Are you a fan of bold flavors and spicy dishes? Look no further than the vibrant cuisine of Thailand! With its rich aroma of chilies, garlic, and fish sauce, Thai cooking has become a staple in many households around the world. And what’s better than combining these flavors with the comfort of ground beef? In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouth-watering Spicy Thai Ground Beef Recipes that will leave your taste buds dancing. From classic stir-fries to innovative salads and curries, each dish is carefully crafted to balance the perfect amount of heat and savory flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these recipes are sure to become instant favorites in your household.
Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry with Chilies
A flavorful and spicy stir-fry that combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the savory taste of beef, all wrapped up in a fragrant basil sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 small chilies, seeded and chopped
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add garlic, onion, and chilies; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
6. Add beef back to the pan and stir-fry until coated with sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped Thai basil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Thai Beef Larb Salad
This Spicy Thai Beef Larb Salad is a flavorful and refreshing twist on the classic Thai dish, with tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and a spicy kick from the chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Toasted peanuts or cashews for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine beef, mixed greens, cilantro, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, ginger, and chili flakes.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with toasted nuts if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Thai Ground Beef and Green Bean Curry
This flavorful and aromatic curry is a popular Thai dish that combines the savory taste of ground beef with the crunch of green beans and the warmth of spices. Serve over steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups mixed green beans (such as green beans, snap peas, and bell peppers)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the green beans in a pot of boiling water until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, curry paste, coconut milk, fish sauce, sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Add the cooked green beans and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Beef Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional wraps. Tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and a rich peanut sauce all come together in a delightful package.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, kale, etc.)
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add soy sauce, lime juice, and honey to the skillet; stir to combine.
3. Warm the mixed greens in a separate pan with a little oil.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing cooked beef onto a lettuce leaf, followed by bean sprouts, cucumber, and cilantro.
5. Drizzle with peanut butter sauce (simply mix all ingredients together).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Coconut Beef Noodle Soup
A creamy and aromatic soup that combines the flavors of Thailand with tender beef and soft noodles. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1/2 cup Thai red curry paste
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 8 oz rice noodles
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large pot or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
4. Add the curry paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Pour in the beef broth, coconut milk, fish sauce, soy sauce, cumin, and turmeric. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Add the cooked noodles and beef back into the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Beef and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand with this quick and easy stir-fry recipe. Tender beef, crunchy bell peppers, and aromatic spices come together in a flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and curry paste. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return the beef to the pan and stir-fry until coated with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro or scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Beef Mince with Holy Basil
This flavorful dish combines tender beef mince with aromatic holy basil, chili peppers, and savory soy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an accompaniment to rice or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef mince
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2-3 Thai chili peppers, sliced
– 2 cups holy basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the beef mince; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Add the sliced chili peppers and holy basil leaves; stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Season with soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Beef and Eggplant Basil Stir-Fry
This vibrant stir-fry combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the sweetness of eggplant, all wrapped up in a fragrant basil sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups mixed Thai basil leaves and stems
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, then sauté garlic, ginger, and eggplant until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in Thai basil, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and brown sugar. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Return beef to the pan and stir-fry until coated with the basil sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Beef and Rice Noodle Bowls
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple and satisfying recipe. Juicy beef, crunchy vegetables, and savory sauce come together in a harmonious union.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining oil, onion, and garlic to the pan. Cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in curry paste, soy sauce, and fish sauce. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add cooked beef back into the pan and stir to combine.
7. Serve over cooked rice noodles and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Thai Beef Meatballs in Red Curry Sauce
A flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, these Thai-inspired beef meatballs are simmered in a rich and creamy red curry sauce, perfect for serving over rice or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup red curry paste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix meatball ingredients in a bowl and shape into 20-25 meatballs.
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, heat curry paste over medium-high heat for 1 minute.
4. Add beef broth, coconut milk, and browned meatballs to the skillet. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Beef and Pineapple Fried Rice
This flavorful fried rice dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavors of beef and Thai spices, making it a perfect blend of East meets West. With its simplicity and quick cooking time, this recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Thai jasmine rice
– 1 cup diced beef (such as sirloin or ribeye), cooked and set aside
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cooked beef, pineapple, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet; stir-fry until combined with the meat and vegetables, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro or scallions; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Beef Stuffed Peppers with Lemongrass
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand in this unique twist on stuffed peppers. Tender beef and crunchy vegetables are infused with the aromatic essence of lemongrass, all wrapped up in a vibrant bell pepper package.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for brushing peppers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook beef strips with garlic, ginger, and lemongrass until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked rice, cilantro, soy sauce, and fish sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers on a baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Thai Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A flavorful and aromatic stir-fry that combines tender beef, crisp cabbage, and savory spices. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, cumin, and turmeric to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the sliced cabbage and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the beef strips to the skillet and stir to combine with the cabbage mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Beef and Mango Salad with Mint
This refreshing salad combines sweet and tangy flavors of mango and lime juice with the bold taste of grilled beef, all tied together with a sprinkle of fresh mint. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish to add some excitement to your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strip loin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill beef strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
3. In a large bowl, combine mango, mint leaves, lime juice, fish sauce, brown sugar, and jalapeño pepper.
4. Add the grilled beef strips to the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Beef and Sweet Potato Curry
This flavorful and aromatic curry combines tender beef, sweet potatoes, and a blend of Thai spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste; cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
3. Add beef; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add sweet potatoes; cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until slightly tender.
5. Pour in coconut milk and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low; let curry simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender and flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Thai Beef Satay Skewers with Peanut Dip
Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with these succulent beef satay skewers served with a creamy peanut dip. Perfect for a quick and delicious appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into thin strips
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 20 bamboo skewers
– Peanut dip ingredients (see below)
Peanut Dip:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), garlic, brown sugar, ginger, salt, and pepper. Add beef strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread marinated beef onto bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill satay for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Serve with peanut dip (mix all ingredients together in a bowl).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Beef and Glass Noodle Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines tender beef strips, chewy glass noodles, and crunchy vegetables, all tied together with a zesty Thai dressing. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 cup glass noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (bok choy, mint, basil)
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp Thai fish sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Grill or pan-fry beef strips until cooked through. Slice into thin strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, bean sprouts, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
4. Add cooked beef and glass noodles on top of the vegetables.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together Thai fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Beef and Bamboo Shoot Stir-Fry
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand with this quick and easy stir-fry, featuring tender beef, crunchy bamboo shoots, and a medley of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, snow peas)
– 1 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, then sauté mixed vegetables, bamboo shoots, garlic, and ginger for 4-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to the wok, adding soy sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 spicy Thai ground beef recipes! From classic stir-fries and curries to innovative salads and noodle bowls, this collection has something for every level of spice lover. Discover the bold flavors of Thailand in dishes like Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry with Chilies, Spicy Thai Beef Larb Salad, and Thai Coconut Beef Noodle Soup. Whether you’re a fan of peanuts, chilies, or lemongrass, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for something new and delicious.