Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe rich, aromatic air in my kitchen is immediately charged with an enticing blend of spices and fresh herbs as I prepare to make One Pan Thai Basil Beef. In under 30 minutes, this quick weeknight meal transforms simple ingredients into a culinary adventure that rivals any takeout. Not only is it a breeze to whip up, but it also caters to those of us looking for healthier options, being gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo, keto, and Whole30 compliant. With tender beef and vibrant vegetables dancing together in a beautifully thick sauce, every bite promises a delicious escape into Thai cuisine. How can you resist a recipe that’s not only packed with flavor but also offers a fuss-free clean-up? Let’s dive into this delightful dish! Why is This Recipe a Must-Try? Simplicity at Its Finest: This One Pan Thai Basil Beef is incredibly easy to prepare, ensuring anyone can bring the flavors of Thailand to their dinner table without fuss. Bold, Vibrant Flavors: Each bite bursts with aromatic herbs and savory notes that elevate your weeknight meals, making every dinner feel like a special occasion. Diet-Friendly Delight: Whether you’re gluten-free, dairy-free, or following Keto and Whole30, this recipe fits your needs, making it a versatile choice for any dietary lifestyle. Quick Cooking Time: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy evenings when you crave something delicious without the hours in the kitchen. One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy a delicious meal with minimal clean-up, leaving you more time to relax after a satisfying dinner. It’s a crowd-pleaser, making it great for family gatherings or entertaining! For more delightful variations, be sure to check out my Ground Beef Stroganoff, which also makes for a quick and hearty weeknight meal! One Pan Thai Basil Beef Ingredients • Dive into the essential components of this vibrant dish! For the Beef • Flank Steak – A tender protein choice; skirt steak can also work in a pinch. • Avocado Oil – Ideal for sautéing; olive oil can be substituted if needed. • Arrowroot Flour – Acts as a thickening agent for the sauce; cornstarch can be an alternative. • Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; regular salt will suffice if preferred. • Black Pepper – Provides a touch of seasoning; ground black pepper works just as well. For the Vegetables • Red Bell Peppers – Adds vibrant color and sweetness; feel free to use any bell peppers or a stir-fry mix. • White Onion – Contributes subtle sweetness; yellow onion is a suitable substitute. • Garlic – Essential for aroma and flavor; garlic powder can be used in a bind. For the Sauce • Coconut Aminos – A naturally sweet sauce base for umami flavor; soy sauce is an option but isn’t Whole30 compliant. • Fish Sauce – Deepens umami richness; can be omitted if unavailable, but it enhances the dish significantly. For Garnishing • Thai Basil – Adds a fresh burst of flavor; regular basil can serve as an alternative. • Cilantro – A bright garnish that elevates the meal; omit if cilantro isn’t your favorite. • Green Onions – Provides additional flavor and freshness; regular onions can be used if on hand. This One Pan Thai Basil Beef is a sensational way to delight your taste buds with a quick, flavorful meal that everyone will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One Pan Thai Basil Beef Step 1: Prepare the Beef Thinly slice the flank steak into bite-sized strips and marinate it in a mixing bowl with avocado oil, arrowroot flour, kosher salt, and black pepper. Allow the beef to sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors while you gather the rest of your ingredients and heat your pan for the next steps. Step 2: Cook the Beef Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add a splash of avocado oil. Cook the marinated beef in batches for about 3 minutes on each side until browned but not fully cooked. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside, ensuring the pan remains hot for the next round of cooking. Step 3: Sauté Vegetables In the same pan, add the sliced red bell peppers and white onion, sautéing them for around 7 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to capture the savory essence left behind by the beef, creating a delicious foundation for your One Pan Thai Basil Beef. Step 4: Combine and Simmer Return the cooked beef to the pan and add minced garlic, coconut aminos, and fish sauce. Stir well to combine everything, making sure the beef is coated in the flavorful sauce. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and meld with the ingredients, infusing your dish with delightful aroma and flavor. Step 5: Finish with Basil Remove the pan from heat and gently stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves, allowing them to wilt slightly in the residual heat. This final touch will add a fragrant burst of flavor to your One Pan Thai Basil Beef, transforming it into a delicious meal bursting with authentic Thai aromas. Step 6: Serve Plate the One Pan Thai Basil Beef over your choice of jasmine rice or cauliflower rice. Garnish generously with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions to elevate the dish’s presentation and flavor. Your vibrant and tasty dinner is ready to be enjoyed! What to Serve with One Pan Thai Basil Beef Transform your meal into a vibrant Thai feast with these perfect pairings that enhance your dining experience. Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, balancing the bold flavors of the beef. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, this provides a light base that complements the rich sauce without overpowering it. Thai Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers drizzled with lime juice and a hint of sugar offer a refreshing contrast to the savory beef. Steamed Broccoli: Tender, steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch, pairing effortlessly with the bold Thai flavors. Spring Rolls: Filled with fresh vegetables and herbs, they make for a delightful, light appetizer to start your meal. Mango Sticky Rice: This sweet dessert brings a tropical sweetness that rounds out your meal nicely, making it a perfect conclusion. Each of these options will create a delightful spread that encourages the enjoyment of your One Pan Thai Basil Beef in every bite! One Pan Thai Basil Beef Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and customize your culinary experience, using these delightful twists to cater to your taste! Chicken/Tofu Swap: Substitute flank steak with chicken breast or cubed tofu for a lighter protein option. Both absorb flavors beautifully in the same savory sauce. Bold Spice Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for an extra hit of heat. This will awaken your taste buds and add an exciting layer of flavor. Vegetable Boost: Toss in some snap peas or broccoli for added crunch and nutrition. These veggies will not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a delightful texture contrast. Sweet Addition: Include a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. This will round out the flavors, balancing the savory elements perfectly. Asian Twist: Incorporate a splash of sesame oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an authentic Asian flair. This enhances the dish with nutty undertones and richness. Low-Carb Change: Serve the dish over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of rice for a low-carb option. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the dish without the extra carbs. Coconut Cream Variation: Stir in a little coconut cream at the end for a creamy richness. This will create a unique texture and add another delicious coconut flavor layer. For more delicious options, consider trying out my Slow Cooker Beef for a cozy meal or my Hearty Homemade Beef when you’re looking for something warm and comforting! Storage Tips for One Pan Thai Basil Beef Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the freshness of your One Pan Thai Basil Beef without losing flavors. Freezer: If you want to save your delicious meal for later, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: For the best results, reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the beef tender and prevent drying out. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish out at room temperature for longer than 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality. Expert Tips for One Pan Thai Basil Beef Perfect Slicing: Freeze the flank steak for about 20 minutes before slicing. It makes cutting the beef into thin strips much easier and results in a better texture. Avoid Overcrowding: When cooking the beef, work in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure each piece browns evenly, creating that delicious seared flavor. Flavorful Marination: Let the marinated beef sit for at least 10 minutes. This time allows the garlic and spices to penetrate deeply, making your One Pan Thai Basil Beef even more flavorful. Mind the Heat: Keep the heat at medium-high when sautéing the vegetables. This ensures they cook through while maintaining a slight crunch for added texture. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Whenever possible, use fresh Thai basil and garlic. It significantly enhances the overall flavor profile of your dish, making it truly authentic and aromatic. Make Ahead Options These One Pan Thai Basil Beef is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dinner with minimal fuss! You can slice the flank steak and marinate it in avocado oil, arrowroot flour, kosher salt, and black pepper up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables (red bell peppers and onions) and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to cook, heat the pan and sauté the prepped ingredients, then follow the remaining steps to create your savory dish. This way, you’ll still achieve a fresh, vibrant meal without the last-minute rush! One Pan Thai Basil Beef Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best flank steak? Absolutely! When selecting flank steak, look for cuts that are bright red with minimal dark spots. The meat should feel firm but slightly flexible. Avoid any packages that show signs of excessive moisture or are close to their expiration date. What is the best way to store leftover One Pan Thai Basil Beef? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing. For best flavor retention, reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the beef from drying out. Can I freeze One Pan Thai Basil Beef? Definitely! You can freeze portions of this dish for up to 3 months. To do so, let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or airtight containers, removing as much air as possible. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. What if my beef isn’t browning properly in the pan? Very good question! If your beef isn’t browning, you may be overcrowding the pan, which lowers the temperature and causes steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches, giving each piece enough space. Preheating your pan until it’s hot before adding the meat also helps to achieve that desirable golden crust. Is there a substitute for coconut aminos in this recipe? If you can’t find coconut aminos, soy sauce is the most common alternative, but keep in mind it’s not Whole30 compliant. A blend of reduced sodium soy sauce and a dash of honey can mimic the sweetness of coconut aminos if you’re looking for a similar flavor profile while not on any strict dietary guidelines. Can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions? Absolutely! If you’re concerned about allergens, ensure your coconut aminos are soy-free and consider replacing the fish sauce with a homemade fish sauce substitute made from tamari or extra coconut aminos for a similar umami flavor. This dish is designed to cater to gluten-free, dairy-free, Paleo, Keto, and Whole30 diets, so feel free to adjust ingredients as needed to fit your needs. One Pan Thai Basil Beef: Quick Flavorful Dinner Delight One Pan Thai Basil Beef is a quick, flavorful dinner that combines tender beef with vibrant vegetables in a rich sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: BeefCuisine: ThaiCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Beef1 pound Flank Steak Skirt steak can be used as an alternative.2 tablespoons Avocado Oil Olive oil can be substituted.1 tablespoon Arrowroot Flour Cornstarch can be an alternative.1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Regular salt is sufficient if preferred.1 teaspoon Black Pepper Ground black pepper works just as well.For the Vegetables1 cup Red Bell Peppers Any bell peppers or stir-fry mix can be used.1 large White Onion Yellow onion is a suitable substitute.3 cloves Garlic Garlic powder can be used in a bind.For the Sauce1/4 cup Coconut Aminos Soy sauce can be an option but isn't Whole30 compliant.1 tablespoon Fish Sauce Can be omitted if unavailable.For Garnishing1/2 cup Thai Basil Regular basil can serve as an alternative.1/4 cup Cilantro Omit if cilantro isn't your favorite.2 stalks Green Onions Regular onions can be used if on hand. Equipment Large frying pan Method Step-by-Step Instructions for One Pan Thai Basil BeefThinly slice the flank steak into bite-sized strips and marinate it in a mixing bowl with avocado oil, arrowroot flour, kosher salt, and black pepper. Allow the beef to sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors while you gather the rest of your ingredients and heat your pan for the next steps.Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add a splash of avocado oil. Cook the marinated beef in batches for about 3 minutes on each side until browned but not fully cooked. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside, ensuring the pan remains hot for the next round of cooking.In the same pan, add the sliced red bell peppers and white onion, sautéing them for around 7 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.Return the cooked beef to the pan and add minced garlic, coconut aminos, and fish sauce. Stir well to combine everything, letting it simmer for about 3 minutes.Remove the pan from heat and gently stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves, allowing them to wilt slightly.Plate the One Pan Thai Basil Beef over jasmine rice or cauliflower rice. Garnish generously with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 100mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg NotesFor optimal results, freeze the flank steak for about 20 minutes before slicing. Avoid overcrowding the pan while cooking the beef to ensure even browning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
