Vibrant, bold, and satisfying, this Spicy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl with Garlic Veggies & Steamy Rice brings together savory heat, colorful veggies, and fluffy rice in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of comforting meal you crave on a busy weeknight—full of flavor, quick to prepare, and easy to customize based on what you have in your fridge.

From the savory browned beef seasoned with chili and soy, to the garlicky zucchini, broccoli, and mushrooms that still have a slight crunch, every bite feels like a little trip to your favorite Asian takeout spot, without the wait (or price tag). Pair it all with a generous serving of steaming white rice and you’ve got a wholesome, hearty bowl that delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl with Garlic Veggies & Steamy Rice

Flavor-packed: The beef is simmered in a punchy, spicy-sweet sauce that clings to every bite.
Quick and easy: This is a weeknight dream—ready in under 30 minutes.
Customizable: Don’t have zucchini or mushrooms? Toss in snap peas, baby corn, or shredded carrots.
Meal prep friendly: Store leftovers in the fridge and you’ve got lunch that tastes just as good the next day.
Family-approved: You can dial the heat up or down depending on your crew’s spice tolerance.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this dish seamless, having the right tools can make a difference:

Large Skillet or Wok: This is essential for quick stir-frying. A wok retains high heat better, helping veggies sear without turning soggy.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For tossing the beef and vegetables quickly and evenly.
Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: You’ll be doing quite a bit of slicing—from bell peppers to zucchini and mushrooms.
Rice Cooker or Saucepan: For perfectly fluffy rice without babysitting.
Small Mixing Bowl: To whisk your stir-fry sauce ingredients in advance so you can pour and go.

These tools help streamline the process, ensuring everything stays hot, fresh, and flavorful from pan to plate.

Ingredients for the Spicy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl with Garlic Veggies & Steamy Rice

Ground Beef – The heart of this recipe. Choose lean beef for a rich taste without excess grease.
White Rice – Steamed to perfection, it serves as the neutral base soaking up all the saucy goodness.
Soy Sauce – Brings deep umami flavor and saltiness to the beef.
Garlic – Adds depth and aromatic punch that defines the stir-fry character.
Zucchini – Light and slightly sweet, it balances out the heat and adds freshness.
Red Bell Pepper – Brings color, crunch, and a subtle sweetness.
Broccoli Florets – Nutritious and vibrant, they retain bite and soak in the sauce.
Mushrooms – Earthy, meaty texture that enhances the umami in the dish.
Green Onions – A pop of freshness and color added right at the end.
Chili Paste or Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – For that signature spicy kick.
Sesame Oil – Just a drizzle for that nutty, toasty finish.

How To Make the Spicy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl with Garlic Veggies & Steamy Rice

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant. Pour in the soy sauce, chili paste, and a dash of sesame oil. Let the mixture simmer so the beef absorbs all the bold, spicy flavor.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Veggies

In the same skillet or separately, stir-fry the sliced zucchini, red bell peppers, broccoli, and mushrooms until just tender. The veggies should still have a little bite to contrast the soft beef.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Add the beef back in with the veggies. Toss everything together so the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly. Adjust seasoning or spice level as needed.

Step 5: Serve Hot Over Rice

Spoon the stir-fry mixture over bowls of freshly steamed white rice. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

How to Serve & Store Your Stir-Fry Bowl

Serve this dish warm in deep bowls to keep all that saucy flavor tucked in with the rice. It pairs perfectly with a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you’re feeling fancy.

To store, let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet with a splash of water to bring the moisture back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great and keeps things lighter.

What type of rice is best?

Jasmine or short-grain white rice is ideal. Brown rice or cauliflower rice also works if you want a healthier base.

How can I make this vegetarian?

Substitute the beef for crumbled tofu or tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of meat-based sauces.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes! Portion the beef-veggie mix and rice separately in freezer-safe containers. It reheats beautifully for up to a month.

What other sauces can I use?

Hoisin sauce or oyster sauce can replace or mix with soy sauce for different flavor notes.

Can I add eggs to this recipe?

Totally! A soft boiled or fried egg on top adds richness and makes it extra filling.

Want More Dinner Bowl Ideas?

If this stir-fry bowl hit the spot, you’ll love trying these other hearty creations from the Kitchen By Kate collection:

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for something cheesy and cozy.
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni if you’re craving pasta and bold flavor.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a handheld option packed with protein.
Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce for that crispy-creamy combo.
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese when you need a comforting carb-loaded treat.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add more spice or toss in your favorite veggies? Did you serve it with brown rice or jasmine?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

More everyday dinner inspiration is waiting for you over on my Pinterest Kitchen By Kate.