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Thai Basil Beef sizzles with the heady aroma of fresh Thai basil, tender strips of beef and a vibrant medley of Asian seasonings that transport your taste buds straight to Bangkok’s bustling street markets. Each bite delivers savory depth balanced by bright, peppery herb notes that linger on the palate. This dish marries inspiration from Beef Pad Thai Recipe and Lemongrass Beef, while echoing flavors you love in Thai Beef Salad Recipe and Asian Beef Bowl classics. Whether you’re craving Thai Beef Curry warmth or a quick Thai Basil Chicken Recipe twist, this recipe has you covered with real-food goodness and crave-worthy punch.
Why You’ll Love This Thai Basil Beef
- Explodes with fresh Thai basil and garlic for an aromatic flavor boost
- Uses lean ground beef for protein-packed satisfaction without heaviness
- Comes together in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights
- Customizable spice level to suit mild or fiery Thai tastes
- Pairs beautifully with Thai Basil Pesto-infused sides or a crisp Thai Steak Salad
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | Thai-Inspired Healthy |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 15 minutes |
| Total Time: | 25 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | Warm |
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef – high-protein foundation for thai ground beef recipes
- 2 Tbsp coconut oil – rich, healthy fat for stir-frying
- 5 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic punch native to garlic traditions
- 1 red chili, thinly sliced – adjustable heat for personalized spice
- 2 Tbsp fish sauce – authentic umami from Southeast Asia
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce – depth and saltiness without gluten (tamari for GF)
- 1 Tbsp oyster sauce – sweet-savory layering reminiscent of Asian Beef Bowl sauces
- 1 tsp brown sugar – balances savory notes with gentle sweetness
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves – peppery, fragrant, key to Thai Basil Beef
- 1 lime, juiced – bright acidity to lift flavors
Thai Basil Beef
Ingredients
Method
- Gather and measure all ingredients. Rinse Thai basil leaves, mince garlic, and slice red chili.
- Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until no pink remains (about 4–5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and sliced chili. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and brown sugar. Stir to combine and coat evenly.
- Remove from heat. Fold in Thai basil and lime juice until basil is wilted.
- Let rest 1 minute before serving. Enjoy warm over rice or in lettuce cups.
Notes
How to Make the Thai Basil Beef
Follow these steps to build layers of savory-sweet flavor, finishing with a burst of fresh herbs.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Gather and measure all ingredients, rinse basil leaves, mince garlic, and slice chili.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Warm coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add ground beef and cook, breaking into pieces, until no pink remains (4–5 minutes).
Step 4: Aromatics In
Stir in garlic and chili; sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 5: Sauce It Up
Pour in fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and brown sugar; stir to coat evenly.
Step 6: Basil Finale
Remove pan from heat, fold in basil leaves and lime juice until basil wilts.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the mixture rest for a minute to meld flavors, then transfer to a serving dish.
Pro Tips for Making the Thai Basil Beef
- Use room-temperature beef for faster, more even browning.
- Swap Thai basil for holy basil if you like clove-like undertones.
- Add sliced bell peppers or sugar snap peas for extra crunch.
- Toast garlic in oil briefly before adding beef for deeper roasted notes.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of coconut water for a tropical hint.
How to Serve Thai Basil Beef
These serving ideas will elevate your Thai Basil Beef to next-level deliciousness:
- Over steamed jasmine rice for classic comfort
- Alongside a refreshing Thai Beef Salad Recipe
- Wrapped in lettuce cups with shredded carrots and cucumber
- With a drizzle of homemade Thai Basil Pesto
- As a protein topping for Asian Beef Bowl bowls
- Paired with a crisp cucumber-and-mango salad
- Served with Thai Basil Pork sliders for contrast
- Alongside cauliflower rice for low-carb indulgence
- Garnished with crushed peanuts and lime wedges
- With a side of Lemongrass Beef skewers for a surf-and-turf vibe
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Cool completely before refrigerating
• Store in an airtight container up to 3 days
• Keep basil separate to preserve freshness
• Re-crisp in a hot skillet before serving
Freezing
• Portion into freezer-safe bags
• Squeeze out excess air
• Freeze up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating
Reheating
• Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water
• Cover to steam and maintain moisture
• Avoid microwave overcooking to preserve texture
• Add fresh basil after reheating for vibrancy
FAQs
What are the health benefits of ground beef and basil?
Ground beef provides high-quality protein and iron, while Thai basil delivers antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds to support wellness.
Can I substitute soy sauce?
Yes—tamari or coconut aminos work as gluten-free options, and low-sodium versions keep salt in check.
How can I add flavor without extra calories?
Boost taste with minced ginger, garlic, fresh herbs, and zesty citrus juice instead of sugar or oil-heavy sauces.
Can I meal prep Thai Basil Beef?
Absolutely—cook in advance, cool quickly, and portion into containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Let the intoxicating aroma of Thai basil and garlic draw you into this quick yet restaurant-quality dish. With simple ingredients and minimal fuss, it’s perfect for health-minded cooks craving bold flavor. Experiment with add-ins like bell peppers or snap peas to make it your own. Embrace the vibrant tastes of Thailand in every mouthful and watch this recipe become a weekly staple.
