Quick Easy Dinner Beef Stir Fry

Name: Quick Easy Dinner Beef Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced; 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Highlighted under: Easy Kitchen Magic

I love whipping up this Quick Easy Dinner Beef Stir Fry when I'm short on time but crave something delicious. It’s a simple dish that allows for flexibility; you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand. The combination of tender beef strips stir-fried with colorful veggies in a savory sauce comes together in no time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Plus, it’s packed with flavor that everyone in the family will enjoy!

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:33:35.780Z

Preparing this Quick Easy Dinner Beef Stir Fry has been a game-changer for me. The trick is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go, which really streamlines the cooking process. I quickly slice the beef and chop up colorful vegetables, ensuring they are all around the same size for even cooking.

Another important tip I discovered is to cook the beef in batches if your pan isn’t large enough. This prevents the meat from steaming rather than searing, resulting in a delicious caramelization that adds depth to the dish. Stir-frying at high heat really enhances the flavors!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation and cooking time make it ideal for busy nights.
Versatile; you can mix and match vegetables based on what's in your fridge.
Packed with protein and flavor, it's a satisfying meal for everyone.

Ingredient Insights

The beef sirloin is a key ingredient in this stir fry due to its tenderness and rich flavor. When slicing, aim for 1/4-inch thickness to ensure quick cooking and a nice sear. If sirloin isn't available, flank steak or even chicken breast can work well as substitutes, just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly for different types of protein.

Using a variety of bell peppers not only adds color but also enhances the dish's flavor profile. Red, yellow, and green peppers each contribute their unique sweetness and crunch. If you're looking for a different twist, consider adding snap peas or asparagus, which can be incorporated in place of one of the bell pepper varieties, maintaining that delightful crunch.

Cooking Technique Tips

When stir-frying, high heat is essential for achieving that signature smoky flavor (known as 'wok hei'). Make sure your skillet or wok is preheated before adding the oil—this helps prevent sticking. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke excessively; around 375°F is ideal. If the skillet starts to smoke, it's too hot, and you should remove it from the heat temporarily to avoid burning the ingredients.

To maximize flavor, cook the beef in a single layer without overcrowding the skillet. This allows for even browning and prevents steaming, which can happen if too much meat is added at once. If you're making a larger batch, consider searing the beef in batches, transferring it to a plate, and then continuing with the vegetables without washing the skillet, capturing all those flavorful browned bits.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your stir fry:

Prepare the Beef

In a bowl, combine sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Sauté minced garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds, then add the mixed bell peppers and broccoli. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Combine and Serve

Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Make sure everything is heated through. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.

Enjoy your Quick Easy Dinner Beef Stir Fry!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider tossing in some sesame seeds or a splash of sesame oil before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your beef stir fry over fluffy, steamed rice or stir-fried noodles. I often opt for jasmine rice, as its fragrant aroma complements the savory sauce beautifully. If you're watching carbs, consider cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter option that still satisfies the stir-fry craving.

To elevate your dish, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions just before serving. A drizzle of sriracha or chili oil can also add a spicy kick, catering to those who enjoy a bit more heat. Pair this meal with a light side salad to create a balanced dinner that's visually appealing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the texture, let the stir fry cool completely before sealing the container. Reheating is best done in a skillet over low heat to prevent the beef from becoming tough and the veggies from becoming mushy; add a splash of water if needed to reintroduce moisture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stir fry for up to three months. I recommend portioning it into single servings for easy meals on busy nights. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and always ensure that it is heated through to 165°F for safe consumption.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Chicken breast or thighs can be used in place of beef with similar preparation.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include snap peas, carrots, or zucchini for a colorful mix.

→ How do I make it gluten-free?

Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

The stir fry is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the veggies and marinate the meat ahead.