If you’re craving a quick, satisfying dinner that packs both flavor and nutrition, the Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This vibrant dish combines tender ground beef with crisp broccoli florets, all coated in a savory, slightly sweet sauce that brings everything together beautifully. It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that feels special but comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends with a fuss-free, wholesome dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and color to create a balanced and mouthwatering meal you’ll want to make again and again.
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef: The hearty protein base that’s full of rich flavor and cooks quickly.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch that complements the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a warm, fragrant kick that awakens the senses.
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced: Offers a zesty brightness to balance the richness.
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or low-sodium alternative): The salty, umami backbone of the sauce.
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce (optional): Adds a deep, slightly sweet complexity to the flavor profile.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (or neutral oil like vegetable oil): Infuses a subtle nutty aroma and helps with cooking.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the sauce perfectly for that glossy finish.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps steam the broccoli and loosen the sauce while cooking.
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional): Balances savory notes with a gentle sweetness.
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (optional, for garnish): Adds a final touch of texture and color.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by combining the soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, cornstarch, and honey in a small bowl. This mixture will become the glossy, flavorful sauce that ties the beef and broccoli together. Setting it aside now allows the cornstarch to dissolve evenly so it thickens nicely later.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This step builds a meaty, savory base that will soak up the sauce beautifully. If there’s excess fat, drain it to keep the dish balanced and not greasy.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Now, add the minced garlic and ginger to the beef. Stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes until they release their wonderful aromas. These aromatics layer in a fragrant freshness that lifts every bite—don’t rush this part because it’s where much of the magic begins.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3 to 5 minutes. The broccoli should be tender-crisp, meaning it still has a bit of bite but is cooked through. Pour a splash of water to help steam the broccoli if it needs a little extra moisture during this time.
Step 5: Add the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture. Stir everything continuously so the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the beef and broccoli with a beautiful sheen. This final step is what brings the dish’s flavors into perfect harmony.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe even further, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top just before serving. These little touches add freshness along with a delightful crunch that makes the dish even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs wonderfully with a simple bowl of steamed jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice to soak up the savory sauce. If you want to add some variety, a side of pickled vegetables or a light Asian cucumber salad offers a crisp, tangy contrast that complements the richness of the beef.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-friendly presentation, serve this stir fry in individual bowls topped with a fried egg. Or pile it high in lettuce cups for a fresh, handheld delight perfect for sharing at casual get-togethers. You can even toss the finished stir fry with noodles for a comforting twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This makes it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, too. Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwaving works fine, too—just cover the dish to prevent drying out and stir halfway through reheating for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and will work just as well in this stir fry. Keep in mind it may cook a little faster and have a milder flavor, so adjusting seasonings to taste can help maintain the dish’s bold profile.
Is oyster sauce necessary?
Oyster sauce adds depth and a slight sweetness that enriches the stir fry, but it’s optional for those with dietary restrictions or who prefer to avoid shellfish. You can increase the soy sauce slightly or try hoisin sauce as an alternative.
How do I keep the broccoli crisp?
Cooking the broccoli just until tender-crisp and adding a bit of water for steaming helps maintain texture. Avoid overcooking, which can turn broccoli mushy and dull the vibrant color that makes this dish so inviting.
What can I substitute for cornstarch?
If you’re out of cornstarch, arrowroot powder or potato starch works well as a thickener. Use the same amount to achieve a similarly luscious sauce consistency.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version of the Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe, swap the ground beef for firm tofu or tempeh. Use soy sauce and vegetarian oyster sauce (mushroom-based) to keep the umami depth without animal products.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about a well-made stir fry, and this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe hits every note—speed, flavor, and nutrition all wrapped into one delicious bowl. Give it a try for your next meal and watch it become a staple in your cooking rotation as it did in mine. You’re going to love how easy and rewarding it is to make!
Print
Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and flavorful Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Tender broccoli florets and savory ground beef are cooked together in a delicious soy-based sauce with garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an easy stir-fry recipe packed with protein and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
Sauce
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or low-sodium alternative)
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional)
Others
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (or neutral oil like vegetable oil)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, cornstarch, and honey or sugar if using. Stir well until the cornstarch dissolves and set aside.
- Cook the ground beef: Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if desired to reduce greasiness.
- Sauté aromatics: Add minced garlic and ginger to the browned beef. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and the aromatics soften, enhancing the flavor of the dish.
- Cook the broccoli: Add broccoli florets to the skillet and stir fry for 3 to 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet still crisp. Add a splash of water to create steam if needed to help cook the broccoli.
- Add the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture. Stir well to evenly coat all the ingredients, then cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the stir fry.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired, and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a low-sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce and omit oyster sauce.
- Optional honey or sugar balances the savory sauces, but you can omit for a less sweet version.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for variety.
- Drain excess fat after browning beef to make the dish leaner.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
