If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with fiery, garlicky goodness and just the right crunch, then this Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe should be your next kitchen adventure. Tender slices of beef mingle perfectly with crisp green beans, all enveloped in a bold, savory sauce that’s both spicy and slightly sweet. When served atop fluffy jasmine rice, this stir-fry transforms into the ultimate weeknight winner that takes less time than ordering takeout and tastes even better.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but essential, each playing a key role in balancing flavor, texture, and color for this vibrant stir-fry. From fresh green beans adding that fresh snap to the mix, to the perfect blend of sauces that create depth – every element counts.
- 1 lb flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain): Ensures tender, juicy beef that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps give the beef a silky, coated texture that locks in flavor.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (divided): Provides salty umami richness, split between marinade and sauce.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds a subtle sweet and savory depth unique to Asian stir-fries.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Brings a smooth, complex sweetness to balance the spice.
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce: Packs the heat and signature garlicky bite to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Brightens and balances out rich flavors with its tang.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Lends a gentle caramel undertone, smoothing out the spice.
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided): Perfect for stir-frying and creating those delicious seared bits on beef and green beans.
- 3 cups green beans (trimmed): Offers a crisp, fresh green contrast to rich beef.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the stir-fry with its unforgettable aromatic base.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (minced): Adds warmth and a subtle zing, lifting the flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Provides an extra layer of spice for heat lovers.
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice: The gentle, fluffy bed that soaks up every bit of sauce.
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, nutty finish that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Make Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by tossing the thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce in a bowl. This simple step helps tenderize the beef and creates a silky coating that makes the sauce cling perfectly. Letting it sit for 10 to 15 minutes gives time for flavors to meld and texture to improve, making each bite deliciously tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the beef marinates, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar in a small bowl. This concoction is where the magic happens—the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, tangy, and savory that defines this Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe.
Step 3: Cook the Green Beans
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the trimmed green beans and stir-fry for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re tender-crisp with a vibrant green color. This quick cooking preserves their snap and freshness, vital to contrast the tender beef later on. Once cooked, remove the beans and set them aside to keep that perfect texture.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef
Using the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil, then stir-fry the marinated beef in batches over high heat. Cook each batch for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the meat to brown beautifully without overcrowding the pan. This caramelization locks in flavor and adds a lovely umami char.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return all the beef to the skillet, then toss in the minced garlic, fresh ginger, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in the prepared sauce and stir in the sautéed green beans. Toss everything together for 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring the sauce evenly coats every succulent bite and the green beans are heated through but still crisp.
Step 6: Serve Over Rice
Spoon this vibrant stir-fry over steaming jasmine rice, letting the fluffy grains soak up the bold sauce. Add a sprinkle of sliced green onions and sesame seeds if you’d like, and get ready to dig into one of the most satisfying, flavor-packed meals you’ll make all week.
How to Serve Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your dish visually and taste-wise, sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds right before serving. The green onions contribute a fresh, mild zest, while sesame seeds add a subtle nuttiness and crunch that perfectly complement the stir-fry.
Side Dishes
This Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe is satisfying on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider a crisp Asian slaw or a light cucumber salad for refreshing contrast. Steamed dumplings or egg rolls also make excellent accompaniments for a full feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stir-fry in crispy lettuce cups for a hand-held meal that’s perfect for gatherings. Alternatively, plate it atop cauliflower rice or quinoa for a lower-carb option. You can also add a fried egg on top to introduce an indulgent richness and extra protein.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this vibrant stir-fry, cool any leftovers promptly and transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners the following days.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, separate the beef and green beans from the rice for best results. Freeze them in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, where they will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a dish almost as good as freshly made.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the beef from drying out. Stir frequently to warm everything evenly while preserving the crispness of the green beans as much as possible.
FAQs
Can I substitute other cuts of beef for flank steak?
Absolutely! Sirloin or skirt steak are great alternatives that also offer tenderness and flavor. Just be sure to slice thinly against the grain for the best texture.
How spicy is this stir-fry?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the chili garlic sauce and optional red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the spice by adding more sauce or skipping the flakes for a milder version.
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans work well if fresh aren’t available. Just thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent sogginess while still enjoying that lovely green bean crunch.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe as written uses soy sauce and oyster sauce that typically contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, opt for tamari or gluten-free versions of those sauces.
What rice works best with this stir-fry?
Jasmine rice is ideal because of its fragrant, slightly sticky texture that pairs perfectly with the saucy beef and green beans. You can also try basmati or brown rice for different textures and flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and exciting about the Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe that keeps me coming back to it time and time again. It offers big bold flavors, a satisfying texture, and is surprisingly quick and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a hungry family, this recipe is guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to your table. Give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Spicy Garlic Beef Stir-Fry with Green Beans & Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This spicy garlic beef stir-fry features tender flank steak slices, crisp green beans, and a flavorful, bold sauce made with chili garlic, hoisin, and oyster sauces. Served over fluffy jasmine rice, this dish is a quick, savory dinner perfect for busy weeknights and delivers an irresistible homemade alternative to takeout.
Ingredients
Beef Marinade
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce, divided
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 3 cups green beans, trimmed
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Other
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Toss well to coat evenly, and let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes to tenderize and flavor the meat.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar until the sugar dissolves, creating a balanced, bold stir-fry sauce.
- Cook the Green Beans: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the trimmed green beans and stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes until they become tender-crisp. Remove from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook the Beef: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the skillet. Stir-fry the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, and cook each batch for 2 to 3 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Add Aromatics and Spice: Return all the cooked beef to the skillet. Add minced garlic, ginger, and the optional red pepper flakes, stirring constantly and cooking for 1 minute until fragrant to build depth of flavor.
- Combine and Finish: Pour the prepared sauce and the cooked green beans into the skillet with the beef. Toss everything together thoroughly and stir-fry for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through and well-coated.
- Serve: Serve the spicy garlic beef and green beans hot over the cooked jasmine rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired to add freshness and crunch.
Notes
- You can substitute sirloin or skirt steak in place of flank steak for equally tender results.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing chili garlic sauce and red pepper flakes according to your preference.
- If fresh green beans are unavailable, use frozen ones—just thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the stir-fry.
- For added crunch, garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts.
