Spicy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowls with Garlic Veggies and Steamy Rice are one of my favorite weeknight dinners — quick, flavorful, and completely satisfying. The beef is rich and savory with a fiery kick, the vegetables are crisp-tender and garlicky, and the fluffy rice soaks up all those bold stir-fry juices. It’s a complete meal in one bowl that always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, flexible, and full of flavor. It comes together in under 30 minutes and works with whatever veggies I have on hand. The ground beef cooks quickly and absorbs all the spicy, garlicky sauce beautifully. Plus, I can adjust the heat level to suit my mood — and it’s just as good for lunch the next day. Spicy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl with Garlic Veggies & Steamy Rice

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the beef stir-fry:

Ground beef
Soy sauce
Brown sugar or honey
Sriracha or chili garlic sauce
Sesame oil
Rice vinegar
Garlic, minced
Fresh ginger, grated
Green onions, sliced
Red pepper flakes (optional for more heat)

For the garlic veggies:

Broccoli florets
Bell pepper, sliced
Carrot, thinly sliced
Snap peas or green beans (optional)
Garlic, minced
Olive oil or sesame oil
Salt and pepper

For serving:

Cooked jasmine or basmati rice
Sesame seeds (optional)
Extra green onions for garnish
Lime wedges (optional)

Directions

Cook the rice:
I start the rice first so it’s ready by the time the stir-fry is done. I cook it according to package instructions and keep it warm.
Make the sauce:
In a small bowl, I whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, sriracha, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
Cook the beef:
I heat a skillet or wok over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled. I drain excess grease if needed, then pour in the sauce and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to coat the beef and thicken slightly. I stir in green onions at the end.
Sauté the garlic veggies:
In a separate pan (or before the beef), I sauté the vegetables in oil over medium heat with garlic, salt, and pepper until just tender but still crisp. I keep the texture vibrant — not mushy.
Assemble the bowls:
I scoop the rice into bowls, top with the spicy ground beef, then pile on the garlic veggies. I garnish with sesame seeds, extra green onions, or lime if I’m feeling fancy.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes about 25–30 minutes total from start to finish.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu. I also switch up the veggies depending on what’s in my fridge — zucchini, cabbage, or mushrooms all work great. For a low-carb version, I serve everything over cauliflower rice.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I microwave or warm it in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce. The flavors get even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. Spicy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl with Garlic Veggies & Steamy Rice

FAQs

How spicy is this stir-fry?

It has a medium heat level thanks to the sriracha and red pepper flakes. I adjust the spice to taste or leave it out for a milder version.

Can I use frozen veggies?

Yes — I just thaw and drain them first to avoid excess water in the stir-fry. They cook quickly and still taste great.

What’s the best rice to use?

I love jasmine or basmati rice for their fluffy texture and subtle aroma. Short grain white rice or brown rice also work well.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely. I often prep the sauce and veggies ahead of time. The fully cooked dish also reheats beautifully for lunches or quick dinners.

Can I add an egg?

Yes — sometimes I fry or soft-boil an egg and place it on top for a little extra richness. It’s amazing with the spicy beef and rice.

Conclusion

Spicy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowls are the kind of meal I turn to again and again — quick, balanced, and bursting with flavor. With tender beef, crisp garlic veggies, and fluffy rice all layered in one bowl, it’s the perfect combination of comfort and heat. Whether I’m cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for days ahead, this dish never disappoints.