There are days when cooking needs to be fast, comforting, and deeply satisfying all at once. This Easy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl with Garlic Veggies & Steamy Rice is the kind of meal that fits perfectly into a busy weeknight, yet feels hearty enough for a relaxed family dinner. It brings together familiar ingredients, simple techniques, and bold flavors without requiring hours in the kitchen.
The inspiration for this dish comes from the idea of turning everyday pantry staples into something special. Ground beef, fresh vegetables, and rice are ingredients found in many kitchens, but when combined with garlic, gentle seasoning, and high heat, they transform into a flavorful bowl that feels intentional and nourishing. This recipe celebrates simplicity, balance, and comfort, making it an ideal choice when you want something homemade, warm, and reliable.
Why This Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl Works So Well
This dish is built around balance. The savory richness of ground beef pairs beautifully with crisp-tender vegetables, while fluffy rice absorbs all the flavors in the bowl. Garlic ties everything together, creating depth without overpowering the natural taste of the ingredients.
Another reason this recipe works so well is its flexibility. You can adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand, scale the seasoning to suit your preferences, and prepare everything in under 40 minutes. It is approachable for beginner cooks and dependable for experienced home chefs who need a quick win at dinnertime.
Ingredients Overview
For the Steamy Rice
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Long-grain white rice – 1½ cups (300 g)
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Water – 3 cups (720 ml)
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Salt – ½ teaspoon
For the Ground Beef Stir-Fry
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Ground beef (lean) – 1 lb (450 g)
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Garlic cloves, minced – 5 cloves
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Onion, finely chopped – 1 medium (150 g)
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Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons (45 ml)
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Oyster sauce (non-alcoholic) – 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
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Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon (5 ml)
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Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
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Paprika – ½ teaspoon
For the Garlic Vegetables
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Broccoli florets – 2 cups (180 g)
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Bell peppers, sliced – 1½ cups (180 g)
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Carrots, julienned – 1 cup (120 g)
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Green beans – 1 cup (120 g)
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Garlic cloves, minced – 3 cloves
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Vegetable oil – 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
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Salt – ¼ teaspoon
Optional Garnishes
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Sliced green onions – ¼ cup (25 g)
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Sesame seeds – 1 tablespoon
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Rice
Cooking the rice properly sets the foundation for the entire bowl, so this step deserves care and attention. Begin by placing the long-grain white rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinsing it under cold running water. Gently move the rice with your fingers as the water flows through. This process removes excess surface starch, which helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky or gummy once cooked. Continue rinsing until the water runs mostly clear.
Transfer the rinsed rice to a medium saucepan and add the measured water and salt. Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly with a lid, and allow the rice to simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time, as trapped steam is essential for even cooking.
When the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed, remove the saucepan from the heat but keep it covered. Let the rice steam for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period allows the grains to firm up and finish cooking evenly. Finally, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains and release excess steam. Set aside and keep warm until ready to assemble the bowls.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to warm up for a minute before adding the ground beef. Adding the beef to a hot pan helps develop flavor through browning rather than steaming. Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks, spreading it evenly across the pan.
Cook the beef for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is fully browned and no pink remains. Letting the beef sit undisturbed for short intervals helps create caramelized bits on the bottom of the pan, which add depth and richness to the final dish. If there is excess fat in the pan, carefully drain it off, leaving just enough to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
3. Build Flavor
Once the beef is browned, add the finely chopped onion directly to the skillet. Stir well and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the onion to soften and become translucent. The onion releases natural sweetness that balances the savory beef.
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter. Immediately add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and paprika. Stir thoroughly so the beef is evenly coated in the seasoning. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld together into a cohesive, savory base.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In a separate pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over high heat until it shimmers. Add the minced garlic and stir quickly for a few seconds to release its aroma. Immediately add the broccoli florets, bell peppers, carrots, and green beans.
Stir-fry the vegetables continuously for 4 to 5 minutes. The high heat ensures they cook quickly while retaining their vibrant color and crisp-tender texture. The goal is vegetables that are cooked through but still slightly crunchy, adding contrast to the soft rice and savory beef. Season lightly with salt and remove from heat once the vegetables are bright and just tender.
5. Assemble the Bowl
To assemble, divide the warm rice evenly between serving bowls, creating a generous base. Spoon the ground beef mixture over one side of the rice and add a portion of the garlic vegetables alongside it. This presentation keeps textures distinct while allowing flavors to mingle naturally.
Finish with optional garnishes such as sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added freshness and visual appeal. Serve the bowls hot, allowing everyone to mix the components together just before eating for the best balance of flavors and textures.
Tips for the Best Stir-Fry Bowl
Using high heat ensures the vegetables stay vibrant and slightly crisp. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause steaming instead of stir-frying. Preparing all ingredients before cooking helps everything come together smoothly.
For extra depth, let the beef cook undisturbed for a minute before stirring. This creates caramelization, which enhances flavor without additional seasoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
Yes, this stir-fry bowl works well with several rice varieties. Jasmine rice adds a subtle floral aroma, while basmati rice offers a slightly nutty flavor and fluffy texture. Brown rice is also a great option if you prefer a heartier grain, though it requires a longer cooking time. The key is ensuring the rice is fully cooked and fluffy so it absorbs the savory beef and vegetable juices without becoming mushy. Even short-grain rice can work if that is what you have available.
What vegetables can I substitute or add?
This recipe is very adaptable. Zucchini, snow peas, mushrooms, or spinach all pair nicely with ground beef and garlic. If adding leafy greens, stir them in at the end so they wilt gently without overcooking. Frozen vegetables can also be used in a pinch, though it is best to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture. Mixing colors and textures keeps the bowl visually appealing and nutritionally balanced.
How do I store leftovers properly?
Allow the stir-fry and rice to cool completely before storing. Keep the rice and beef-vegetable mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture. Storing components separately helps maintain texture and prevents the rice from becoming overly soft.
Can this dish be made ahead of time for meal prep?
Absolutely. This recipe is excellent for meal prep because it reheats well and holds its flavor. Cook the rice, beef, and vegetables ahead of time and portion them into containers. When reheating, warm everything evenly and garnish just before serving. Making it ahead allows the flavors to meld even more, making it just as enjoyable on the second or third day.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl with Garlic Veggies & Steamy Rice is a reminder that great meals do not need to be complicated. With a handful of everyday ingredients and a few thoughtful steps, you can create something that feels complete, nourishing, and deeply satisfying. The contrast between savory beef, crisp vegetables, and soft rice delivers comfort in every bite, making it a dependable option for busy evenings.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. It can be adjusted for different tastes, dietary needs, or seasonal vegetables without losing its essence. Whether you are cooking for family, preparing lunches for the week, or simply craving a warm bowl of homemade food, this dish adapts effortlessly.
Cooking at home is often about finding recipes that feel reliable and rewarding, and this stir-fry bowl fits that role beautifully. It encourages creativity while offering structure, allowing you to enjoy the process as much as the result. Once you try it, this recipe is likely to become a regular part of your meal rotation, offering comfort and flavor whenever you need it most.
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Easy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl with Garlic Veggies & Steamy Rice
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A simple, hearty bowl made with savory ground beef, garlic-infused vegetables, and fluffy rice for a comforting homemade meal.
Ingredients
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Long-grain white rice – 1½ cups (300 g)
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Water – 3 cups (720 ml)
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Salt – ½ teaspoon
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Ground beef (lean) – 1 lb (450 g)
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Onion, finely chopped – 1 medium (150 g)
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Garlic cloves, minced – 8 cloves
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Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons (45 ml)
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Oyster sauce (non-alcoholic) – 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
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Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon (5 ml)
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Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
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Paprika – ½ teaspoon
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Broccoli florets – 2 cups (180 g)
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Bell peppers, sliced – 1½ cups (180 g)
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Carrots, julienned – 1 cup (120 g)
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Green beans – 1 cup (120 g)
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Vegetable oil – 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
Instructions
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Rinse rice and cook with water and salt until tender and fluffy.
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Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add onion and garlic, then stir in sauces and seasonings.
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Stir-fry vegetables with garlic in a separate pan until crisp-tender.
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Assemble bowls with rice, beef, and vegetables.
Notes
This recipe is easy to customize with different vegetables or rice varieties. Store leftovers in airtight containers and reheat gently for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
