Garlic Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry

Garlic Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish packed with tender beef strips, crisp asparagus, and a savory garlic sauce. This easy stir-fry comes together in minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
• Packed with protein and fresh vegetables
• A savory garlic sauce that enhances every bite
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
• Can be customized with different vegetables and proteins

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye), thinly sliced
• Asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• Garlic, minced
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Brown sugar
• Sesame oil
• Cornstarch
• Vegetable oil
• Ginger, grated
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• Green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

1. Marinate the Beef: Toss the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of water. Set aside.
3. Sauté the Beef: Heat oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Cook the beef in batches until browned, then remove and set aside.
4. Cook the Asparagus: In the same pan, add a little more oil and sauté asparagus for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
5. Combine Everything: Return the beef to the pan, pour in the sauce, and toss everything together. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Use Different Proteins: Swap beef for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Add More Vegetables: Try bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas.
• Make It Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through or microwave in short bursts.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen asparagus?

Yes, but thaw and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the best cut of beef for stir-fry?

Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye work well for tenderness.

How do I keep the beef tender?

Marinate with cornstarch and soy sauce, and cook over high heat quickly.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free oyster sauce.

Is this dish spicy?

Not naturally, but you can add chili flakes or sriracha for heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prep the beef and asparagus in advance, then cook fresh when ready to eat.

What type of oil is best for stir-frying?

Use high-smoke-point oils like vegetable, avocado, or peanut oil.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Slice chicken thinly and follow the same cooking steps.

What’s a good side dish for this stir-fry?

Steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles pair well.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If needed, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water and add to the stir-fry.

Conclusion

Garlic Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry is a flavorful, quick, and easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With its savory garlic sauce, tender beef, and fresh asparagus, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality stir-fry at home!