Quick Spicy Ground Beef Stir Fry Bowl for Busy Weeknights

It is 6pm. You are tired. Your family is hungry. Dinner needs to happen fast.

This Spicy Ground Beef Stir Fry Bowl is your new weeknight hero. It is fresh, filling, and so much better than takeout. You can have this high-protein meal on the table in just 35 minutes.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is a lifesaver for busy fall evenings. As the weather cools, we all crave something warm and satisfying. This bowl delivers comfort without the heavy cleanup.

It uses simple ingredients you likely already have. The ground beef cooks quickly and stays tender. You get a massive protein boost that keeps everyone full until breakfast. It is budget-friendly and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.

Simple Cooking Method

Stir-frying is the ultimate shortcut for beginner cooks. You only need one large skillet and a saucepan for rice. The garlic-infused vegetables cook in just a few minutes. Even if you have never made a stir fry, you can master this. Everything comes together in one vibrant, delicious glaze.

Ingredients You Will Need

Most of these items are pantry staples or easy-to-find fresh produce.

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 3 cups water
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until clear.
2. Combine rice with water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes.
4. Keep the rice covered until you are ready to serve.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled.
7. Drain excess fat from the skillet and return to heat.
8. Add garlic and ginger to the beef; sauté for 1 minute.
9. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots to the skillet.
10. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
11. Whisk soy sauce, sriracha, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
12. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables.
13. Toss for 2 minutes to ensure an even, glossy glaze.
14. Distribute rice into four bowls and top with the beef mixture.
15. Garnish with fresh green onions.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve these bowls warm while the steam is still rising. The creamy, tender beef pairs perfectly with the crunchy vegetables. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a little extra texture.

For a cozy weeknight dinner, serve with a side of edamame. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lime juice. It adds a bright, zesty finish to the spicy sauce. Sit down, relax, and enjoy a meal that feels special.

Storage and Reheating

This recipe is a dream for meal prep. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen and improve the next day. Reheat in the microwave for 2 minutes or in a skillet. It makes a fantastic grab-and-go lunch for work.

Recipe Tips for Success

• Do not skip rinsing the rice for the best texture.
• Prep all your vegetables before you start the heat.
• Use a high-heat oil like vegetable or avocado oil.
• Avoid overcooking the broccoli to keep it bright green.
• Adjust the sriracha level to suit your family’s spice preference.
• Grate your ginger fresh for the most vibrant flavor.
• Make the rice ahead of time to save even more minutes.

Easy Flavor Ideas

• Swap the beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Add a tablespoon of honey for a sweet and spicy kick.
• Use frozen stir-fry veggies if you are in a huge rush.
• Try cauliflower rice for a low-carb seasonal variation.

Common Questions

Can I make this less spicy?

Yes, simply reduce or omit the sriracha sauce. The soy sauce and sesame oil still provide plenty of flavor. You can always add extra spice to individual bowls later.

What rice is best for this bowl?

Long-grain white rice or Jasmine rice works beautifully. They stay fluffy and do not get mushy under the sauce. Brown rice is also a great high-fiber alternative.

I hope this quick stir fry brings a little calm to your busy weeknight. It is so satisfying to serve a fresh meal that everyone loves. Happy cooking!

— Katie Wood

Print Recipe

Spicy Ground Beef Stir Fry Bowl with Garlic Veggies & Steamy Rice

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time20 minutes mins

Total Time35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 580kcal

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups long -grain white rice
• 3 cups wate r
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup carrots , julienned
• 4 cloves garlic , minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 green onions , thinly sliced

Instructions

• Rinse the rice under cold water until clear; combine with water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until water is absorbed; keep covered until serving.
• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula.
• Drain excess fat from the skillet and return to heat.
• Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the beef; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Incorporate broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until vegetables reach tender-crisp texture.
• In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sriracha, and sesame oil.
• Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables, tossing for 2 minutes to ensure even glazing.
• Distribute the steamed rice into four bowls and top with the spicy beef stir fry.
• Garnish with sliced green onions.