Beef and Zucchini Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A quick keto stir-fry combining tender beef strips with fresh zucchini, enhanced by aromatic garlic and ginger for a flavorful low-carb dinner. This asian-inspired keto (low carb, high protein) ready in about 25 minutes pairs thinly sliced beef sirloin, medium, sliced into half-moons zucchini, minced garlic for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 2 Asian cuisine 420 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 8 oz thinly sliced beef sirloin and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned and just cooked through. Remove beef and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 2 medium sliced zucchinis (half-moons) and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently until zucchini is tender but still crisp.
  4. Step 4: Return the cooked beef to the skillet, add 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 2 more minutes until heated through.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced green onions before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Beef and Zucchini Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Beef and Zucchini Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep thinly sliced beef sirloin from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Beef and Zucchini Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Beef and Zucchini Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Beef and Zucchini Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger low carb?

Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb, high protein based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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