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

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spicy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent place in your weeknight rotation. It is bold, comforting, and deeply satisfying without being complicated or time-consuming. I often turn to this dish when I want something hearty but still balanced, with plenty of vegetables and just the right amount of heat. The combination of savory ground beef, fragrant garlic, crisp vegetables, and fluffy steamed rice creates a bowl that feels complete and nourishing.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is its flexibility. You can easily adjust the spice level, swap vegetables based on what you have on hand, or tailor it to different dietary needs. I have tested this dish with both jasmine rice and basmati rice, and each brings its own subtle character to the final bowl. Everything comes together in one pan for the stir-fry, making cleanup simple and stress-free. Whether you are cooking for yourself or for family, this recipe delivers bold flavor, reliable results, and a satisfying homemade meal every time.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef forms the foundation of this dish. I recommend using lean ground beef to keep the stir-fry flavorful without becoming greasy, while still delivering a rich, savory bite.

Cooked white rice provides a neutral, fluffy base that absorbs the spicy sauce beautifully. Freshly steamed rice works best for both texture and taste.

Garlic cloves add depth and aroma. Fresh garlic is essential here, as it infuses the oil and vegetables with a robust, savory fragrance.

Bell peppers bring sweetness and color. Using a mix of red and green peppers creates visual appeal and balances the heat of the dish.

Broccoli florets contribute crunch and freshness. They also hold up well to high-heat cooking, staying vibrant and tender-crisp.

Carrots add natural sweetness and a slight snap, complementing the savory beef and spicy sauce.

Soy sauce provides saltiness and umami, tying all the ingredients together into a cohesive stir-fry.

Chili garlic sauce is the primary heat source. It delivers spice along with garlicky depth, making the dish bold but controlled.

Sesame oil adds a nutty finish that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.

Vegetable oil is used for stir-frying, allowing the ingredients to cook evenly at high heat.

Green onions bring a mild sharpness and freshness, especially when sprinkled on top just before serving.

Directions

Begin by cooking the rice according to package instructions and keep it warm. While the rice cooks, prepare all vegetables by washing, slicing, and setting them aside so the cooking process moves smoothly.

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add minced garlic to the beef and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Immediately add the carrots and broccoli, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Cook for two to three minutes until slightly tender.

Add the bell peppers and continue cooking until the vegetables are crisp-tender. Lower the heat slightly and stir in soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well so the beef and vegetables are evenly coated.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the spicy beef and garlic vegetables over warm rice, finishing with sliced green onions on top.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately four servings. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, while cooking time is roughly 20 minutes, making the total time around 35 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Add a small splash of water to prevent dryness.

Variations and Customizations

This stir-fry bowl adapts easily to personal preferences and dietary needs. For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef while still absorbing the spicy sauce effectively. If you prefer extra heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil just before serving.

Vegetable options are highly flexible. Snap peas, zucchini, mushrooms, or baby corn can be added or substituted depending on availability. I have also tried adding spinach at the very end, allowing it to wilt gently into the dish.

For a lower-carb version, serve the stir-fry over cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage. If you enjoy richer flavors, a splash of hoisin sauce or oyster sauce can be added for sweetness and depth. This recipe truly rewards experimentation while maintaining its core bold character.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish offers a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. It is naturally dairy-free and can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce. The protein content supports satiety, while the vegetables contribute fiber and essential nutrients.

Expert Tips & Customizations

High heat cooking
Cooking over medium-high heat ensures proper browning and prevents steaming.

Prepare ingredients ahead
Having everything chopped before cooking keeps the stir-fry fast and controlled.

Balance the sauce
Taste before serving and adjust salt or heat gradually for the best flavor.

Rice texture matters
Freshly cooked, slightly sticky rice holds the sauce better than dry or cold rice.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time

Yes, it stores well and reheats easily for meal prep.

Is this recipe very spicy

It is moderately spicy, but the heat level can be adjusted easily.

Can I freeze this stir-fry

Freezing is possible, but vegetables may soften slightly when reheated.

What rice works best

Jasmine or basmati rice both work well.

Can I use frozen vegetables

Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

How do I reduce sodium

Use low-sodium soy sauce and adjust seasoning carefully.

Can I add eggs

A fried or soft-boiled egg makes an excellent topping.

Is this suitable for kids

Reduce the chili sauce to make it milder.

Can I cook this in advance for lunches

Yes, it is ideal for weekday meal prep.

What oil is best for stir-frying

Neutral oils with high smoke points work best.

Conclusion

This Spicy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl with Garlic Veggies and Steamy Rice is a dependable, flavor-forward meal that brings comfort and excitement to the table. With simple ingredients, adaptable variations, and bold seasoning, it is a recipe worth returning to again and again.

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