Dinner

Spicy Chili Garlic Beef Stir-Fry

Name: Spicy Chili Garlic Beef Stir-Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 400g beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 1 teaspoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sugar; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 small onion, sliced; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice for serving

ByMariem September 27, 2025

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Spicy Chili Garlic Beef Stir-Fry is a bold and savory dish made with tender beef strips seared at high heat and tossed with fresh chilies, garlic, and a flavorful sauce. Served over steamed rice or noodles, it’s a quick, satisfying meal for spice lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines intense flavor with minimal prep and fast cooking time. The beef is juicy and tender, while the chili garlic sauce adds heat, depth, and complexity. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, and the spice level can easily be adjusted to suit your preference. A go-to for anyone craving a restaurant-quality stir-fry at home.

Ingredients

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

Beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
Cornstarch
Soy sauce
Dark soy sauce
Oyster sauce
Fish sauce (optional)
Garlic, minced
Fresh red chilies, sliced (Thai or bird’s eye for heat)
Ginger, grated
Brown sugar
Vegetable oil
Scallions, chopped
Sesame oil (optional for finish)

Directions

Marinate the beef: In a bowl, toss sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and a little oil. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes.
Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), brown sugar, and a splash of water.
Stir-fry the beef: Heat oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Add the beef and stir-fry quickly until just cooked. Remove and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Stir-fry garlic, ginger, and chilies for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Combine: Return beef to the pan. Pour in the sauce and toss everything together until coated and heated through.
Finish: Garnish with scallions and a drizzle of sesame oil. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 3–4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use chicken or tofu in place of beef for a different protein.
Adjust the heat level by using milder or fewer chilies.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers, snow peas, or bok choy.
Make it saucier by increasing the sauce quantities slightly.
Serve with rice noodles instead of rice for a lighter base.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
Freezing: Not ideal, as stir-fried beef may toughen upon reheating.

FAQs

What beef cut works best for stir-fry?

Flank steak, sirloin, or skirt steak sliced thinly against the grain are ideal.

How do I keep the beef tender?

Marinate with cornstarch and cook quickly over high heat. Avoid overcooking.

Are Thai chilies very spicy?

Yes. Use fewer or switch to milder varieties like Fresno or red jalapeños if needed.

Can I use store-bought chili garlic sauce?

Yes, it can be used to intensify heat and add flavor. Adjust quantity to taste.

Can this dish be made ahead?

It’s best fresh, but it can be prepped in advance and cooked just before serving.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check other sauces for gluten-free certification.

Can I omit the sugar?

Yes, but the sugar balances the salt and heat. Reduce rather than eliminate for best flavor.

What sides pair well with this?

Steamed jasmine rice, garlic fried rice, or stir-fried greens work beautifully.

Can I add peanuts or cashews?

Yes, toasted nuts add texture and a nutty flavor that complements the spice.

What oil is best for high-heat stir-frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Conclusion

Spicy Chili Garlic Beef Stir-Fry is a flavorful and quick dish that delivers bold, aromatic heat and tender texture in every bite. Ideal for spice lovers and weeknight cooks alike, it brings together simple ingredients in a way that tastes anything but ordinary. With its flexibility and punchy flavor, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

Mariem