Ground Beef Stir
A savory ground beef stir-fry with vibrant vegetables and bold flavors, perfect for a hearty, quick meal suited for families and busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet until cooked through, then drain off excess fat.
- Add chopped green pepper and onion to the skillet and cook until tender.
- Stir in soy sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper, then add canned tomatoes.
- Simmer the mixture until flavors meld and vegetables are tender.
- Thicken the sauce by mixing 2 tablespoons of flour with cold water and stirring into the skillet until desired consistency is reached.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or ginger while sautéing the vegetables. If you prefer a slightly sweeter taste, try incorporating a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to balance the soy sauce's saltiness. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or use different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef Stir is delicious served over rice or noodles, making it a perfect base for a hearty meal. You can also pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced dinner. It pairs beautifully with Junk Over Rice for a comforting family feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Beef Stir contains roughly 178 calories, with 7g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Just peel and chop about 2-3 medium tomatoes to substitute for the canned variety. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require longer cooking time to break down and create a sauce-like consistency.
What can I do if the sauce is too salty?
If your sauce turns out too salty, you can balance it by adding a teaspoon of sugar or honey. Alternatively, adding additional canned tomatoes or a splash of water can help dilute the saltiness without losing flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a kick to your Ground Beef Stir, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your spice preference.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).