If you’re craving a delicious and nourishing dinner that comes together in a flash, this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, savory ground beef with vibrant, crisp broccoli all coated in a sweet-and-salty sauce that will have your taste buds singing. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or looking for a comforting meal packed with flavor and texture, this recipe balances simplicity and excitement perfectly. You’ll love how the ground beef absorbs the garlicky, gingery sauce, and the broccoli adds a fresh crunch that feels downright irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and familiar, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the bold, balanced taste and delightful textures of this stir-fry. Using fresh broccoli, lean ground beef, and a well-crafted sauce makes this dish both wholesome and satisfying.
- 1 tablespoon oil: A neutral oil to help you sauté the broccoli and cook the beef evenly without sticking.
- 3-4 cups broccoli florets: Crisp and vibrant, broccoli provides a hearty vegetable component packed with nutrients and color.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The protein star, it offers rich flavor and a satisfying bite without excess fat.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (3-4 cloves): Adds aromatic depth and a savory punch that makes the dish irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger: Brings a subtle, warm spiciness that elevates the sauce’s complexity.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: The salty, umami base that seasons everything perfectly.
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Offers just the right touch of sweetness to balance the soy sauce’s saltiness.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken stock: Adds moisture and rich savoriness without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce so it clings beautifully to the beef and broccoli.
- 1/2 teaspoon rice vinegar: A dash of acidity that brightens up the dish and adds freshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Finishing oil that imparts a nutty aroma and rounds out the flavor profile.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Begin by whisking together soy sauce, brown sugar, chicken stock, cornstarch, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil in a small bowl. Setting this mix aside allows the flavors to meld and makes the cooking flow smoothly. This sauce unlocks the signature sweet-savory balance that defines a great stir-fry.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Heat one tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat and toss in the broccoli florets. Sauté for just a minute to start softening them, then splash in three tablespoons of water, cover, and steam for 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is delightfully crisp-tender. This method keeps the vibrant green color and satisfying crunch intact. Once ready, transfer the broccoli to a plate to hold for later.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
In the same pan, add the ground beef and cook over medium-high heat until fully browned and no pink remains, about 5-6 minutes. As you go, break the beef into small pieces using your spatula so it cooks evenly and develops a nice savory crust. This step is key to building rich flavor and texture that complements the veggies.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Ginger, Then Sauce
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking everything together for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant and aromatic. Pour in the previously mixed sauce and stir well, letting it bubble and thicken for about a minute. This step coats every morsel of beef in the luscious sauce that makes this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe so satisfying.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the broccoli to the pan, tossing gently to coat each floret in the sauce alongside the beef. Cook for just a minute more to marry the flavors perfectly. Then you’re ready to serve a steaming, flavor-packed meal that looks as good as it tastes!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a handful of thinly sliced green onions adds that final flourish of texture and color. These simple touches instantly elevate the presentation and add a bit more savory crunch with every bite, making the dish feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up every drop of the flavorful sauce. For a lighter option, try cauliflower rice or even a side of crunchy Asian slaw. These additions round out the meal while keeping it balanced and enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe in crispy lettuce cups for a fresh and fun handheld meal. Alternatively, pile it over warm noodles or quinoa to switch up the texture. You could even stuff it inside a whole-wheat pita or flatbread with a drizzle of spicy mayo for a fusion-inspired twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, simply cool leftovers to room temperature and store them in an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to keep things longer, freezing this stir-fry works well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, pressing out excess air. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without significant loss of flavor or texture, ideal for meal prep or busy weeks.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm the stir-fry gently over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth helps loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much. Microwave reheating also works—just cover and heat in short bursts to preserve texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking time to prevent it from drying out, and you might want to adjust the seasoning since turkey is milder than beef.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to adapt for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms all make fantastic additions. Just add them during the broccoli cooking step so they get tender-crisp and complement the beef nicely.
How spicy is this stir-fry?
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is mild and more on the sweet-savory side. You can easily add a kick by including red pepper flakes, chopped fresh chili, or a splash of chili sauce when adding the sauce.
What’s the best way to get a good sauce consistency?
The cornstarch in the sauce is key for thickening. Make sure to dissolve it fully into the liquid before adding it to the pan. Cooking the sauce on medium-high heat while stirring will help it thicken quickly and cling beautifully to each ingredient.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this vibrant, flavorful Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe in your culinary repertoire, you’re all set to pull together a quick, comforting, and impressive meal any night of the week. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a perfect balance of protein and vegetables with a sauce that feels like a warm hug. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This quick and flavorful Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry combines tender broccoli florets with savory ground beef in a rich garlic-ginger soy sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that balances protein and vegetables with a deliciously sweet and tangy sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 3–4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (3–4 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, chicken stock, cornstarch, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil. Stir well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Set aside.
- Cook the Broccoli: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat in a skillet or wok. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in 3 tablespoons of water, cover with a lid, and steam the broccoli for 2 to 3 minutes until they become crisp-tender. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside on a plate.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In the same pan, add the ground beef. Cook over medium-high heat for 5 to 6 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until it is no longer pink and fully cooked through.
- Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the beef. Stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine with Sauce and Broccoli: Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with the beef mixture. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef evenly. Return the cooked broccoli to the pan and toss everything together until evenly coated with sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful ground beef and broccoli stir-fry!
Notes
- Use lean ground beef (at least 90% lean) to reduce excess grease.
- You can substitute chicken or turkey for ground beef if desired.
- For a gluten-free option, replace soy sauce with tamari.
- Add red pepper flakes for some heat if you like a spicy touch.
- Serve with steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
- Make sure to stir the sauce well to dissolve the cornstarch and prevent lumps.
