Looking for a quick and tasty meal? My Garlic Chili Beef Stir Fry takes just 15 minutes! With tender beef sirloin, zesty garlic, and vibrant peppers, this dish packs flavor and color. I’ll guide you through easy steps that make cooking fun and fast. Plus, you’ll get tips on adjusting the spice to match your taste. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will impress anyone at your table!

Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-2 red chilies, sliced (adjust to your spice preference)
Vegetables
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 1 medium onion, sliced
Seasonings and Oils
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
When you gather your ingredients, focus on freshness. Choose bright bell peppers and firm beef. The garlic and chilies add a punch, so pick the right heat level for you. If you love spice, go for two chilies. For a milder dish, stick with one.
Using quality soy sauce and sesame oil will enhance the flavor. The cornstarch helps tenderize the beef and gives it a nice texture.
This mix of ingredients makes for a quick, tasty dish. You can change the veggies if you like. Just keep the main flavors in mind.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Beef
To start, take your beef sirloin and slice it thinly against the grain. This helps keep it tender. In a bowl, mix the beef with cornstarch, ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Toss the beef well, so it gets coated. Set it aside for about 10 minutes. This marinating step helps to create a nice texture.
Preparing Vegetables
While the beef marinates, it’s time to get the veggies ready. Slice the red and green bell peppers into strips. Next, slice the onion and the chilies. For the garlic, mince it finely. Having all your veggies prepped makes cooking quick and easy.
Cooking Process
Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add vegetable oil and wait until it shimmers. Now, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Let it sear for 2 to 3 minutes without stirring. This gives it a good brown crust. Then, stir-fry the beef for about 2 to 3 more minutes until it’s mostly cooked.
Next, push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add the minced garlic and sliced chilies to the other side. Sauté them for about 30 seconds until they smell great. Then, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
Finally, drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the stir-fry. Toss everything together to coat it well. Cook for one more minute. Remove from heat and serve hot over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions for freshness. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Sear
High heat is key to a great stir fry. It helps the beef brown nicely, sealing in the juices. Start by heating your skillet or wok until it shimmers. This shows it’s hot enough. When you add the beef, don’t stir it right away. Let it sear for 2-3 minutes. This creates a tasty crust. Once you see that brown color, then stir it. The perfect sear makes a big difference in taste.
Adjusting Spice Levels
You can change the spice level easily. If you like it hot, use more chilies. For a milder dish, use fewer. I suggest starting with one chili and tasting as you go. You can always add more later. Remember, the heat builds, so go slow. Your taste buds will thank you for this control.
Perfecting Flavor Balancing
Soy sauce and sesame oil are your best friends. Use soy sauce for umami flavor. It adds saltiness and depth. Sesame oil gives a nutty taste. Add it at the end to keep its flavor bright. A little goes a long way, so start with one tablespoon. Mix well to coat all the ingredients. This balance creates a delicious dish that sings with flavor.
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can easily swap beef for chicken or tofu in this recipe. Both options work well. For chicken, use thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh. If you choose tofu, pick firm tofu. Press it to remove water, then cut it into cubes. The cooking time may vary slightly. Chicken usually takes about the same time as beef. Tofu cooks faster, so stir-fry until golden. This way, you can enjoy different flavors while keeping the same great taste.
Different Vegetable Options
Feel free to mix up the veggies in your stir-fry. You can add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. These vegetables add color and nutrients. If you want a sweeter taste, try adding sliced snow peas or baby corn. You can also substitute the bell peppers with zucchini or mushrooms. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose. Stir-fry until they’re tender but still crisp for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve garlic chili beef stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles. You can use jasmine rice, brown rice, or whole wheat noodles. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Adding a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad can enhance your meal. For extra flavor, drizzle some extra soy sauce or chili oil on top. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. This makes the dish look bright and inviting.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To store leftovers, let the stir fry cool down first. Use an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh. This meal lasts up to three days in the fridge. When ready to eat, just take it out and reheat.
Reheating Instructions
The best way to reheat this dish is in a skillet. Heat it on medium until warm. Stir it well to heat evenly. You can also use a microwave. Place it in a bowl, cover it, and heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst for even warmth.
Freezing Guidelines
Yes, you can freeze garlic chili beef stir fry. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to three months. When you want to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a skillet for the best taste.
FAQs
How long does it take to make garlic chili beef stir fry?
This dish is quick! It takes just 15 minutes from start to finish. You spend 5 minutes prepping the ingredients and 10 minutes cooking. The fast cooking time makes this meal perfect for busy nights.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Use gluten-free soy sauce instead. Brands like Tamari work well and taste great. Just swap it in for regular soy sauce. This small change keeps the flavor while making it safe for gluten-free diets.
What can I serve with garlic chili beef stir fry?
This stir fry pairs well with cooked rice or noodles. You can also serve it with steamed broccoli or a fresh salad. These sides add color and balance to your meal. Enjoy your tasty and quick dinner!
This article covered how to make garlic chili beef stir-fry. We explored main ingredients like beef sirloin, garlic, and chilies. You learned about key vegetables and seasonings. I shared step-by-step instructions for preparing your dish. You also discovered tips for cooking and storing leftovers.
Always feel free to adjust spice levels to fit your taste. With a few changes, you can create your version. Whether you choose beef, chicken, or tofu, enjoy the meal you made. Happy cooking!
