This quick and flavorful ground beef stir-fry is packed with sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness! It’s a perfect weeknight meal that pairs well with rice or noodles.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste) or ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for extra depth)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 1 cup shredded carrots (optional)
- 1 cup baby spinach or bok choy (optional)
- Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the beef – Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add aromatics – Stir in the garlic and ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Season the beef – Add soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang (if using), rice vinegar, oyster sauce (if using), and black pepper. Stir well to coat the beef in the sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
- Add veggies (optional) – Toss in shredded carrots and spinach or bok choy. Cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened.
- Finish & serve – Stir in sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice and garnish with extra sesame seeds and green onions.
Tips & Variations
✔ Make it low-carb – Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
✔ Add crunch – Top with chopped cucumbers, radishes, or crushed peanuts.
✔ Use other proteins – Swap beef for ground chicken, turkey, or tofu.
✔ More spice? – Add extra gochujang, sriracha, or fresh chilies.
Enjoy your Korean-Inspired Ground Beef Stir-Fry—a fast, delicious, and satisfying meal! 🍚🥢🔥
