This Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender-crisp broccoli, savory ground beef, and a slightly sweet umami-packed sauce, this dish is both delicious and easy to make in just 30 minutes. Serve it over fluffy rice for a complete meal the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleaser with familiar flavors.
- Customizable – Swap the beef for chicken, turkey, or tofu.
- One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup, more convenience.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or wok – Allows for even cooking.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – For slicing vegetables and dicing onions.
- Mixing bowls – To prepare the sauce and cornstarch slurry.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures precise ingredient measurements.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring and combining ingredients.
Preparation Tips
- Cut vegetables evenly – This ensures even cooking and a great texture.
- Use fresh garlic and ginger – For the best flavor.
- Pat dry the broccoli – Prevents excess moisture from affecting the stir-fry.
- Have all ingredients ready – Stir-frying happens quickly, so prepare everything in advance.
Ingredients (4 Servings)
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable/olive oil)
- 3 cups broccoli florets, washed and patted dry
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup beef broth
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
For Serving:
- 3 cups cooked rice (any kind)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sauce
- In a small container, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until dissolved. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Mix well and set aside.
2. Cook the Broccoli
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add the broccoli and toss to coat. Cook for 4-5 minutes until slightly softened.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Beef
- Season the ground beef with salt and white pepper.
- In the same skillet, cook the beef with diced onions over medium-high heat until browned.
- Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add the red bell peppers and cook for 1 more minute.
4. Add the Sauce
- Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and bring to a boil.
- Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Shake the cornstarch mixture again and slowly stir it into the sauce.
- Allow it to thicken to your desired consistency.
5. Combine and Serve
- Reduce heat to low and return the broccoli to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped peanuts if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry pairs well with a variety of side dishes to create a balanced and complete meal. Here are some excellent options:
Rice and Noodle Pairings
- Steamed Jasmine Rice – A classic option that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
- Brown Rice – A healthier alternative with a nutty flavor.
- Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb option that still provides a great texture.
- Garlic Noodles – Adds extra flavor and complements the stir-fry well.
Vegetable-Based Sides
- Asian Slaw – A refreshing, crunchy salad with a tangy dressing.
- Stir-Fried Green Beans – Lightly seasoned with garlic and soy sauce.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – A crispy and savory side to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
Appetizers and Small Bites
- Egg Drop Soup – A light and comforting soup to start the meal.
- Spring Rolls – Crispy or fresh, they add variety and texture.
- Dumplings – Serve with soy sauce or a spicy dipping sauce for an extra treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe
Overcooking the Broccoli
Broccoli should be tender but still crisp. Cooking it too long makes it mushy and less vibrant in color. To prevent this, cook for just a few minutes and remove it from the pan before continuing with the recipe.
Not Thickening the Sauce Properly
Cornstarch needs to be mixed with cold water before adding it to the sauce. If added directly, it can form lumps. Stir well before pouring it in and allow the sauce to simmer until it reaches the desired thickness.
Skipping the Searing Step for the Beef
Browning the ground beef adds depth of flavor. Cook it on medium-high heat and let it sear slightly before breaking it apart for the best taste.
Using Too Much Sugar
Balancing sweetness is important. Start with the lower amount of honey and adjust as needed after tasting. If the sauce becomes too sweet, add a little more soy sauce or a splash of rice vinegar for contrast.
Adding Too Many Vegetables at Once
While extra vegetables can be a great addition, adding too many at once can overcrowd the pan and cause them to steam instead of stir-fry. If incorporating additional vegetables, cook them in batches for the best texture.
Not Draining Excess Grease from the Beef
If using a higher-fat ground beef, excess grease can make the dish overly oily. Drain it after browning the meat for a cleaner, more balanced flavor.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the flavor significantly.
- Adjust the sauce to taste – If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey and brown sugar slightly.
- Make it spicier – Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for extra heat.
- For a low-carb version – Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Enhance the umami – A splash of fish sauce or a bit of oyster sauce can deepen the flavor.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Allow the stir-fry to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- For best results, store the rice and stir-fry separately.
Reheating
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw it first and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture. Frozen broccoli tends to cook faster, so reduce the cooking time slightly.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, both work well, though ground turkey and chicken have a milder flavor. Adding a little extra sesame oil or soy sauce can help enhance the taste.
What is the best way to make perfect rice for serving?
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil. For extra flavor, add 2 chicken bouillon cubes.
- Add 1 cup of long-grain white rice and let the liquid return to a boil.
- Cover tightly and reduce heat to a gentle simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it stand, covered, for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes. Store individual portions in meal prep containers with rice for easy reheatable lunches.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is a fast, easy, and flavor-packed meal perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and a rich, savory sauce, it is guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table. Serve it over rice, customize it with your favorite vegetables, and enjoy a satisfying homemade meal in just 30 minutes.
Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients
Stir-Fry:
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil or vegetable/olive oil
- 3 cups broccoli florets washed and patted dry
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- Salt and white pepper to taste
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
For Serving:
- 3 cups cooked rice any kind
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce
- In a small container, combine the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Shake or stir well and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, mix the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon honey (adjust later if needed), garlic, ground ginger, and sesame oil. Set aside.
Cook the Broccoli
- Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the broccoli and toss to coat.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Beef
- Season the ground beef with salt and white pepper if desired.
- In the same skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the beef with the diced onions until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for 1 minute.
Add the Sauce
- Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and bring to a boil. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Shake the cornstarch mixture, then slowly stir it into the sauce. Let it bubble gently until the desired thickness is reached.
Combine and Serve
- Reduce heat to low, return the broccoli to the pan, and stir to combine.
- Serve hot over cooked rice. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped peanuts if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
Vegetable Additions: Try adding julienned carrots, water chestnuts, celery, or kale.
Toppings: Green onions, sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, crunchy chow mein noodles, or sliced almonds make great garnishes.
Lower Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and/or reduced-sodium broth.
Frozen Broccoli: Can be used—just thaw, pat dry, and proceed as directed.
How to Make Perfect Rice:
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil. (For extra flavor, add 2 chicken bouillon cubes.)
Add 1 cup of long-grain white rice and let the liquid return to a boil.
Cover tightly and reduce heat to a gentle simmer for 15 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it stand, covered, for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
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