Easy Beef Stir Fry Recipe

This easy beef stir fry is a quick and delicious dish featuring tender beef slices and colorful vegetables tossed in a savory sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and ready in about 30 minutes
• Balanced with protein and veggies
• Customizable with your favorite vegetables
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Tastes like takeout but healthier and homemade

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Thinly sliced beef (flank steak, sirloin, or round)
• Broccoli florets
• Bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
• Carrots
• Snap peas or snow peas
• Garlic and ginger
• Soy sauce
• Beef broth or water
• Honey or brown sugar
• Sesame oil
• Cornstarch
• Vegetable oil
• Green onions (optional for garnish)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

Directions

1. Prepare ingredients: Thinly slice the beef against the grain. Chop vegetables into bite-size pieces.
2. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, broth, honey, sesame oil, and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Cook the beef: Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Stir-fry beef in batches for 2–3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook vegetables: In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Stir-fry firmer vegetables like carrots and broccoli for 2–3 minutes, then add peppers and peas.
5. Add aromatics: Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Combine and finish: Return the beef to the pan. Pour in the sauce and cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
7. Serve: Garnish with green onions and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15–20 minutes
• Cook time: 10–12 minutes
• Total time: ~30 minutes

Variations

• Substitute beef with chicken, shrimp, tofu, or pork
• Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option
• Add spice with Sriracha, chili paste, or extra red pepper flakes
• Include mushrooms, baby corn, or bok choy
• Try a hoisin-based or oyster sauce variation for a different flavor profile

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months
• Reheat:
  • Stovetop: Reheat in a pan with a splash of water or broth
  • Microwave: Heat in 90-second intervals, stirring in between
  • Air fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 3–5 minutes

FAQs

How do I keep the beef tender?

Slice thinly against the grain and cook quickly over high heat. A short marinade can also help.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prep the ingredients and sauce in advance to save time.

What’s the best beef cut for stir fry?

Flank steak, sirloin, or top round are great choices due to their tenderness and quick cooking.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely—use tofu or tempeh and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Cornstarch is the best option. Make a slurry with cold water before adding it to the pan.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, but thaw and drain them before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

Is this dish spicy?

It can be mild or spicy depending on whether you add red pepper flakes or chili paste.

What’s the best oil to use?

Use a neutral high-smoke-point oil like canola, vegetable, or avocado oil.

Should I cook everything together or in batches?

Cook in batches to ensure the beef and veggies sear rather than steam.

What sides go well with beef stir fry?

Serve with white or brown rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

Conclusion

Easy beef stir fry is a go-to recipe for delicious dinners in under 30 minutes. It’s flexible, flavorful, and perfect for using up whatever veggies you have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers every time.

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