This 30-Minute Beef Stir Fry is the perfect weeknight dinner. It’s quick, flavorful, and full of colorful vegetables. When you’re short on time but want a healthy and satisfying meal, this dish comes to the rescue. With its tender beef and crisp veggies, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You Will Love This Beef Stir Fry
This dish is loved for its simplicity and delicious taste. It takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for busy evenings. Using everyday ingredients means you likely already have everything on hand. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your family’s favorites—just toss in whatever vegetables you like!
How to Make Beef Stir Fry
Making this beef stir fry is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You’ll start by marinating the beef for a bit, which adds richness to the flavors. Then, everything cooks up quickly in one go. That means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal!
What You Need
- 1 pound beef (sliced thinly)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, etc.)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
Step-by-Step
- In a bowl, combine beef, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, stir-fry for 30 seconds.
- Add the marinated beef and cook until browned.
- Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry until veggies are tender-crisp.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles.
How to Serve Beef Stir Fry
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. You might add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions for extra flavor. It’s great for a cozy family dinner or even when you have friends over!
How to Store Beef Stir Fry
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy them within 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a pan over low heat until warmed through.
Recipe Tips
- Slice the beef against the grain for a more tender bite.
- Marinating for the suggested time enhances flavor but can be done for longer if needed.
- Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables; just aim for a mix of colors for health.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding sriracha or chili flakes.
- Always have your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking to make the process smoother.
Variations & Swaps
- Protein Swap: Try chicken, shrimp, or tofu as an alternative to beef.
- Vegetable Variety: Use snap peas, zucchini, or even mushrooms for a different taste.
- Make It Kid-Friendly: Reduce the soy sauce for less sodium or add a bit of honey for sweetness.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the beef several hours in advance or even overnight. Just cook and serve when you’re ready. If you prepare it for meal prep, keep the sauce separate to prevent sogginess in the vegetables.
Can I freeze the stir fry?
Absolutely. Make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for about 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring frequently to warm it evenly. You can add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. For quicker reheating, use the microwave, but do it gradually to maintain textures.
What can I serve with this dish?
Serve it alongside rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad. You could also pair it with spring rolls or dumplings for a fun meal.
What mistakes should I avoid when making stir fry?
Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this lowers the temperature and steams instead of stir-frying. Also, be careful not to overcook the vegetables; they should be tender-crisp for the best texture.
Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound beef (sliced thinly) Slice against the grain for tenderness.
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, etc.) Feel free to substitute with your family’s favorites.
Sauces and Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch Helps in thickening the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil Use for stir-frying.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Serving Suggestions
- Cooked rice or noodles For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine beef, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
Cooking
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, stir-fry for 30 seconds.
- Add the marinated beef and cook until browned.
- Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry until veggies are tender-crisp.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles.
