Beef Stir Fry with Vegetables

Beef Stir Fry with Vegetables is an easy, healthy, and versatile dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Featuring tender slices of beef, a colorful mix of vegetables, and a savory-sweet sauce, this recipe delivers both nutrition and flavor in every bite. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a dependable meal that fits seamlessly into everyday cooking while still feeling special enough to enjoy again and again.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, preparing meals for the week, or simply craving a fast homemade dinner, this beef stir fry checks all the right boxes. It’s quick, satisfying, customizable, and rooted in classic Asian-inspired flavors that never go out of style.

Introduction

Stir fry recipes have long been a favorite among home cooks for one simple reason: they’re efficient without sacrificing flavor. This Beef Stir Fry with Vegetables brings together everything people love about stir-frying—high heat, quick cooking, and bold flavors—into a single pan meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.

Originating from Asian and Chinese culinary traditions, stir-frying is designed to preserve texture, color, and nutrients while developing deep flavor in a short amount of time. This recipe follows that philosophy closely. Thinly sliced beef is seared quickly to lock in tenderness, vegetables are cooked just until crisp-tender, and everything is coated in a glossy sauce that balances savory, sweet, and aromatic notes.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is its versatility. It works equally well as a complete meal on its own or served over steamed rice. It can be prepped ahead, cooked quickly, and adjusted slightly based on what vegetables you have on hand—without ever losing its core appeal.

If you’re looking for a reliable, flavorful dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes, this beef stir fry with vegetables deserves a permanent place in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
• Uses simple, accessible ingredients
• Balanced savory-sweet sauce with rich umami flavor
• Tender beef and crisp vegetables in every bite
• One-pan cooking for easy cleanup
• Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe uses straightforward ingredients that work together to create a bold, balanced stir fry. All measurements are listed exactly as provided and should not be altered.

Beef

• 1 lb (450 g) beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye), thinly sliced

Sauce Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

Stir-Fry Oil

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir frying)

Vegetables

• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 carrot, julienned
• ½ cup snap peas, ends trimmed

Garnish & Serving

• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Steamed rice (optional, for serving)

Serving Size

This recipe yields 4 servings.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Wok or large skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to ensure perfect results and consistent flavor.

1. Prepare the Beef

Thinly slice the beef against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.
If time allows, marinate the beef in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for 15–30 minutes to enhance flavor.

2. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• hoisin sauce
• sesame oil
• honey
• minced garlic
• grated ginger

Whisk until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

3. Heat the Pan

Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add the beef in a single layer. Let it sear 2–3 minutes without stirring to develop a crispy crust.
Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.
Add carrots, bell pepper, and broccoli. Stir-fry for 3–5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften but remain crisp.

5. Add the Snap Peas

Add the snap peas and continue stir-frying for 2–3 minutes, maintaining a tender-crisp texture.

6. Combine the Beef and Sauce

Return the beef to the pan along with the prepared sauce.
Stir well to evenly coat the beef and vegetables.
Cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

7. Serve

Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Serve over steamed rice or enjoy on its own.

Tips & Variations

Protein Options

• Flank steak offers strong beef flavor
• Sirloin is lean and tender
• Ribeye adds richness

Vegetable Swaps

• Snow peas can replace snap peas
• Mushrooms add extra umami
• Zucchini works well for added bulk

Texture Tips

• Do not overcrowd the pan
• Cook beef in batches if necessary
• Keep vegetables slightly crisp

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This beef stir fry delivers a rich umami flavor from soy sauce and hoisin, balanced with gentle sweetness from honey and aromatic depth from garlic and ginger. Sesame oil adds warmth, while fresh vegetables bring brightness and texture.

The dish pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed white or brown rice
• Jasmine or basmati rice
• Enjoyed on its own for a lighter option

Nutritional Overview

This dish offers a well-rounded nutritional profile with protein-rich beef and fiber-rich vegetables.

Dietary considerations:

• High-protein
• Contains soy
• Can be made gluten-free with gluten-free soy sauce

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Slice beef and vegetables in advance
• Sauce can be mixed ahead and refrigerated
• Store cooked stir fry for up to 4 days
• Reheat gently to maintain texture

FAQs

What cut of beef works best?

Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are ideal for stir-frying when sliced thinly.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute gluten-free soy sauce.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep and reheats well.

How do I keep beef tender?

Slice against the grain and avoid overcooking.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot over steamed rice
• Garnish generously for presentation
• Pair with a simple vegetable side if desired

Recipe Variations (Using the Same Ingredients)

1. Beef Stir Fry Bowl – Extra rice and garnish
2. Low-Carb Version – Skip rice and serve alone
3. Meal Prep Boxes – Portion evenly for the week
4. Extra Veggie Stir Fry – Increase vegetable ratios

Ingredient Spotlight

Fresh Ginger

Fresh ginger adds warmth and brightness. Always grate fresh rather than using powdered for best results.

Hoisin Sauce

Hoisin provides sweetness and depth, balancing the saltiness of soy sauce.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Preheat the pan before adding beef
• Sear beef without stirring for best crust
• Add sauce only at the end to avoid burning
• Serve immediately for best texture

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days

Freezer

• Freeze for up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight before reheating

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	375 kcal
Protein	~28 g
Carbohydrates	~26 g
Fat	~18 g
Fiber	~4 g

Dietary Notes: Contains soy, gluten (unless gluten-free soy sauce is used)

Expanded Conclusion

This Beef Stir Fry with Vegetables (30-Minutes) recipe is the perfect example of how simple ingredients and smart techniques can create a deeply satisfying meal. It’s fast, flexible, and packed with flavor—everything a weeknight dinner should be.

Whether you’re new to stir-frying or a seasoned home cook, this recipe delivers reliable results every time. Once you try it, it’s sure to become one of those dependable meals you turn to whenever you need something quick, comforting, and delicious.

Save it, share it, and enjoy the simplicity of a truly great homemade stir fry.

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