Quick Easy Dinner Beef Stir Fry

Name: Quick Easy Dinner Beef Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup snap peas; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; Cooked rice for serving

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Dishes

I love whipping up this Quick Easy Dinner Beef Stir Fry when I need something delicious yet straightforward. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish delivers a burst of flavor that satisfies my cravings after a long day. The combination of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight meal. Plus, it’s customizable, so I can easily switch up the veggies based on what I have in the fridge.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:10:35.718Z

When I first experimented with this Beef Stir Fry, I was amazed by how quickly it came together. The key was ensuring that my beef strips were thinly sliced, which helped them cook quickly and absorb all the wonderful flavors of the sauce. This method has become my go-to for busy evenings because it not only reduces cooking time but also keeps the beef juicy and tender.

What I love most about this stir fry is the flexibility it offers. I can add whatever vegetables I have on hand, from bell peppers to snap peas, and it always turns out delicious. Once, I even added some leftover broccoli, and it complemented the dish perfectly. The fresh crunch really elevates it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bursting with a variety of textures and flavors
Quick preparation without sacrificing taste
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables

Mastering The Stir Fry Technique

Stir frying is all about high heat and quick cooking. Make sure your skillet or wok is preheated on medium-high until the oil is shimmering before adding the beef. This ensures a good sear, which enhances both flavor and texture. Cook the beef in a single layer to prevent steaming; it should be browned on the outside and tender on the inside. If overcrowded, the meat will release moisture, leading to a less desirable texture.

To maintain the vibrant colors and crunch of your vegetables, add them in stages based on their cooking times. For instance, start with tougher vegetables like broccoli, which take a bit longer, and add quick-cooking ingredients like snap peas later in the process. Keeping vegetables slightly undercooked ensures they retain nutrients and has a delightful snap when bitten.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Don’t have soy sauce or oyster sauce on hand? You can substitute tamari for soy sauce for a gluten-free option, and a mix of soy sauce and a touch of honey can replace oyster sauce, providing a similar umami flavor. If you’re looking to enhance the stir fry's protein source, consider adding sliced chicken or tofu; just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.

Customization is one of the best aspects of a stir fry. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preference or what’s in season. Carrots, zucchini, and bok choy can all be excellent additions. Just remember to adjust cooking times—harder vegetables like carrots should be added earlier, while softer ones like zucchini can wait until the end.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a flavorful beef stir fry.

Ingredients

1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup snap peas
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Cooked rice for serving

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a quick and easy stir fry.

Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it sit for about 10 minutes.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Cook the Beef

Add the marinated beef to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes without stirring. Then, stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the beef and set aside.

Stir Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, sauté for about 30 seconds. Then, add the bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Combine and Serve

Return the beef to the skillet, mix everything together, and heat for an additional minute. Serve over cooked rice.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy beef stir fry!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

For a quicker weeknight dinner, you can prep the beef and vegetables in advance. Thinly slice the beef and marinate it in the soy and oyster sauces for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Chop your vegetables and store them in an airtight container; this technique not only speeds up cooking but also saves you time during busy weeknights.

You can also make the sauce in advance by mixing the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch, then storing it in the fridge until you need it. Keep in mind that cornstarch can settle, so give it a good shake or stir before using to ensure a cohesive sauce.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to revive the stir fry—this helps prevent it from becoming soggy. Adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain moisture without losing texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stir fry. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat on the stove. Just be aware that some vegetables may lose their crispness after freezing, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Chicken or even tofu works well in this stir fry.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include carrots, zucchini, or whatever veggies you have on hand.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this stir fry gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure the other ingredients are also gluten-free.