Quick Beef Stir-Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Beef Stir-Fry is a fast and flavorful dish that combines tender strips of beef with colorful vegetables, all tossed in a savory stir-fry sauce. This one-pan meal is loaded with healthy veggies and packed with protein, making it the perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights. It’s customizable with your favorite vegetables and can be served over rice or noodles for a complete meal. The best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup snap peas or green beans
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep the Beef: Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips.
2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch (if using). Set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onions, bell peppers, and snap peas (or green beans). Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced beef and garlic to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through.
5. Combine and Cook: Return the vegetables to the pan with the beef. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the beef and vegetables.
6. Serve: Serve the beef stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Variations: Add broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini for more variety.
• Spicy Stir-Fry: Add red pepper flakes, sliced chili peppers, or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve with cauliflower rice or noodles for a low-carb alternative.
• Sweet Stir-Fry: For a sweeter flavor, add a splash of honey or brown sugar to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, chicken breast or thighs are great alternatives and can be used in the same way.

Can I make this stir-fry gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and check that your oyster sauce and hoisin sauce are gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can slice the beef and chop the vegetables ahead of time, but it’s best to cook and serve the stir-fry fresh.

How do I prevent the beef from being tough?

Make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain, which will help it stay tender.

Can I add noodles to this stir-fry?

Yes, you can add cooked noodles to the stir-fry towards the end of cooking, just toss them in the sauce.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

If you like a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the stir-fry in the last step.

What should I serve with stir-fry?

Serve it over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.

How can I make this stir-fry spicier?

Add fresh chili peppers or a splash of chili sauce to give it extra heat.

Can I freeze stir-fry?

Stir-fry is best fresh, but you can freeze the beef and vegetables (without the sauce) for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, though fresh vegetables tend to have a better texture in stir-fries.

Conclusion

Quick Beef Stir-Fry is a speedy, delicious, and customizable dish that’s perfect for busy days. With tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, this recipe makes a satisfying and healthy meal in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead!

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