Spicy Beef Stir Fry

Our spicy beef stir fry is a flavorful, protein-packed dish that transforms your kitchen into a gourmet Asian fusion restaurant. Juicy strips of sirloin steak are quickly seared and tossed with bell peppers and spinach in a fiery coconut milk sauce that’s the perfect balance of heat, tang and creaminess.

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the family on a busy weeknight, this 30-minute wonder results in a delicious, restaurant-worthy meal. Serve it with rice or noodles or amp up the nutrition by adding more vegetables—snow peas, broccoli, water chestnuts and baby corn all work exceptionally well.

Spicy Beef Stir Fry Ingredients

• Beef: This spicy beef stir fry uses top sirloin steak cut into thin slices, which cooks quickly while remaining tender and juicy. Here are the best cuts of beef every home cook should know.
• Ginge: Freshly minced ginger adds an aromatic warmth to the recipe.
• Garlic: Minced garlic is a key ingredient added to enhance the pungency of the dish.
• Coconut milk: Light coconut milk creates a creamy sauce for the spicy beef stir fry and helps balance the spice.
• Sugar: Two tablespoons of granulated white sugar is added to the sauce to help balance the heat from the sriracha and jalapeno and the tang from the lime.
• Sriracha: Sriracha provides the spicy kick that gives this stir fry its heat. Our of sriracha? Here are the best sriracha substitutes.
• Lime zest and lime juice: Adding lime imparts brightness and balances the recipe’s sweet and spicy elements.
• Bell pepper: Red peppers add a vibrant color and slight sweetness to contrast the spice.
• Red onion: Thinly sliced red onion provides a sharp flavor to this dish.
• Jalapenos: Sliced jalapenos contribute additional heat to the stir fry and add color.
• Spinach: Baby spinach adds freshness and a boost of nutrients to the spicy beef stir fry.
• Green onions and cilantro: These fresh herbs add a pop of color and incredible flavor when used as garnishes over the stir fry.

Directions

Step 1: Marinate the beef

In a large bowl, combine the sliced beef with ginger, garlic, pepper and salt. Toss well to coat evenly and let the beef stand for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the coconut sauce

Whisk together the coconut milk, sugar, Sriracha, lime zest, lime juice and the remaining salt in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the beef

In a large skillet or wok, heat canola oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir fry for two to three minutes until it’s no longer pink. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Editor’s Tip: For perfectly seared beef, cook the beef in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan as this can lead to steaming instead of searing.

Step 4: Stir fry the vegetables

In the same skillet, heat the remaining oil. Add the sliced red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño and the last clove of minced garlic. Stir fry for two to three minutes or until the vegetables are crisp-tender.

Step 5: Combine and finish

Pour the coconut milk mixture into the skillet with the vegetables and bring to a simmer. Add the spinach and cooked beef back to the pan. Cook and stir occasionally until the spinach is wilted and the beef is heated through. Sprinkle the green onions and cilantro over the stir fry just before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Substitute chicken or shrimp: Swap the beef for thinly sliced chicken breast or shrimp for a different take on this dish. Or keep things vegetarian-friendly by using crispy tofu instead.
• Add extra vegetables: Boost the nutritional value of your spicy beef stir fry by adding broccoli, snap peas, water chestnuts or baby corn.
• Noodle it up: You can toss in some cooked rice noodles or lo mein noodles to make your meal even more substantial.
• Give it a crunch: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews on top for added crunch. Toasting the nuts boosts the flavor even more.

How to Store Spicy Beef Stir Fry

Any leftovers from this spicy beef stir fry recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can you freeze spicy beef stir fry?

While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze spicy beef stir fry for up to two months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How do you reheat spicy beef stir fry?

Place leftovers in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or beef broth to prevent drying and stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave leftovers in 30-second interval and stir inbetween each until hot.

Spicy Beef Stir Fry Tips

What is the best beef for spicy beef stir fry?

Sirloin steak is ideal for stir fry as it’s tender and quick to cook. However, if you easily swap it out for flank steak or skirt steak in a pinch. Here’s the right cut of steak for your recipe.

How do you keep beef tender in spicy beef stir fry?

To ensure tender slices of beef in every bite, slice it thinly against the grain and avoid overcooking. Stir fry the strips quickly over high heat for a short amount of time or just until it loses its pink color.

What can I serve with spicy beef stir fry?

This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice or even stir-fried noodles for a filling weeknight meal. You can also serve it with a side of garden spring rolls or an Asian-inspired cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast to the heat.