Description
A hearty, western-themed comfort meal that cooks in one skillet in just 20 minutes. This stir-fry features seared beef strips, crisp vegetables, and a bold smoky-sweet glaze, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, sliced into thin strips against the grain
- 2 large bell peppers, sliced into thin strips
- 1 large yellow or white onion, sliced into wedges or half-moons
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned/drained)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- ¼ cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice the beef into ¼-inch strips and toss with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, minced garlic, grated ginger, and beef broth. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef strips in a single layer and sear for 2 minutes per side until browned. Remove beef and set aside.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Sauté bell peppers and onions for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add corn and cook for 1 minute.
- Return the beef to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the sauce mixture over everything.
- Stir gently to coat and simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
Notes
Slice beef against the grain for tenderness. Do not crowd the pan when searing to ensure a good crust. Use fresh ingredients for best texture; if using frozen veggies, thaw and pat dry first. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cu
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 32
Keywords: cowboy stir fry, one pan dinner, quick weeknight meals, beef stir fry, easy dinner, 20 minute meals, western food, healthy dinner