Basil Beef (Easy 20-Minute Skillet Dinner)

When basil is overflowing in the garden, this is the ground beef recipe I make on repeat. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy one-skillet Basil Beef is fresh, flavorful, and perfect served over jasmine rice, noodles, or tucked into crisp lettuce wraps. (Vegetarian-adaptable)

Each summer, when my basil finally starts taking over the garden, I know exactly what I’m making. My friend Spider introduced me to this recipe, explaining that it was the one dinner he made over and over because it was fast, easy, and always delicious. After making it myself, we completely understood - it has become one of our favorite weeknight meals, too.

This easy Basil Beef comes together in one skillet in just 20 minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Fresh basil, garlic, and a savory sauce make it taste fresh, vibrant, and so much more special than the effort suggests. I start the jasmine rice before cooking the meat, and everything is ready at the same time!

I’ve also tested this with plant-based ground meat, and it is totally delicious! A quick adaptable dinner no time flat.

Thai Basil Beef Ingredients

• Ground beef: Ground beef provides a rich, savory flavor and browns beautifully. Use your preferred fat percentage, keeping in mind that leaner beef may need a little oil. You can substitute any other type of ground meat or use plant-based meat! If using a vegan alternative, like Beyond Burger, reduce the salt slightly.
• Shallot and garlic cloves: For aromatic, savory flavor and subtle sweetness. Feel free to substitute onions for the shallot if preferred.
• Red chili flakes: Add a gentle kick of heat that balances the richness of the meat. Feel free to swap with Sambal Olek or Garlic Chili paste to taste.
• Salt and black pepper: Help to season the beef as it browns. Go lightly with the salt at first, as the soy sauce and fish sauce will add salty flavor later.
• Fish sauce: Adds salty, savory umami and incredible depth. If using plant-based meat, you can substitute with vegan fish sauce.
• Soy sauce: For another layer of salty, savory flavor. Use gluten-free liquid aminos if needed.
• Basil leaves: The star of the recipe! If you can find Thai basil, use it! It is the BEST. Thai basil has a slightly spicy, anise-like flavor that holds up especially well to the bold, savory sauce. I love growing it in my garden, but you can also find it at Asian supermarkets. Regular basil is still delicious.
• Chili crisp: For serving. A spoonful adds spicy, garlicky flavor and incredible crispy texture. I like Trader Joe’s brand, or learn how to make homemade chili crisp!

How to Make One-Pan Basil Beef

1. Cook the rice. Cook the jasmine rice (if using). It takes about 20 minutes, which gives you time to cook the beef and have everything ready at the same time.

2. Brown the meat. Bring a large skillet or wok to medium-high heat. Add oil if using lean meat, otherwise skip it. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula, then season with salt and pepper. Brown all sides. Drain the excess fat and set the meat aside.

3. Sauté the aromatics. Wipe out the skillet, add olive oil, and bring the skillet to medium heat. Sauté the shallot and garlic for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant. Add chili flakes and cook for 1 minute.

4. Finish. Transfer the beef back to the skillet of veggies. Add fish sauce and soy sauce and stir. Once heated through, add the basil and stir until wilted.

5. Serve. Taste, adding more salt or chili flakes if desired. Serve over bowls of rice and drizzle with chili crisp (or sriracha in a pinch!). A squeeze of fresh lime juice or other fresh herbs, like cilantro, are a nice addition.

Chef’s Tips

1. Achieve a good sear before stirring. Give the meat time to brown before stirring it too much. The caramelized edges add a ton of flavor.
2. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan. Use a large skillet to ensure the beef browns instead of steams. If there’s excess liquid or fat after cooking, drain it before continuing.
3. Go light on the salt initially. Both fish sauce and soy sauce are salty, so wait until the end to taste and add more to preference.
4. Add the basil at the end. Stir in the fresh basil just before serving and cook just until it wilts. This preserves its fresh flavor, aroma, and vibrant color.
5. Adjust the heat to taste. Keep the skillet mild and let everyone add chili crisp at the table, or increase the chili flakes for a spicier dish.
6. Add vegetables! For extra umph, you could add sliced onion and red bell peppers.

Serving Suggestions

My favorite way to serve Basil Beef is spooned over steamed jasmine rice (or rice noodles or ramen noodles) with a drizzle of chili crisp. Add sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, edamame, or shredded cabbage for an easy, complete meal. For a lighter alternative, tuck into crisp butter lettuce cups!

Here are some of my other favorite pairings:

• Coconut Rice
• Asian Cucumber Salad
• Coconut Creamed Spinach
• Stir-Fried Bok Choy
• Broccoli Stir Fry

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet until warmed through. You can also freeze Basil Beef for 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

More Asian Beef Recipes You Might Like

Thai Larb Salad

Korean Meatballs Recipe

Korean Bulgogi Beef Recipe

Vietnamese Beef Salad w/Green Papaya

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