Budget-Friendly Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry

This Easy Budget-Friendly Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s ready in just 25 minutes. At $1.78 per serving, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and balanced dinner without overspending!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey) - $3.50

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced - $0.80

• 1 small zucchini, sliced - $0.70

• 1 cup broccoli florets - $1.00

• 1/2 cup shredded carrots - $0.40

• 3 cloves garlic, minced - $0.20Easy Budget-Friendly Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium) - $0.30

• 1 tbsp olive oil - $0.10

• 1 tbsp cornstarch - $0.10

• 1/2 cup water - free

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Total Cost: ~$7.10 (serves 4, $1.78 per serving)

Instructions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, and cornstarch to make the sauce. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, and carrots to the skillet with the beef. Pour the sauce over the mixture, stirring to combine, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp. Add red pepper flakes, if desired, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320

• Protein: 22g

• Fat: 16g

• Carbohydrates: 20g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sodium: 650mg

• Serving Size: 1 portion (serves 4)

Things You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Quick, one-pan meal for easy cleanup

• Packed with protein and veggies, making it balanced and filling

• Simple, budget-friendly ingredients that are easy to find

• Kid-friendly flavors with customizable spice level

Expert Tips for Best Results

• Cut vegetables evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate

• Add vegetables in batches, starting with the firmer veggies like broccoli and carrots for even cooking

• Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness

Substitutions

• Swap ground beef for ground chicken or pork for a different flavor

• Use frozen mixed veggies if fresh isn’t available

• Substitute zucchini with snap peas or green beans for variety

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over rice or noodles for a more filling meal

• Pair with a side of steamed dumplings or egg rolls for an Asian-inspired dinner

• Top with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor