Dinner

Ground Beef Stir Fry with Zucchini, Mushrooms, and Maple Soy Sauce Recipe

ByCharlotte Montgomery December 6, 2025December 6, 2025

Introduction

This Ground Beef Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that combines savory beef with fresh vegetables and a tangy sauce. It’s perfect for those looking for a healthy, satisfying dish with minimal effort.

A white bowl filled with two layers: the bottom layer is fluffy white rice with a soft texture, and the top layer is a mix of cooked ground beef, brown with a crumbly texture, sliced light brown mushrooms, bright green zucchini slices, thin orange carrot strips, and small green garnish pieces scattered on top. The bowl sits on a blue and white striped cloth with a fork placed beside it on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound 80-20 ground beef
2 medium zucchini, sliced
8 ounces brown mushrooms or baby Bella, sliced
1 carrot, julienned
Chives or green onions, optional for garnish

For the Sauce:

3 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or GF Tamari for gluten-free)
3 Tbsp BBQ sauce (original, sweet, or smoky)
2 Tbsp real maple syrup
2 garlic cloves, grated or minced
1 tsp ginger, grated (or 1 cube frozen ginger, or 1/4 tsp ground ginger)
1 Tbsp sesame oil

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine all the sauce ingredients and set aside.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the ground beef and sauté, breaking it up with a spatula, for about 5 minutes until fully cooked and lightly browned. Transfer the beef to a separate bowl, leaving any oil in the pan.
Step 3: Add a little more oil to the skillet if needed. Add the sliced zucchini, mushrooms, and julienned carrot. Sauté and stir frequently for 2-3 minutes, until the zucchini is half cooked but still crunchy. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy vegetables.
Step 4: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, pour in the sauce, and stir to combine. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and zucchini is crisp-tender.
Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve over freshly cooked rice or in lettuce cups. Garnish with chives or green onions if desired.

Tips & Variations

For added crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Add bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and texture.
Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup to suit your taste.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. The vegetables may soften slightly when reheated, so avoid overcooking.