When it comes to quick weeknight dinners, nothing beats a delicious stir fry. This Green Bean and Ground Beef Stir Fry is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also a breeze to whip up in under 30 minutes. The combination of tender green beans and savory ground beef, enlivened with fresh ginger and garlic, makes for a hearty yet healthy meal that your whole family will love. Plus, the sweet and tangy sauce ties everything together beautifully. Let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation!
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Green Bean and Ground Beef Stir Fry stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily adjust the spice level and swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand. Second, it features a simple yet flavorful sauce that balances sweet, savory, and spicy notes, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. Finally, the quick cooking time means you can have a wholesome meal on the table in no time, making it perfect for busy evenings.
What Goes Into Green Bean and Ground Beef Stir Fry
To prepare this delicious stir fry, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef – The star protein of this dish, providing richness and flavor.
- 8 oz green beans – Fresh and crunchy, these add a vibrant color and healthy crunch.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes – A little heat to bring the dish to life; adjust to your taste.
- 2 tsp fresh ginger, grated – Adds warmth and a hint of spice.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – A must-have for that aromatic base.
- 1 tbsp canola oil – A neutral oil perfect for high-heat cooking.
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce – Brings umami and saltiness without overwhelming the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated – The more, the merrier when it comes to garlic!
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Adds a lovely nutty flavor.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Balances the savory elements with a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Provides a tangy brightness.
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce – For an extra kick of flavor.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch – To thicken the sauce and give it a glossy finish.
Prep & Cook Tools
Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Wok or large skillet – Ideal for stir frying and achieving that signature sear.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the ingredients without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Grater or microplane – For quickly grating ginger and garlic.
How to Prepare Green Bean and Ground Beef Stir Fry
Follow these simple steps to create your Green Bean and Ground Beef Stir Fry:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing and trimming the green beans, cutting them in half if desired. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger so they’re ready to go.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, and cornstarch. Set this aside; it will be the magic sauce that brings everything together!
Step 3: Cook the Beef
In a wok or large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 5: Add Green Beans
Toss in the green beans and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
Step 6: Combine with Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and green beans. Stir well to coat everything, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and bubbles.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from heat and serve the Green Bean and Ground Beef Stir Fry hot over a bed of rice or noodles, or enjoy it on its own!
Seasonal Twists
Feel free to mix things up with seasonal ingredients! Here are a few ideas:
- Add sliced bell peppers or carrots in the spring for a colorful twist.
- Substitute snow peas for green beans in the summer for a different texture.
- In the fall, throw in some sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Top with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for a fresh garnish any time of year!
Avoid These Traps
When making your Green Bean and Ground Beef Stir Fry, keep the following tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Watch the cooking time for the green beans; you want them tender but still crisp.
- Be careful not to over-sauce; too much can overpower the other flavors.
- Adjust the heat level gradually; it’s easier to add more spice than to tone it down!
Storage & Reheat Guide
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat your Green Bean and Ground Beef Stir Fry:
Allow the stir fry to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot. For best results, add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep it moist.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans work well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the stir fry.
What can I serve with this stir fry?
This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat can be used for a lighter or vegetarian option.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level depends on how much red pepper flakes and chili garlic sauce you use. Start with a small amount and taste as you go for your desired spice level.
If you enjoyed this , you might also love these recipes:
Make It Tonight
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This Green Bean and Ground Beef Stir Fry is a quick, satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds singing. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the ease of preparation, and make tonight’s dinner a delightful experience!
Green Bean and Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by washing and trimming the green beans, cutting them in half if desired. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger so they're ready to go.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, and cornstarch. Set this aside; it will be the magic sauce that brings everything together!
- In a wok or large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Toss in the green beans and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and green beans. Stir well to coat everything, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and bubbles.
- Remove from heat and serve the Green Bean and Ground Beef Stir Fry hot over a bed of rice or noodles, or enjoy it on its own!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth for moisture.
- Feel free to swap in different veggies based on what you have available!
