Ground Beef Stir Fry (Easy, Flavorful, 30-Minute Meal)
This protein-packed stir-fry goes from stovetop to table in under 30 minutes, making it one of those weeknight recipes you’ll come back to again and again. It’s simple, colorful, budget-friendly, and loaded with flavor. Plus, the leftovers reheat beautifully for a high-protein lunch the next day—always a win.
Lean ground beef cooks quickly and pairs perfectly with crisp veggies, creating a satisfying meal that tastes great over rice or noodles. Whether I’m in the mood for something wholesome or just need a fast, reliable dinner, this is one of my go-to recipes. And on days when I want a little variety, swapping the beef for chicken works just as well.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Stir Fry
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Ready in less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
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A true one-pan recipe, meaning easier cooking and even easier cleanup.
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Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, with simple ingredient swaps available.
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Packed with protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, and plenty of nourishing flavors.
Key Ingredients
Lean ground beef – Choosing 90–93% lean beef keeps this dish light while still delivering tons of flavor. It’s protein-rich, versatile, and budget-friendly—perfect for quick meals or weekly meal prep.
Coconut aminos – A savory, slightly sweet alternative to soy sauce. Its mellow taste works perfectly in stir-fries. If you’re out of coconut aminos, tamari or low-sodium soy sauce can step in.
Fresh ginger – Adds warmth, brightness, and all the benefits ginger is known for. When I’m out of fresh ginger, I replace it with 1 teaspoon dried ground ginger.
Toasted sesame oil – The secret to that nutty, rich stir-fry aroma. If needed, olive oil can be used instead.
Exact ingredient measurements are listed in the full recipe card below.
Serving Ideas
This stir-fry shines when served over:
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Jasmine or basmati rice
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Brown rice
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Cauliflower rice
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Ramen noodles
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Freezing makes this meal ideal for prepping ahead.
To reheat:
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Warm in a skillet over medium heat, or
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Microwave individual portions until hot
For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this with ground turkey?
Yes! While I usually make this recipe with beef, one reader shared a 5-star review after using lean ground turkey:
“This was really good. I used lean ground turkey, as I don’t eat beef. My husband enjoyed it too. Thanks for a great recipe.” — Helen
What are the three rules of stir-frying?
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Prep everything first. Stir-frying is fast, so all ingredients should be chopped, measured, and ready before you heat the pan.
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Use high heat. High heat creates a quick sear and keeps veggies crisp. Preheat your skillet or wok before adding oil.
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Cook in the right order. Start with aromatics and vegetables, remove them, cook the protein separately, then bring everything back together with sauces.
How can I thicken the stir-fry sauce?
If your sauce is thinner than you’d like, whisk 1–2 teaspoons cornstarch with the same amount of water to make a slurry. Add it to the skillet and simmer until thickened.
