Garlic Ground Beef
Garlic ground beef is a quick and savory recipe with fresh garlic and beef, ready in 10 minutes. Perfect for easy dinners, bowls, or meal prep.
Equipment
- Wok or large heavy-bottomed skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Grater or Microplane for ginger and garlic
- Measuring spoons
- Rice cooker or microwave (if using instant rice)
- Knife and cutting board (if adding vegetables or garnishes)
- Serving bowls or plates
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef preferably 85% lean
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil such as canola or avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger grated (from a 2-inch piece; can use 1 Tbsp if preferred milder)
- 2 tablespoons fresh garlic grated (about 6 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt reduce if using full-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons agave syrup honey, sugar, or maple syrup
- Cooked rice for serving
- Optional: Sliced green onions Persian cucumbers, shredded carrots, or quick pickled vegetables for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients before you begin. If serving with rice, start cooking it first or use microwaveable rice for convenience.
- Heat a wok or large heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat. Add the oil.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add grated ginger and garlic. Stir continuously for 30 seconds, until fragrant and deeply yellow, but not browned.
- Add the ground beef and salt. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat into small crumbles. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is no longer pink, about 3 minutes.
- Add the soy sauce and sweetener. Stir well and cook for another minute, until the beef is glossy and just a little saucy (do not overcook or let the liquid evaporate completely).
- Serve hot over cooked rice. Garnish with green onions and raw or pickled vegetables if desired.
- For extra freshness, pair this dish with lemon basil tortellini or a simple cucumber salad.
Notes
This recipe is easily doubled for larger families or for meal prepping.
For a leaner version, use 90% ground beef and add a splash of water or stock for more sauce.
You may substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a different twist.
Adjust sweetness and salt to taste.
Try serving leftovers in lettuce wraps or as a filling for tacos.