Name: Ground Beef Stir Fry with Vegetables and Ginger Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce; ⅓ cup water; 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (or honey, or brown sugar); 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 clove garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons canola oil (or neutral cooking oil of choice, divided); 1 pound lean ground beef; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 large bell pepper (seeded and cut into thin 1/8-inch slices); 1 large carrot (scrubbed and cut into thin, 2 x 1/4-inch matchsticks or thin 1/8-inch coins); 8 ounces green beans (trimmed and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces, or 3 cups broccoli florets); 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger (from about a 1-inch piece); ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (plus additional to taste); 1 small bunch green onions (thinly sliced, white/light green parts and dark green parts divided); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional for serving); Cooked brown rice or white rice (for serving)

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If you’re craving a meal that bursts with vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and satisfying textures, you absolutely have to try this Ground Beef Stir Fry with Vegetables and Ginger Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of lean ground beef mingling with crisp vegetables and the zing of fresh ginger, all coated in a luscious, slightly sweet soy-based sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this dish comes together quickly and delivers a wholesome, mouthwatering experience every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of colorful cooked vegetables in a dark pan, with green beans, thin orange carrot sticks, and long yellow pepper strips mixed together. The vegetables are shiny and look soft with a light sprinkle of black pepper. A wooden spatula is placed on the left side, slightly covered by the vegetables. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Ground Beef Stir Fry with Vegetables and Ginger Recipe uses simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients that truly elevate the dish. Each component adds balance, from the savory depth of soy sauce to the crispness of fresh veggies, creating a stir fry that’s as delicious as it is colorful.

Low-sodium soy sauce: Provides the salty, umami backbone while keeping sodium in check.
Water: Helps create the perfect stir fry sauce consistency when mixed with cornstarch.
Pure maple syrup: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory and spicy notes beautifully.
Cornstarch: Acts as a thickener to give the sauce a silky, clingy texture.
Sesame oil: Infuses the dish with a warm, toasty aroma that makes every bite irresistible.
Garlic (minced): Brings pungent, aromatic depth that enhances all the other flavors.
Canola oil: A neutral oil perfect for high-heat cooking, ensuring a great sear and stir.
Lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a luscious, meaty texture that holds up well in the stir fry.
Kosher salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to boost flavor without overpowering.
Bell pepper: Adds vibrant color and a pleasant crunch with a mild sweetness.
Carrot: Offers a natural sweetness plus a bright orange contrast.
Green beans or broccoli florets: Provide freshness and a satisfying bite to balance the meat.
Fresh ginger (minced): The star aromatics that bring a lively, spicy warmth to the stir fry.
Red pepper flakes: Sprinkle in just the right kick of heat to elevate the flavor profile.
Green onions: Adds a subtle oniony crunch and freshness, with the whites cooked and the greens reserved for garnish.
Sesame seeds (optional): For a final nutty crunch and visual appeal.
Cooked rice: The perfect bed for soaking up all those delicious stir fry flavors.

How to Make Ground Beef Stir Fry with Vegetables and Ginger Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Sauce

Begin by whisking together the low-sodium soy sauce, water, maple syrup, cornstarch, sesame oil, and minced garlic in a measuring cup. This sauce is what turns the stir fry into something truly special—it’s the luscious, savory-sweet hug that brings every ingredient together. Set it aside while you prep the rest to keep everything moving smoothly.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of canola oil. Once hot, add the ground beef seasoned with kosher salt and black pepper. Break it up with your spatula and cook until there’s no pink left and it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Then, scoop the beef out with a slotted spoon and set it aside—this step builds rich flavor and ensures the beef stays tender.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel to remove any browned bits, then add the remaining tablespoon of canola oil. Toss in the sliced bell pepper, carrot matchsticks, and cut green beans (or broccoli florets if you prefer). Stir frequently and cook until the veggies are crisp-tender, which takes about 4 minutes. This quick cooking time keeps vibrant colors and fresh crunch in the dish.

Step 4: Add Aromatics and Spice

Stir in the minced fresh ginger and red pepper flakes, allowing their fragrant, zesty aromas to infuse the vegetables for about 30 seconds. Then add the white and light green parts of the green onions—their sharpness deepens the flavor complexity at this stage.

Step 5: Combine and Thicken

Return the browned beef to the skillet and pour the prepared sauce over everything. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes as the sauce thickens and envelops the meat and veggies. This step is where the magic happens, binding all the components into a mouthwatering, glossy stir fry.

Step 6: Garnish and Finish

Finally, toss in the reserved green onion tops and sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra touch of texture and visual appeal. Give it a taste and adjust any seasoning if needed. Your Ground Beef Stir Fry with Vegetables and Ginger Recipe is now ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Ground Beef Stir Fry with Vegetables and Ginger Recipe

A white plate holds a base layer of light brown cooked rice, soft and slightly fluffy in texture. On top, there is a colorful stir-fry mix with thin long yellow bell pepper slices, bright orange carrot strips, and fresh green snap peas, all coated in a glossy dark brown sauce. Small pieces of cooked ground meat are mixed evenly through the vegetables, also covered in the thick sauce. The dish is sprinkled all over with white sesame seeds, adding a bit of texture contrast. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and there is a loosely folded white cloth with a simple black geometric pattern under part of the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshness and texture make all the difference, so don’t skip the green onion tops and sesame seeds! They add a lovely crunch and a burst of color. Feel free to add a wedge of lime or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro if you want a little extra zing and brightness.

Side Dishes

This stir fry pairs beautifully with a fluffy bed of steamed brown or white rice—the rice soaks up the savory-sweet sauce perfectly. For a low-carb twist, serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve the stir fry in edible lettuce cups or stuff it into warm pita pockets for an Asian-inspired wrap. You can also pile it over a bowl of noodles or quinoa for a hearty twist, making this Ground Beef Stir Fry with Vegetables and Ginger Recipe versatile enough to suit your cravings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your stir fry has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners on busy days.

Freezing

This stir fry freezes well if you want to prep ahead. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, label them, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember the texture of the vegetables may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavor will remain fantastic.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to life, heat the stir fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and help loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you prefer a leaner protein, though cooking times may be slightly shorter since these meats cook faster. You might want to keep an eye on seasoning as the flavors can be milder.

What vegetables work best in this stir fry?

The recipe shines with bell pepper, carrots, and green beans, but feel free to swap or add broccoli florets, snap peas, or mushrooms based on what you have on hand. Just be mindful of cooking times to keep everything crisp-tender.

Is this recipe spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat, but it’s not overwhelming. You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste. For no spice at all, simply leave them out and focus on the ginger’s warm zing.

Do I have to use maple syrup? Can I substitute it?

Maple syrup lends a natural sweetness that balances the soy sauce perfectly. You can swap it for honey or brown sugar if that’s what you have, but these might slightly alter the flavor profile. Experiment to find what you love best!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to ensure it’s gluten-free without sacrificing flavor. Be sure to double-check all other ingredients to keep it safe for your dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Stir Fry with Vegetables and Ginger Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate while still being fresh, quick, and nutritious. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. Trust me—once you try it, it’ll quickly become a favorite go-to meal that’s as reliable as it is delicious. Give it a whirl and enjoy every flavorful bite!

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