If you’re craving a flavorful, wholesome, and quick dish to brighten your dinner table, this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is a total game changer. It’s a wonderful balance of tender ground beef and crisp-tender broccoli, all coated in a luscious, garlicky sauce that’s sweetened just right with honey. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and speed, making it perfect for busy weeknights but delicious enough to impress any guest. Plus, this is a meal that feels satisfying and nourishing without any fuss, giving you a wonderful combination of savory, sweet, and umami notes in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet they work together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each plays a vital role, from the savory depth of soy sauce to the refreshing crunch of broccoli, making the dish bright and balanced.
- ½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari): provides a rich, salty, and umami-packed base for the stir fry sauce.
- 1 tablespoon honey: adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the savory soy.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): gives a punch of fragrant, aromatic flavor that makes the dish pop.
- 1 1-inch piece fresh ginger (peeled and grated): introduces a vibrant, warm zestiness that lifts the whole stir fry.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: thickens the sauce, creating a beautiful glaze that clings to every piece.
- ½ tablespoon sesame oil: adds a toasty, nutty richness to the beef as it cooks.
- 1 pound ground beef (93% lean): tender and juicy, providing hearty protein and substance.
- ½ medium yellow onion (chopped): adds sweetness and a bit of texture to complement the beef.
- 1 large head broccoli (cut into florets and blanched): delivers fresh, crisp bites and vibrant green color.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: sprinkle on top for an extra layer of nutty flavor and crunch.
- 3 medium scallions (sliced on the bias): brighten the dish with a mild oniony bite and freshness.
- Cooked rice (or cauliflower rice, for serving – optional): serves as a soft, comforting base to absorb the sauce and make it a fuller meal.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together the Sauce
Begin by mixing the reduced sodium soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, and cornstarch in a small bowl. This combination forms the heart of your stir fry, blending sweetness, saltiness, and a slight tang while the cornstarch ensures a saucy, glossy finish that’s easy to coat every morsel of beef and broccoli with flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions
Heat the sesame oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef and chopped onion. Stir occasionally, letting the meat brown and the onions soften until the beef is nearly cooked through, which usually takes around five minutes. The sesame oil imparts a toasty flavor that elevates every bite here.
Step 3: Add the Sauce and Broccoli
Now pour in your reserved sauce mixture, stirring it into the beef and onions. Cook this for about a minute so the sauce thickens and starts to cling to your ingredients. Then add the blanched broccoli florets, cooking everything together just another minute. This quick step ensures the broccoli stays tender-crisp, contributing a fresh crunch to the dish.
Step 4: Plate It Up
If you’re using rice or cauliflower rice, spread it evenly on each plate or shallow bowl first. Then spoon the savory beef and broccoli mixture on top, letting the sauce drizzle beautifully over the base. This layering creates a harmonious balance between the saucy topping and the fluffy rice underneath.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions on top to add that extra bit of texture and a burst of brightness. These little finishing touches turn a simple stir fry into a restaurant-quality meal that looks as stunning as it tastes.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes in this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe. Toasted sesame seeds add a pleasing crunch and a nutty aroma, while scallions bring a fresh sharpness that cuts through the rich sauce. A light drizzle of chili oil or a squeeze of lime could be lovely extras if you want a slight kick or tang.
Side Dishes
This stir fry is fantastic on its own, but if you want to expand the meal, consider serving with steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even fried rice with a few scrambled eggs mixed in. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some pickled vegetables would add a refreshing contrast that balances the hearty beef and broccoli perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, you can serve this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe in lettuce cups or inside baked sweet potatoes to make it a hand-held meal. Alternatively, try layering it over noodles or spiralized zucchini to change the texture and vibe of the dish, making it even more versatile for your weekly dinner rotation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld wonderfully overnight, making it even tastier the next day. Just be sure to store the rice and stir fry together to retain the sauce’s moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe if you want to prep in advance. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible, and it will keep well for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the stir fry gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. If it seems a bit dry, splash some water or extra soy sauce to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short bursts, but stirring in between helps keep everything evenly heated without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary to ensure it’s fully cooked but still juicy.
Do I have to blanch the broccoli?
Blanching helps keep the broccoli’s bright green color and crisp-tender texture, but if you’re short on time, you can simply add raw broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender to your liking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Simply swap the soy sauce for gluten-free tamari, and you’re good to go. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, like sesame oil and cornstarch, don’t have gluten-containing additives.
How spicy is this stir fry?
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe isn’t spicy by itself, making it approachable for all palates. However, you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes, chili paste, or a drizzle of sriracha if you love a little heat.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix the sauce in advance and refrigerate it for a day or two. You can also chop the vegetables or blanch the broccoli ahead to streamline cooking when you’re ready to assemble the meal.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe has become one of my absolute go-to dinners because it never disappoints—fast, flavorful, and just downright comforting. Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner cook, or just looking to add a delicious, healthy dish to your repertoire, this recipe is a keeper. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a favorite in your household too!
Print
Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish combining lean ground beef with fresh broccoli in a savory sauce made from soy, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey. It’s perfect for a fast weeknight dinner and can be served over rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The toasted sesame seeds and scallions add a fresh, crunchy finish to this hearty and satisfying stir fry.
Ingredients
Sauce
- ½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 1-inch piece fresh ginger (peeled and grated)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Stir Fry
- ½ tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 pound ground beef (93% lean)
- ½ medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 1 large head broccoli (cut into florets and blanched)
Toppings and Serving
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 3 medium scallions (sliced on the bias)
- Cooked rice or cauliflower rice (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch until smooth and well combined. Set this sauce mixture aside.
- Cook the beef and onion: Heat the sesame oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is almost cooked through and the onion is soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the sauce and broccoli: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the beef and onion. Stir well to incorporate and cook for 1 minute to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Then add the blanched broccoli florets and cook for an additional 1 minute until the broccoli is heated through but still crisp.
- Serve: Divide the stir fry mixture evenly among 4 plates or shallow bowls. If desired, spoon cooked rice or cauliflower rice onto each plate before adding the stir fry.
- Garnish: Top each serving with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions to add flavor and texture. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Blanching the broccoli ahead helps maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture when stir-fried.
- Use reduced sodium soy sauce to control salt content or substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option.
- To make this dish lower in carbs, serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein.
- Adjust the honey quantity to taste, especially if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
