If you’re craving a quick, comforting dinner that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a vibrant, satisfying dish where tender-crisp broccoli meets savory ground beef, all enveloped in a luscious, slightly sweet soy-ginger sauce that dances on your taste buds. Perfect for weeknights or any time you want a wholesome meal that tastes like it took hours, but really comes together in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each one playing a unique role in bringing harmony to this dish’s flavor, texture, and color. From the fresh crunch of broccoli to the rich earthiness of ground beef and the zing of ginger, every element counts.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Provides a smooth cooking base and adds a subtle fruity flavor.
- Broccoli florets (3-4 cups): Offers a vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch that balances the dish.
- Lean ground beef (1 pound): The hearty protein that forms the savory star of this stir-fry.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/2 cup): Delivers umami and saltiness without overpowering other flavors.
- Water (1 cup): Helps to adjust the sauce’s consistency so it perfectly coats every bite.
- Apple cider or rice vinegar (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right touch of acidity to brighten the sauce.
- Toasted sesame oil (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a rich, nutty aroma that elevates the dish’s depth.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup, packed): Balances savory and acidic notes with a natural sweetness.
- Cornstarch (3 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce to a glossy finish that clings to the ingredients beautifully.
- Fresh grated ginger (1 teaspoon): Infuses warmth and a touch of spice for a lively flavor punch.
- Minced garlic (4 cloves): Adds a fragrant, savory underpinning that is simply irresistible.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon or more): Optional, but recommended if you like a subtle kick in your stir-fry.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Sauce and Ingredients
Before the heat hits the pan, mix the sauce ingredients — soy sauce, water, vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, cornstarch, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes — in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Get the broccoli chopped and ready because the cooking moves fast once you start.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli to Tender-Crisp Perfection
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Toss in the broccoli and stir frequently for about 4-5 minutes. You want it bright green and just tender with a satisfying crunch. Once done, set it aside on a plate while you work on the beef.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the ground beef. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it browns. This should take roughly 5 minutes. If the beef releases too much fat, skim some off so the dish stays light but flavorful.
Step 4: Combine and Thicken the Sauce
Turn down the heat to medium, add the cooked broccoli back into the skillet, then pour in the prepared sauce. Stir everything gently but thoroughly, letting the sauce coat the beef and broccoli evenly. In just 1-3 minutes, the sauce will thicken into a glossy, flavorful glaze. Remove from heat and get ready to serve.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or sliced green onions over the top to add texture and a fresh bite. A few extra red pepper flakes also bring warmth and visual appeal if you like your dish with a bit more punch.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry is wonderful over steamed white or brown rice, but it also shines alongside quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Serving with a simple cucumber salad or pickled vegetables adds crunch and a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe into lettuce wraps or stuff it inside warm pita pockets. You can even toss it with cooked noodles or use it as a filling for savory crepes — endless possibilities to keep things exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it perfect for a quick lunch.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for longer storage by transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the broccoli may soften a bit upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat your stir-fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if necessary. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to maintain even warmth and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great and makes the dish a bit leaner. Just be aware that turkey cooks faster and can dry out more easily, so keep an eye on it.
What if I don’t have cornstarch? Can I use something else?
Yes, you can substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder or a mixture of all-purpose flour and water. Just remember to mix it well with the liquid before adding to avoid lumps.
Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?
You can use frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to prevent extra water from making the stir-fry soggy.
How spicy is this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe?
The recipe includes crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle heat that’s easy to adjust. You can skip or increase this depending on your spice tolerance.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the sauce and chopping the broccoli ahead of time makes the cooking process much faster. Just keep the raw beef refrigerated until ready to cook.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is one of those comforting, satisfying meals that you’ll want to make on repeat. It’s easy, packed with flavor, and hits the right balance between healthy and indulgent. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation!
Print
Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is a quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines tender-crisp broccoli with savory browned ground beef in a rich, slightly sweet soy-based sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it comes together in just 30 minutes and balances fresh vegetables with hearty protein for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3–4 cups broccoli florets
Meat
- 1 pound lean ground beef
Sauce
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/4 cup (packed) brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, vinegar, toasted sesame oil, brown sugar, cornstarch, grated ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes until fully combined. Set aside.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let it heat until the oil shimmers, indicating it’s ready for cooking.
- Cook the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring or tossing frequently, until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Brown the ground beef: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. If excess fat accumulates, spoon some out to reduce greasiness.
- Combine and thicken: Reduce the heat to medium. Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet with the beef. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and stir or toss everything together. Continue cooking for 1-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and fully coats the beef and broccoli. Remove the skillet from heat and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli florets for the best texture; frozen broccoli may yield a softer result.
- Toasting sesame oil intensifies its flavor; ensure to use toasted sesame oil as noted.
- If you prefer a less spicy dish, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
- For a lower-sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce as specified.
