Easy Beef Stir Fry Recipe

This Easy Beef Stir Fry Recipe is a quick and flavorful dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights! Made with tender top sirloin steak, colorful vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, and tossed in a savory-sweet Asian BBQ sauce, this dish is packed with bold flavors. Serve it over fluffy white rice for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Ready in under 30 minutes, this stir fry recipe is versatile, gluten-free friendly (with Tamari soy sauce), and easily customizable to your taste. Perfect for fans of quick Asian-inspired dinners!

Ingredients

for Beef Stir Fry:

• 1 lb top sirloin steak, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 medium yellow zucchini, sliced diagonally
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 lb mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 garlic clove, minced or pressed
• 1/2 Tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 3 Tbsp oil, divided (choose a high-heat oil like vegetable or avocado oil)

for Asian BBQ Sauce:

• 3 Tbsp original BBQ sauce (we used Stubbs brand)
• 3 Tbsp maple syrup
• 2 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (we used Tamari for a gluten-free option)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, maple syrup, and soy sauce. Set aside.
2. Cook the Beef:
   Heat a large pan or wok over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. When the oil is hot, add the sliced beef in a single layer. Sauté for 2-3 minutes without stirring. Flip the beef and cook for another 2 minutes until almost cooked through. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then add the ginger and garlic. Sauté for 1 more minute. Drizzle the beef with the prepared sauce (about 5 tablespoons, or to taste) and stir-fry for 1 minute until the beef is fully cooked. Remove the beef from the pan, place it on a plate, and cover to keep warm. Wipe the pan clean with a paper towel.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in the clean pan over high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms, season lightly with salt and pepper, and stir-fry until golden brown (about 5 minutes). Transfer the mushrooms to the plate with the beef.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
   Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan. Once hot, add the sliced zucchini, onion, and red bell pepper. Stir-fry for 8 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and golden.
5. Combine and Serve:
   Return the beef and mushrooms to the pan with the vegetables. Drizzle in additional sauce to taste (about 2 tablespoons). Stir-fry until everything is heated through. Serve hot over a bed of steamy white rice, garnished with sesame seeds. Enjoy!

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Tips

• Meat Tips: For easier slicing, freeze the sirloin for 15-20 minutes before cutting it into thin strips.
• High Heat Cooking: Ensure your pan or wok is very hot to achieve the best sear on the beef and vegetables.
• Sauce Balance: Adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce to your liking by adding more maple syrup or soy sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap the beef for chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different take on the dish.
• Vegetable Swaps: Use broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn in place of or in addition to the zucchini and bell pepper.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of white rice.
• Spice It Up: Add red chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free soy sauce or Tamari to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can prep all the ingredients (slice vegetables, mix sauce, and cut beef) ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and cook fresh for the best results.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warm.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles for a satisfying meal.
• Pair with a light side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, or sliced green onions for extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Beef Stir Fry is packed with bold flavors, tender meat, and vibrant veggies, all tossed in a sweet and savory Asian BBQ sauce. It’s a quick and versatile dish perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. The recipe is simple to customize, allowing you to tailor it to your family’s tastes. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal go-to meal!