Beef Stir Fry with Rice

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This Beef Stir Fry with Rice is a go-to recipe for quick and wholesome dinners. It’s the kind of meal that strikes the perfect balance between ease and flavor. You get tender ground beef, crisp green beans, and sweet carrots all tossed in a savory sauce, served alongside fluffy rice. Whether you’re winding down on a weeknight or want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen, this dish delivers.

What makes this stir fry especially great is its versatility. The sauce clings to every ingredient, coating the vegetables and beef in rich umami. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and kid-approved. Everything cooks in one pan (minus the rice), which keeps cleanup minimal. It’s a practical, delicious solution when time is short but you still want to eat well.

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What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

Use lean ground beef for this stir fry, preferably 85% to 90% lean. It provides enough fat to develop flavor without making the dish greasy. If you use a fattier blend, consider draining excess fat after browning. Ground turkey or chicken can also substitute if you prefer a lighter option.

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Ingredients for the Beef Stir Fry with Rice

Ground Beef – The star of this dish, it adds hearty protein and richness that pairs well with the stir fry sauce.

Green Beans – Fresh or frozen, these add a vibrant crunch and balance out the savory meat.

Carrots – Thinly sliced carrots lend sweetness and color, complementing the green beans and beef.

Soy Sauce – This is the foundation of the stir fry sauce, providing deep umami and saltiness.

Garlic & Ginger – Fresh or paste versions both work; they add bold, aromatic flavor.

Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce and cling it to the meat and vegetables.

Sugar – Just a touch balances the salty soy sauce.

Sesame Oil – Adds a final nutty, toasty aroma and flavor.

Cooked Rice – White jasmine or long-grain rice soaks up the sauce and completes the meal.

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How To Make the Beef Stir Fry with Rice

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Wash and trim the green beans, then cut them into bite-sized lengths. Peel and julienne the carrots. Mince garlic and ginger if using fresh. Cook the rice according to your package directions so it’s ready to serve.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or wok, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink and slightly browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Push the beef to the side of the skillet and add green beans and carrots. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes, or until just tender-crisp. If the skillet looks too dry, add a small splash of water or oil to help the veggies cook evenly.

Step 4: Add Aromatics

Mix in the garlic and ginger, and stir everything together. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, and a bit of water. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes as the sauce thickens and coats everything.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Turn off the heat and drizzle in a bit of sesame oil. Serve the stir fry hot over steamed rice.

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Serving and Storing Beef Stir Fry with Rice

Beef Stir Fry with Rice is best enjoyed hot and fresh, straight from the pan. The vibrant vegetables keep their crispness, and the sauce remains glossy and flavorful. If you’re serving it to guests or a family, plate it with the rice on one side and the stir fry on the other for a clean, restaurant-style look.

To store leftovers, let the stir fry cool completely, then pack it into airtight containers. It will last up to 4 days in the fridge. For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to revive the sauce. You can also microwave it, but the vegetables might lose a bit of their texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the vegetables and stir fry sauce ahead. Cook everything fresh when you’re ready to eat, or reheat the whole dish gently if you make it fully in advance.

What other vegetables can I add?

Broccoli florets, snap peas, or bell peppers all work well in this stir fry. Just make sure they’re cut into bite-sized pieces and cook them to a crisp-tender finish.

Is it okay to use frozen green beans?

Absolutely. Frozen green beans are convenient and cook quickly. Just thaw them slightly before adding to the skillet.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.

What’s a good substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles can work as substitutes. The sauce will still give them rich flavor.

Do I need a wok to make this?

Not at all. A large nonstick or stainless steel skillet will do the job perfectly.

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

You might also like the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, a creamy and savory one-skillet option. Or try the One Skillet Smoky Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta if you’re craving smoky heat and a bit of indulgence.

For something comforting and kid-friendly, the Sloppy Joe Casserole could hit the spot. And if you’re in the mood for a Southern twist, the One Pan Sweet and Tangy BBQ Sausage Rice brings bold flavor with minimal cleanup.

Another hearty beef-based meal worth exploring is the One Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Rice—sweet, spicy, and ready in under 30 minutes.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dinner board for easy weeknight ideas. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you use fresh beans or frozen? Did you swap the protein? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others customize it.

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