Quick Easy Dinner Beef Stir Fry

Name: Quick Easy Dinner Beef Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced; 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup snap peas; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Inspiration

I love how quick and satisfying this beef stir fry is for weeknight dinners. With tender strips of beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce, it brings a burst of flavor to the table in just 30 minutes. We often customize ours with whatever fresh veggies we have on hand, making it a versatile dish that can adapt to any mood. It’s become a favorite in our household, not just for its speed but for its deliciousness too!

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-02-27T15:09:35.811Z

When I first experimented with beef stir fry, I was amazed at how quickly I could whip up a complete meal. The key is slicing the beef thinly against the grain, which keeps it tender and flavorful. I also find that using a mix of colorful vegetables not only enhances the dish's presentation but also provides a nice variety of textures that elevate the entire experience.

This recipe works beautifully with different sauces, but a simple soy sauce and garlic base is my go-to. I remember the first time I made it for friends; they couldn't believe how effortlessly it came together, and they left asking for the recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation in just 30 minutes
Customize with your favorite vegetables for variety
Rich flavor without a lot of fuss

Perfecting Your Beef

Choosing the right cut of beef is essential for achieving tenderness in your stir fry. Sirloin is a great choice due to its balance of flavor and cost, but you can also opt for flank steak or tenderloin for a more luxurious touch. Aim for cuts with a bit of marbling, as this will add richness and juiciness to the dish. Be sure to slice against the grain to ensure every bite is tender, allowing the flavors of the marinade to penetrate deeply.

Marinating the beef not only enhances its flavor but also helps to tenderize it. The cornstarch in the marinade plays a crucial role, creating a light coating on the beef that not only provides a silky texture but helps it to sear properly in the hot wok or skillet. If you're short on time, even a quick 10-minute soak can significantly amp up the flavor. For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a dash of chili flakes to your marinade.

Mastering the Stir-Fry Technique

A well-executed stir fry hinges on high heat and quick cooking. Preheat your wok or skillet for a few minutes before you add the oil; this ensures the vegetables will begin cooking instantly and retain their vibrant color and crispness. It's recommended to keep the oil hot enough to shimmer but not so hot that it smokes heavily. If using a non-stick skillet, medium-high heat should suffice; for carbon steel or cast iron, crank it up a notch.

The order of operations matters in a stir fry. Start with aromatics like garlic, which release their oils and fragrance, followed by harder vegetables such as bell peppers and broccoli. Incorporating snap peas last ensures they retain their snap and bright color. Stir-fry continuously but give each ingredient a chance to caramelize slightly on contact for enhanced flavor. Remember, you want each component perfectly cooked but not mushy, typically finishing around 5-7 minutes depending on your heat level.

Ingredients

Beef Stir Fry

1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup snap peas
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what's in season or what you have available.

Instructions

Prepare the Beef

In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, followed by the mixed bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until just tender.

Cook the Beef

Push the vegetables to the sides of the wok and add the marinated beef. Stir-fry for another 5-7 minutes until the beef is cooked through.

Combine and Serve

Mix the vegetables with the beef, combine well, and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

For an extra kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking!

Pro Tips

Using a high smoke point oil like vegetable or canola oil will help achieve a great sear on the beef.

Serving Suggestions

This beef stir fry is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with various bases. Traditional options include white or brown rice, but consider quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. You can also serve it over fresh noodles for added texture or mix in some cooked egg noodles to soak up the savory sauce. Garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can elevate the dish even further, adding pops of color and freshness.

For a complete meal, don’t shy away from adding a side of egg rolls or spring rolls. They complement the stir fry’s flavors and offer a satisfying crunch. If you're looking to impress, you can even create a stir fry bar, allowing guests to customize their bowls with their choice of sauces and toppings. This way, I find that everyone gets exactly what they want!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

While stir fries are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep certain components ahead of time. Slice the beef and vegetables and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just be mindful to keep the beef marinated separately until you're ready to cook to avoid mushiness. Cooked stir fry can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

To reheat stir fry, use a non-stick skillet over medium heat to maintain the dish's original texture. Stir until it's heated through, being cautious not to overcook the vegetables, which can lead to sogginess. If you’re freezing leftovers, use freezer-safe containers and consume within three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and consider adding a splash of fresh soy sauce to revive the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breast or thighs, just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms based on what you enjoy or have on hand.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients and marinate the beef a few hours in advance, just store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute for regular soy sauce.