Name: 30 Minute Ginger Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491608H13M22S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice; 1 tsp sesame oil (optional); 2–3 tbsp neutral oil (for cooking); 2 green onions, sliced; Red chili flakes (optional, to taste); Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

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30 Minute Ginger Beef is a fast, flavorful stir-fry that brings together tender strips of beef with a bold, gingery sauce that’s slightly sweet, savory, and just a little spicy. I love how quickly this dish comes together—perfect for busy nights when I still want something homemade and satisfying. Serve it over rice or noodles, and it’s a total dinner win.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quicker and better than takeout, and I can control the ingredients to make it just how I like. The fresh ginger adds warmth and zing, the sauce is glossy and rich, and the thin beef strips cook up in minutes. It’s fast, easy to prep, and full of flavor. 30 Minute Ginger Beef

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
Cornstarch
Soy sauce
Fresh ginger, grated
Garlic, minced
Brown sugar or honey
Rice vinegar or lime juice
Sesame oil (optional for flavor)
Green onions, sliced
Oil for cooking
Red chili flakes (optional for heat)
Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Directions

I toss the beef strips in cornstarch until lightly coated.
In a small bowl, I whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil.
I heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
I cook the beef in batches until browned and crispy on the edges, then remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, I pour in the sauce and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
I return the beef to the skillet, toss to coat in the sauce, and cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is hot and glazed.
I top it with green onions and red chili flakes, then serve over rice or noodles.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes just 30 minutes from prep to plate. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that still feels special.

Variations

I add bell peppers or snap peas for a veggie boost.
I use chicken or tofu instead of beef for a different protein.
I serve it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
I add orange zest for a citrusy twist on the sauce.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, I use a skillet over low heat or the microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if the glaze needs loosening. 30 Minute Ginger Beef

FAQs

Can I use another cut of beef?

Yes, I like flank steak, but sirloin, ribeye, or even skirt steak all work well when sliced thin.

How do I keep the beef tender?

I slice it thinly against the grain and don’t overcook it—just a quick sear on high heat is enough.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. I use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce and double-check all other ingredients.

Is it very spicy?

Not unless I add chili flakes or hot sauce. I keep it mild or add spice depending on what I’m in the mood for.

Can I prep it ahead?

I slice the beef and mix the sauce in advance, then cook everything fresh when I’m ready—it makes dinner even faster.

Conclusion

30 Minute Ginger Beef is a quick, bold, and satisfying dish that brings big flavor with little effort. I love how it hits the spot every time—whether I need something fast after a long day or want to impress with a homemade stir-fry. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is secretly super simple.