so already, cook the rice according to package instructions. Set aside.

Cook the meat

In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned.

Add vegetables and aromatics

Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, and mixed vegetables. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender.

Finish with sauce

Add the soy sauce to the skillet, mixing well to combine all ingredients. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve the ground beef stir fry over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to use leftover vegetables or whatever you have available. The flavor profile is versatile!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This ground beef stir fry is a fantastic dish to prepare ahead of time. The beef and vegetable mix can be cooked a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove over medium heat until hot, adding a splash of soy sauce or a bit of water to keep the mixture moist. This reheating method not only saves you time but also can enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.

If you anticipate leftovers, consider freezing the stir fry in an airtight container. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it quickly in a skillet, just as you would with freshly cooked stir fry. Avoid refreezing already thawed products for food safety reasons.

Scaling Up the Recipe

Scaling up this stir fry for a larger group is straightforward. Simply increase the quantities of ground beef and vegetables proportionately. For example, if you're making this for a family gathering, doubling the recipe requires only minor adjustments in cooking time, so keep an eye on the pan to avoid steaming instead of stir frying. You might need a larger skillet or a second pan if the mix becomes too crowded.

When increasing the ingredients, ensure you still keep the flavors balanced. Adding a bit more soy sauce and seasonings can help maintain the taste. Tasting as you go is key to making delicious adjustments, especially if you double or triple the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

This Quick Ground Beef Stir Fry pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Fresh or pickled cucumber salad can add a refreshing contrast, while steamed dumplings bring an amazing texture contrast to the meal. If you're looking for a lighter option, serve the stir fry over a bed of leafy greens—think bok choy or spinach—for a fresh twist on the classic dish.

Another idea is to serve it in lettuce cups for a fun, interactive twist. Simply spoon the stir fry mixture into large lettuce leaves and enjoy it as a handheld meal. This not only cuts down on carbs but also adds a refreshing crunch that complements the savory beef perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different meat instead of beef?

Yes, ground chicken, turkey, or even tofu can be great substitutes.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a teaspoon of chili paste or fresh chopped chili peppers when cooking the meat.

→ Is this stir fry meal prep friendly?

Absolutely! You can prepare the components ahead of time and cook them fresh for quick meals.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

Serve with a side of steamed dumplings or a fresh salad for a complete meal.