Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Ground Beef and Peanut Sauce
A savory stir-fry featuring spiralized zucchini noodles tossed with spiced ground beef and a creamy keto peanut sauce. This asian-inspired keto (low carb, high protein) ready in about 27 minutes blends 85% lean ground beef, medium, spiralized zucchini, natural, unsweetened peanut butter into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 480 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. 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.
Ingredients
- 1 lb, 85% lean ground beef
- 3 medium, spiralized zucchini
- 3 tbsp natural, unsweetened peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 sliced green onions
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb ground beef, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger. Cook while breaking up meat for 6-7 minutes until browned and fragrant. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp natural unsweetened peanut butter, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp sesame oil, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes until smooth.
- Step 3: Add spiralized noodles from 3 medium zucchinis to the skillet with the beef and toss to combine. Pour the peanut sauce over the mixture and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until noodles are just tender and evenly coated.
- Step 4: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced green onions. Serve immediately while warm.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Ground Beef and Peanut Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 27 minutes (15 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Ground Beef and Peanut Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Ground Beef and Peanut Sauce?
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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Ground Beef and Peanut Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Ground Beef and Peanut Sauce 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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