Spicy Firecracker Beef Recipe – Bold, Sweet & Fiery!
Love bold, spicy flavors? This Spicy Firecracker Beef is the perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and fiery heat, all in just 15 minutes! Caramelized ground beef coated in a rich, sriracha-based sauce, served over rice or noodles—quick, easy, and totally addictive.
Ingredients
For the Firecracker Beef:
- Ground beef – The star of the dish cooked until crispy and caramelized.
- Vegetable oil – Helps achieve that perfect sear.
- Garlic – Adds bold savory depth.
- Chili flakes – For heat! Adjust to your spice preference.
- Water – Makes the beef extra saucy.
For the Firecracker Sauce:
- Soy sauce – The umami-rich base of the sauce.
- Rice vinegar – Adds a tangy slightly sweet kick.
- Sriracha sauce – The fiery heat that gives this dish its signature punch!
- Brown sugar – Balances the heat with a rich sweetness.
To Serve (Optional but Highly Recommended!):
- Rice soba, or vermicelli noodles – The perfect base to soak up that sauce.
- Green onion – Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- Sesame seeds – A nutty toasty crunch.
- Diced cucumber julienned carrot, or red radish – For added crunch and balance.
- Extra sriracha sauce – If you’re feeling extra bold!
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, and brown sugar. Set aside.
Cook the Beef:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until no pink remains (about 2½ minutes).
- Stir in garlic and chili flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Caramelize the Beef:
- Pour in the Firecracker sauce and stir to coat the beef.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally at first, then more frequently as the sauce thickens and caramelizes.
Add the Water:
- Pour in 3 tablespoons of water and cook for another minute—this makes the beef saucier and extra delicious!
Serve & Enjoy:
- Spoon the beef over rice or noodles, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds, and drizzle with extra sriracha if you’re feeling brave.
- Add a side of crisp, fresh veggies for the ultimate balance of flavors!
Notes
- Let the beef caramelize! – Don’t stir too much at first—letting it sit helps develop those crispy, golden bits that add tons of flavor.
- Adjust the spice level. – If you’re spice-sensitive, start with half the chili flakes and sriracha, then add more to taste.
- Double the sauce! – If you love extra saucy beef, increase the Firecracker sauce by 50% for more goodness to drizzle over rice or noodles.
- Use different proteins. – This works great with ground chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a lighter option!