Pad Kra Pao (Thai Basil Beef Stir Fry)

This Pad Kra Pao is a quick, flavorful stir-fry made with ground beef, aromatic herbs, and fresh Thai basil. Packed with garlic, lemongrass, and chilies, this dish delivers that classic Thai balance of salty, spicy, and savory flavors. Best served over steamed rice for an easy, satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.

View fullsize

Pad Kra Pao on a bed of rice

Ingredients

• 1 lb (1 pack) 80/20 ground beef

• 2 shallots, thinly sliced lengthwise

• 4–5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 stalk lemongrass, trimmed and lightly pounded

• 1 cup Thai basil leaves

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to spice preference)

• 1 tbsp light soy sauce

• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce

• 1 tbsp fish sauce

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil (or neutral cooking oil)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare aromatics: Mince garlic, slice shallots lengthwise, and lightly pound lemongrass with the back of a knife to release aroma.

2. Heat a shallow pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add olive oil.

3. Once hot, add shallots, garlic, lemongrass, and crushed red pepper. Sauté until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.

4. Add ground beef and cook thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and most of the fat has rendered — about 15–20 minutes.

5. Stir in light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, fish sauce, and oyster sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the beef is coated and sauce is slightly reduced.

6. Add Thai basil leaves and stir for 1 minute, just until wilted.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra soy sauce, fish sauce, or pepper if needed.

Serving

Serve hot over a bed of steamed jasmine rice for a classic Thai comfort meal. For an authentic touch, top with a crispy fried egg. 🍳