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

This Spicy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl with Garlic Veggies & Steamy Rice is a bold, savory, and satisfying dish that hits all the right notes. I love how the heat from the beef balances with garlicky, crisp-tender veggies, all layered over fluffy rice. It’s quick, customizable, and perfect for weeknight meals when I want something wholesome and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I’m all about meals that come together fast but taste like they took all day—and this stir-fry bowl does exactly that. The ground beef cooks in minutes and soaks up every bit of spicy, umami-rich sauce, while the garlic veggies add crunch and brightness. It’s a great way to pack in protein and greens, and I can adjust the heat to match my mood. Plus, everything gets served over warm rice, which makes it even more comforting and complete.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Stir-Fry Sauce:

• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Chili garlic sauce or sriracha
• Brown sugar or honey
• Rice vinegar
• Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Ground Beef:

• Ground beef
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, minced or grated
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

For the Garlic Veggies:

• Broccoli florets
• Bell peppers, sliced
• Carrots, julienned or thinly sliced
• Snap peas or green beans (optional)
• Garlic, minced
• Sesame oil or neutral cooking oil

For Serving:

• Steamed white or brown rice
• Sesame seeds (optional)
• Sliced scallions
• Lime wedges (optional)

Directions

I start by cooking the rice according to package instructions so it’s ready by the time the stir-fry is done.

While the rice cooks, I whisk together the stir-fry sauce in a small bowl—soy sauce, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch if using. I set it aside.

In a large skillet or wok, I heat some oil and sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. I add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through.

Once the beef is fully cooked, I stir in the sauce and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened and coated. I keep it on low while I work on the veggies.

In a separate pan (or after removing the beef), I heat sesame oil and sauté the garlic for the veggies. I add the broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots, cooking just until they’re crisp-tender but still vibrant. I season lightly with salt and a splash of soy sauce for extra flavor.

To serve, I layer the rice in bowls, top with the spicy beef, then pile on the garlic veggies. I finish with sesame seeds, scallions, and a squeeze of lime if I have it.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner protein.

When I want extra crunch, I toss in water chestnuts or shredded cabbage.

For a lower-carb version, I swap the rice for cauliflower rice or lettuce cups.

If I want it even spicier, I add chopped Thai chilies or a splash of hot chili oil.

When I have leftover rice, this is the perfect way to give it new life.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I microwave it in 1-minute bursts until hot, or reheat in a skillet for a fresher texture.

This dish also freezes well. I portion it into containers, freeze, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, I often use frozen stir-fry blends when I’m short on time. I just make sure to cook off any extra moisture.

How do I adjust the spice level?

I control the heat by using less chili garlic sauce or skipping the red pepper flakes. When I want it fiery, I double up on the spice.

What kind of rice works best?

I like using jasmine or long-grain white rice, but brown rice or even quinoa works great too.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely. I often prep the sauce, chop the veggies, and cook the beef in advance to make assembly super quick.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be. I just use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce and double-check that my chili sauce doesn’t contain wheat.

Conclusion

This Spicy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl with Garlic Veggies & Steamy Rice is a flavorful, feel-good meal I turn to again and again. It’s easy, nourishing, and packed with bold taste in every bite. Whether I’m meal-prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, this bowl never lets me down.

Print