Beef Stir-Fry Recipe

What is my go-to meal when I’m craving something delicious? What is satisfying, and, let’s be honest, FAST? How can I make a Beef Stir-Fry? Think of it as the weeknight superhero, swooping in to save the day when you’re tired. I’m hungry, and just can’t face another complicated recipe. Is it faster to make mac and cheese from scratch? My family literally cheers when they see it on the menu.

Beef Stir-Fry Recipe final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is Beef Stir-Fry?

What are some of the best ways to make a beef stir-fry? It’s a Chinese-inspired dish featuring tender strips of beef, vibrant veggies, and savory sauce. All cooked together over high heat. Think of it as a customizable flavor explosion where you can add your favorite veggies and adjust accordingly. How do I make a sauce to your liking? What is the best way to get a balanced meal on the table? My version, though, is a little bit *extra* – it’s got an ingredient that takes it over the top. What is the top (more on that later! )?

Why you will love this recipe?

Where do I start with this Beef Stir-Fry Recipe? What I love most is how adaptable it is. What are some good ways to use whatever veggies you have in your fridge? What are some of the reasons why this is a staple in your home?

  • Flavor Fiesta:What is the combination of savory beef, crisp veggies, and umami-rich sauce? What is the secret ingredient in this flavor explosion? Is it necessary to add sesame oil at the end of a meal?
  • Speed Demon:From prep to plate, this dish is ready in less than 30 minutes. What are some of the best recipes for a busy weeknight when you just don’t have the time or the energy to cook. What is a complicated
  • Budget FriendlyWhat are some of the best ways to use cheap cuts of beef (like flank steak or sirloin) and load up on veggies? What are the best foods to eat: broccoli, carrots, and bell pepper Plus, you probably already have most of the sauce ingredients in your pantry.
  • Versatility Queen:Serve it over rice, noodles, quinoa, or even enjoy it as a lettuce wrap for low-carb options. What are some good leftovers for a party?

What is the best Pad Thai recipe? What is saying? What are some of the best Beef Stir-Fry recipes? If you like it spicy, add some chili flakes or honey. What are the endless possibilities?

How do I make Beef Stir-Fry?

Quick Overview

How do you make a simple Beef Stir-Fry? What is the recipe for stir-frying beef, veggies and onions? What should I do if I want to cook everything in a hot pan? What is the best way to get everything ready for cooking? What is stir-frying? Is it easier than you think?

Ingredients

For the Beef:

  • 1 pound flank steak or sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain. I always freeze the beef for about 30 minutes before slicing – it makes it so much easier to eat. How do I get thin strips?
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce per serving.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch per 1 cup
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil. 1 tablespoon nut
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger. 1 teaspoon ginger powder.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. 1 teaspoon salt.

For the Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce. 1 tsp
  • 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. 1 tablespoon of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar. 1 teaspoon of s
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch. 1 teaspoon
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil. 1 tablespoon.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger.
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. 1 teaspoon salt.
  • 1/4 cup beef broth (or water) is good.

For the Stir-Fry: What

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or canola oil) per person.
  • 1 onion, sliced.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced. 1 clove per
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced.
  • 1 cup broccoli florets. 1 tablespoon broccoli
  • 1 cup sliced carrots. 1 cups shredded
  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • Cooked rice or noodles, for serving.
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional) –

Beef Stir-Fry Recipe ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

What are the steps to

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and 1 cup water. Set aside. What’s a teaspoon of sesame oil, ginger, and pepper? Toss to coat well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 30 minutes in the microwave). This helps tenderize the beef and infuses it with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients. 1/4 cup soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Ginger, garlic powder, and beef broth.

Step 3: Heat the Wok (or Skillet)

In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over high heat. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and stir to combine. It should be smoking hot! This is crucial for getting that nice sear on beef and veggies.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef

Add the beef to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked. Do not overcrowd the pan – you may need to do this in batches to ensure the beef browns properly. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to a wok. Stir to combine. Add the sliced onion and garlic and stir-fry for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Then, add the bell pepper, broccoli, carrots, and mushrooms (if using). Stir Fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. I like my veggies to still have a bit of bite to them, but you can cook them longer if you prefer.

Step 6: Combine and Simmer

Pour the sauce over the vegetables and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes). Then, return the cooked beef to the wok and toss to coat everything in the sauce.

Step 7: Serve!

Serve the Beef Stir-Fry immediately over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired. And get ready for some serious compliments!

What to Serve It With

This Beef Stir-Fry Recipe is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas for sides that complement it perfectly:

  • Classic White Rice: A simple and reliable base for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
  • Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
  • Noodles: Lo mein noodles, ramen noodles, or even spaghetti noodles work well.
  • Quinoa: A protein-packed grain that’s a great option for a gluten-free meal.
  • Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls: Crispy and savory appetizers that add some crunch.
  • Wonton Soup: A light and flavorful soup that’s a perfect starter.
  • Steamed Edamame: A healthy and satisfying snack.
  • Asian Salad: A refreshing salad with a sesame ginger dressing.

My family loves it best with just plain white rice – it lets the flavors of the Beef Stir-Fry really shine. But sometimes, I’ll make a batch of egg rolls to go with it for a fun and festive meal.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Beef Stir-Fry

Okay, here are some of my tried-and-true tips for making the BEST Beef Stir-Fry Recipe every single time:

  • Slice the Beef Thinly: This is crucial for tender and evenly cooked beef. Remember my tip about partially freezing the beef before slicing? It makes all the difference!
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and cause the beef to steam instead of sear. Cook the beef and veggies in batches if necessary.
  • Use High Heat: Stir-frying is all about cooking quickly over high heat. This helps the beef and veggies stay crisp and prevents them from getting soggy.
  • Have Everything Prepped: As I mentioned before, have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This will make the process much smoother and faster.
  • Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: You want the vegetables to be tender-crisp, not mushy. Stir-fry them until they’re just cooked through, but still have a bit of bite to them.
  • Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking: Feel free to adjust the sauce to your taste preferences. If you like it sweeter, add more brown sugar. If you like it spicier, add some chili flakes.
  • Add a Splash of Sesame Oil at the End: This is my secret ingredient! A little bit of sesame oil at the end adds a wonderful aroma and flavor.

I learned the hard way about overcrowding the pan – the first time I made this, everything just steamed and got soggy. Yuck! But now, I always make sure to cook in batches, and it makes a world of difference.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to store and reheat your Beef Stir-Fry like a pro:

  • Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover Beef Stir-Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Beef Stir-Fry. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Reheating: Reheat the Beef Stir-Fry in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as crispy.

I actually think this tastes even better the next day! The flavors meld together and it’s just so good. I often make a double batch so I have leftovers for lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of beef?
Absolutely! Flank steak and sirloin are my go-to choices because they’re relatively affordable and cook quickly. However, you can also use ribeye, tenderloin, or even ground beef (though you’ll want to brown the ground beef separately before adding the veggies). Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What if I don’t have rice vinegar?
If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Use the same amount as the recipe calls for.
Can I add different vegetables?
Of course! This Beef Stir-Fry Recipe is super versatile. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as snow peas, bok choy, water chestnuts, or baby corn. Just add them to the wok along with the other vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, this recipe is not naturally gluten-free because it contains soy sauce. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using tamari (a gluten-free soy sauce alternative) and ensuring that your cornstarch is also gluten-free.
Can I make this spicier?
Definitely! If you like your stir-fry spicy, you can add some chili flakes to the sauce, or add a dash of sriracha to the finished dish. You could also add a minced jalapeno pepper to the wok along with the onions and garlic.

Final Thoughts

Beef Stir-Fry Recipe slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

So there you have it – my go-to Beef Stir-Fry Recipe that’s guaranteed to be a hit with your family! It’s quick, easy, customizable, and bursting with flavor. What more could you ask for? If you love easy weeknight dinners like this, you should definitely check out my recipes for Chicken Fajitas and Shrimp Scampi – they’re equally delicious and satisfying. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what veggies you used. Happy cooking!

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