12 Easy Beef Stir Fry Dinner Recipes

1. Mongolian Beef

Sticky, savory Mongolian beef is a takeout classic, and this version needs only two tablespoons of oil, so there is no deep frying. Sear the beef, simmer a quick sauce, and toss everything together in one pan.

The beef gets crisp, caramelized edges, and the sauce is glossy, sweet, and rich with garlic and ginger. Long pieces of green onion add a fresh bite.

Ingredients

Beef

• 1 1/2 lb flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Sauce

• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tsp sesame oil

To finish

• 6 scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces

Instructions

1. Toss the sliced beef in the cornstarch until lightly coated, shaking off the extra.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Sear the beef in two batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side until browned and crisp at the edges, then remove it.
3. Reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
4. Pour in the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and sesame oil and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thick.
5. Return the beef, add the scallions, and toss for 1 minute until coated. Serve over rice.

↑ Back to all recipes

2. Black Pepper Beef

Black pepper beef is a bold, peppery stir fry with tender beef, sweet bell peppers, and onions. It comes together in 25 minutes and tastes like a restaurant dish.

The sauce is savory with a warm, slow kick from freshly cracked black pepper, and the vegetables stay crisp. Use plenty of pepper, since it is the star.

Ingredients

Beef

• 1 1/2 lb flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Sauce

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp cornstarch

Stir fry

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, cut in wedges
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Toss the beef with the soy sauce, cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon oil and let it sit for 10 minutes.
2. Whisk the sauce ingredients together in a small bowl.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear the beef for 1 to 2 minutes per side in two batches, then remove it.
4. Add the remaining oil, the garlic, peppers, and onion and stir fry for 3 minutes until crisp-tender.
5. Pour in the sauce and simmer for 1 minute, then return the beef and toss. Serve with rice.

↑ Back to all recipes

3. Beef and Broccoli

Beef and broccoli is one of the most ordered takeout dishes for good reason. This version uses a hoisin and garlic sauce for a deeper, slightly sweet flavor.

The beef stays tender, the broccoli stays bright green, and the glossy sauce coats everything. It is a balanced dinner in one pan.

Ingredients

Beef

• 1 lb flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Sauce

• 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp cornstarch

Stir fry

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Toss the beef with the soy sauce and cornstarch. Whisk the sauce ingredients together.
2. Steam or blanch the broccoli for 2 minutes until bright green, then drain.
3. Sear the beef in 1 tablespoon hot oil for 1 to 2 minutes per side in two batches, then remove it.
4. Add the remaining oil, garlic, and ginger for 30 seconds, then pour in the sauce and simmer for 1 to 2 minutes.
5. Return the beef and broccoli, toss for 1 minute, and serve over rice.

↑ Back to all recipes

4. Teriyaki Beef

Teriyaki beef with homemade sauce is sweeter and fresher than anything from a bottle, and it takes less than 25 minutes. The sauce reduces right in the pan.

The beef is coated in a sticky, glossy glaze of soy, honey, and garlic, with crisp peppers and carrots for color. Sesame seeds add a toasty finish.

Ingredients

Beef

• 1 1/2 lb sirloin, sliced thin against the grain
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Teriyaki sauce

• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp mirin or rice vinegar
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water

Vegetables and garnish

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 carrot, cut into matchsticks
• 2 scallions, sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Whisk the soy sauce, honey, mirin, garlic, and ginger in a bowl.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over high heat. Sear the beef for 1 to 2 minutes per side in two batches, then remove it.
3. Add the pepper and carrot and stir fry for 2 to 3 minutes until crisp-tender.
4. Pour in the sauce and simmer for 1 minute, then stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until thick and glossy.
5. Return the beef, toss to coat, and top with the scallions and sesame seeds.

↑ Back to all recipes

5. Mushroom Beef

Mushroom beef is a cozy, savory stir fry with tender beef, golden mushrooms, and broccoli in a rich brown sauce. It is a great way to stretch a pound of beef into a full meal.

The mushrooms soak up the sauce and add a deep, meaty flavor, while the broccoli adds freshness. Spoon it over hot rice.

Ingredients

Beef

• 1 lb flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Sauce

• 3 tbsp oyster sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Stir fry

• 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Toss the beef with the soy sauce and cornstarch. Whisk the sauce ingredients together.
2. Sear the beef in 1 tablespoon hot oil for 1 to 2 minutes per side in two batches, then remove it.
3. Add the remaining oil and the mushrooms and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until golden.
4. Add the garlic and broccoli with a splash of water, cover, and steam for 2 minutes.
5. Pour in the sauce, simmer for 1 minute until thick, return the beef, and toss. Serve over rice.

↑ Back to all recipes

6. Chili Garlic Beef

Chili garlic beef is for anyone who likes a little heat. Crisp-seared beef is tossed with sliced garlic, dried chilies, and a spicy-sweet sauce in under 20 minutes.

The sauce is bold, garlicky, and a little spicy, with caramelized beef edges and fresh scallions. Add more chili for more heat.

Ingredients

Beef

• 1 1/2 lb flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Sauce

• 3 tbsp chili garlic sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/4 cup water

Aromatics

• 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 6 dried red chilies
• 4 scallions, cut in 2-inch pieces

Instructions

1. Toss the beef with the cornstarch. Whisk the sauce ingredients together.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Sear the beef in two batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side, then remove it.
3. Add the remaining oil, garlic, and chilies and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the sauce and simmer for 1 minute.
5. Return the beef, add the scallions, and toss for 1 minute. Serve with rice.

↑ Back to all recipes

7. Ginger Beef

Crispy ginger beef is a crunchy, sticky favorite with a strong ginger flavor. Thin strips of beef are fried until crisp and tossed in a sweet and tangy sauce.

The coating stays crunchy, and the sauce is sticky with a bright bite from fresh ginger. Serve it over rice with a few steamed vegetables.

Ingredients

Beef

• 1 1/2 lb flank steak, cut into thin strips
• 1 egg white
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• About 1 cup vegetable oil for frying

Sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water

Aromatics

• 3 tbsp fresh ginger, cut into thin matchsticks
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 carrot, cut into matchsticks
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Toss the beef with the egg white, then coat it in the cornstarch.
2. Heat the oil to 350°F and fry the beef in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until crisp and golden. Drain on a rack.
3. Pour off all but 1 tablespoon oil. Cook the ginger, garlic, carrot, and pepper flakes for 1 minute.
4. Add the soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, water, and sesame oil and simmer for 2 minutes, then stir in the cornstarch slurry until thick.
5. Add the beef, toss quickly, and serve right away.

↑ Back to all recipes

8. Sweet and Sour Beef

Sweet and sour beef is a colorful family favorite with crispy beef, juicy pineapple, and bell peppers in a tangy red-orange sauce. The sauce comes together in 5 minutes.

The beef is crisp on the outside and tender inside, and the sauce balances sweet and tangy flavors. Kids love this one.

Ingredients

Beef

• 1 1/2 lb sirloin, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp salt
• About 1/2 cup vegetable oil for shallow frying

Sauce

• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water

Vegetables

• 1 red bell pepper, cut in chunks
• 1 green bell pepper, cut in chunks
• 1 cup pineapple chunks

Instructions

1. Season the beef with the salt, dip it in the egg, and coat it in the cornstarch.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the beef in batches for 2 to 3 minutes, turning once, until golden. Drain on paper towels.
3. Whisk the sugar, vinegar, ketchup, pineapple juice, and soy sauce in a pot and bring to a simmer. Stir in the slurry and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until glossy.
4. Stir fry the peppers in a splash of oil for 2 to 3 minutes, then add the pineapple and the sauce.
5. Add the beef, toss gently, and serve over rice.

↑ Back to all recipes

9. Sesame Beef

Sesame beef is crispy beef in a sticky honey soy glaze covered in toasted sesame seeds. Serve it with steamed broccoli for an easy, complete dinner.

The glaze is sweet, savory, and nutty, and it clings to every crisp piece of beef. Fresh sesame seeds add a toasty crunch.

Ingredients

Beef

• 1 1/2 lb flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp salt
• About 1/2 cup vegetable oil for shallow frying

Sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water

To finish

• 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 2 cups steamed broccoli
• 2 scallions, sliced

Instructions

1. Season the beef with the salt and coat it in the cornstarch, shaking off the excess.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet and fry the beef in batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side until crisp. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a clean pan, combine the soy sauce, honey, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and water and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the slurry and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until thick and glossy.
5. Add the beef, toss to coat, then top with the sesame seeds and scallions and serve with the broccoli.

↑ Back to all recipes

10. Beef and Green Beans

Beef and green beans is a simple, savory stir fry with blistered green beans and tender beef in a garlicky sauce. It is a fast weeknight dinner using ordinary ingredients.

The beans get a little charred and stay crisp, and the beef soaks up the savory sauce. Serve it with a bowl of rice.

Ingredients

Beef

• 1 lb flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Sauce

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp rice wine or dry sherry
• 1/4 cup beef broth

Stir fry

• 12 oz green beans, trimmed
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Toss the beef with the soy sauce and cornstarch. Whisk the sauce ingredients together.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over high heat. Cook the green beans for 4 to 5 minutes until blistered and tender-crisp, then remove them.
3. Add the remaining oil and sear the beef for 1 to 2 minutes per side in two batches.
4. Add the garlic and ginger for 30 seconds, then return the beans and pour in the sauce.
5. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until glossy and serve over rice.

↑ Back to all recipes

11. Korean Beef Bowl

Korean beef bowls are a quick, balanced dinner of sweet and savory beef over rice with fresh toppings. The beef cooks in 10 minutes in a simple soy and brown sugar sauce.

The beef is juicy with a caramelized sweet-salty flavor, and the runny egg, crisp cucumber, carrots, and tangy kimchi add contrast. Build the bowl any way you like.

Ingredients

Beef

• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

Sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

For the bowls

• 3 cups cooked rice
• 4 eggs, fried
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 cup kimchi
• Sesame seeds and sliced scallions

Instructions

1. Whisk the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and pepper flakes together.
2. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5 to 6 minutes, breaking it up, then drain the extra fat.
3. Add the garlic and ginger for 30 seconds, then pour in the sauce and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the beef is glazed.
4. Fry the eggs sunny-side up in a little oil for 2 to 3 minutes.
5. Divide the rice into bowls and top with the beef, egg, carrots, cucumber, and kimchi, then finish with sesame seeds and scallions.

↑ Back to all recipes

12. Orange Beef

Orange beef is crispy beef in a sticky sauce made from fresh orange juice and zest. It tastes brighter and fresher than takeout and takes about 40 minutes.

The beef is crunchy outside and tender inside, and the sauce is sweet, tangy, and fragrant with orange. Scallions add a little color and freshness.

Ingredients

Beef

• 1 1/2 lb flank steak, cut into thin strips
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp salt
• About 1 cup vegetable oil for frying

Sauce

• 3/4 cup fresh orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water

To finish

• 2 scallions, sliced

Instructions

1. Season the beef with the salt, dip it in the egg, and coat in the cornstarch.
2. Heat the oil to 350°F and fry the beef in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until crisp and golden. Drain on a rack.
3. Combine the orange juice, zest, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and pepper flakes in a skillet and simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the slurry and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until thick and glossy.
5. Add the beef, toss to coat, and top with the scallions. Serve right away over rice.

↑ Back to all recipes

Tired of Deciding What’s for Dinner?

Get a done-for-you weekly meal plan with easy recipes and shopping lists, so dinner is never stressful again. 👉 [your referral link]