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If you’re craving a quick, comforting meal that bursts with savory flavor and vibrant greens, this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect balance of tender ground beef and crisp broccoli florets, all coated in a luscious, savory sauce that comes together in just 25 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or simply want something hearty and healthy, this stir fry hits every note with ease and keeps your taste buds dancing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients. Each component plays an important role, from the rich beef that adds depth and protein to the bright broccoli that brings a satisfying crunch and nutrition. The combination of aromatics and sauces ties everything together in a harmonious burst of flavor.
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose fresh, lean beef for a juicy texture without excess grease.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen work well, providing vibrant color and a crisp bite.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that wakes up the dish.
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced: Brings a warm, zesty undertone balancing the rich beef.
- 3 tbsp soy sauce: The salty backbone of the sauce that boosts umami.
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce (optional): Adds an extra layer of savory sweetness and complexity.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (or neutral oil): Imparts a subtle nutty aroma and helps cook the beef evenly.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the sauce so it clings beautifully to each bite.
- 1/4 cup water: Creates the perfect consistency for the sauce and helps steam the broccoli.
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional): Balances savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (optional): Fresh garnishes that add texture and sparkle at the end.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by whisking together soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, cornstarch, and honey (if you’re using it). This sauce is the heart of the dish, providing that irresistible glaze that ties all the ingredients together. Setting it aside means it’s ready to enrich the stir fry at just the right moment.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add your ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it sizzles. This step not only develops savory depth but also creates a deliciously textured base. Remember to drain excess fat if your beef is on the fattier side to keep the final dish from feeling greasy.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Into the beef, add minced garlic and ginger, stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until they release their fragrant, mouthwatering aroma. These small but mighty additions elevate the entire dish with warm, lively notes.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
Add your broccoli florets straight into the skillet. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender-crisp. If it looks like it’s drying out, splash in a little water to help steam and soften the stalks just right without losing their bright green color.
Step 5: Add the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli, stirring quickly to coat everything. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes as the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, clinging to each bite with that perfect balance of savory, sweet, and salty.
Step 6: Serve
Once your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is beautifully sauced and steaming hot, it’s time to plate it up and enjoy. The next section will share fantastic ways to present and enjoy this delightful dish.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle the stir fry with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a fresh crunch and a lovely pop of color. These simple garnishes transform the dish from everyday to restaurant-worthy, adding texture and brightness.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice to soak up every bit of that savory sauce. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or even alongside fresh Asian-style noodles to make the meal heartier.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the stir fry inside crispy lettuce cups for a refreshing twist. You can also stuff it into warm pita pockets or wrap it in rice paper rolls with sliced cucumbers and carrots for a fun handheld meal. The possibilities are endless when you want to mix things up!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen wonderfully overnight, making next-day lunches just as enjoyable as the first serving.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe, place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that broccoli may soften slightly after freezing, but the dish will still taste fantastic when reheated.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickened too much. Stir frequently to ensure it warms evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! Snap peas, bell peppers, or bok choy make excellent substitutes or additions. Just adjust cooking times so the veggies stay crisp and vibrant.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace ground beef with firm tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative, and use vegetarian oyster sauce or more soy sauce to maintain that rich umami flavor.
How spicy is this stir fry?
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add chili flakes or a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick if you love heat.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prep ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the stir fry fresh to keep the broccoli crisp and the beef juicy. Leftovers reheat well, too!
What kind of soy sauce should I use?
Regular soy sauce works great, but for a healthier version, low-sodium soy sauce is the way to go. It reduces saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is such a delightful weeknight warrior, offering incredible flavor with minimal fuss. Once you give this recipe a go, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen—warm, satisfying, and packed with wholesome ingredients. So grab your skillet and get cooking; your next delicious meal is just 25 minutes away!
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Print
Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 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 combining tender broccoli florets with savory ground beef in a rich soy and oyster sauce. This 25-minute recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and serves 4, offering a balanced mix of protein and vegetables with a hint of ginger and garlic.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Aromatics
- 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)
Cooking Oil and Garnish
- 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, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, cornstarch, and honey or sugar if using. Set the mixture aside to allow the cornstarch to dissolve.
- Cook the ground beef: Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, drain excess fat if needed to reduce greasiness.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant and aromatic, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Cook the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the beef mixture. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp. If necessary, sprinkle a little water into the pan and cover briefly to steam the broccoli, ensuring it remains vibrant and slightly crunchy.
- Add the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens into a glossy coating that binds the flavors together.
- Serve: Remove the stir fry from heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce and omit or reduce oyster sauce.
- Honey or sugar is optional but adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory sauce.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer crispier broccoli, add it later and cook for a shorter time.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
