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If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant, the Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is a total winner. Packed with tender, savory ground beef and crisp, bright green broccoli, this recipe brings together bold flavors from garlic, ginger, and honey-sweetened soy sauce in no time at all. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without the fuss, making it a go-to meal when you want something quick, nourishing, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a frying pan with cooked ground meat mixed with sautéed onions and bright green broccoli florets. The meat forms a textured brown layer throughout, with chunks of soft, slightly translucent onions scattered evenly. The broccoli pieces have vibrant green tops with thicker, lighter green stems, sitting on and partially mixed into the meat and onions. The pan handle is visible at the bottom center, resting on a white marbled surface. Small bowls with green onion slices and white sesame seeds are blurred in the foreground. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These straightforward ingredients are the heart and soul of this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s the vibrant freshness of ginger, the rich savoriness of soy sauce, or the satisfying texture of lean ground beef, creating a perfect balance of flavor and look on your plate.

Reduced sodium soy sauce (½ cup): Adds deep umami with less salt for balanced flavor.
Honey (1 tablespoon): Brings just the right touch of sweetness to complement the savory elements.
Garlic, minced (4 cloves): Infuses a fragrant, punchy aroma that wakes up the dish.
Fresh ginger, peeled and grated (1-inch piece): Adds a warm, zesty brightness.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Helps thicken the sauce to cling beautifully to beef and broccoli.
Sesame oil (½ tablespoon): Introduces a subtle nutty undertone enhancing aroma and taste.
Ground beef, 93% lean (1 pound): Provides hearty protein with lean richness perfect for stir-fry.
Yellow onion, chopped (½ medium): Adds a mild sweetness and slight crunch as it cooks.
Broccoli florets (1 large head, blanched): Offers fresh green color and crisp texture that contrasts the beef.
Toasted sesame seeds (1 tablespoon): Give a delicate crunch and nutty finish.
Scallions, sliced on the bias (3 medium): Deliver a bright, fresh garnish that lifts the whole dish.
Cooked rice or cauliflower rice (optional): A simple, comforting base to soak up all the delicious sauce.

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Begin by whisking together the reduced sodium soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch in a small bowl. This mixture is your flavor powerhouse, marrying sweet, salty, and spicy notes with the perfect thickness to coat your beef and broccoli beautifully. Setting it aside now lets the flavors meld together while you cook.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onion

Heat the sesame oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, then cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is nearly cooked through and the onions soften—about five minutes. This step releases savory juices and softens the onions just enough to blend seamlessly with the beef’s hearty texture.

Step 3: Add the Sauce and Broccoli

Pour your reserved sauce into the skillet and stir it into the beef and onions, cooking for about one minute. The cornstarch will start to thicken the sauce, creating a glossy coating. Then, add the blanched broccoli florets and continue cooking for another minute. This keeps the broccoli tender-crisp, preserving that fresh bite that elevates the dish.

Step 4: Plate and Garnish

Divide the ground beef and broccoli mixture evenly among four plates or shallow bowls. If using, layer a bed of cooked rice or cauliflower rice underneath for a hearty base. Finally, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions over the top for a burst of nuttiness and fresh color that makes the dish irresistible.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

The dish shows a white speckled bowl filled with a base layer of white cooked rice, topped with a mix of dark brown ground meat, bright green broccoli florets, and light brown cooked onion pieces. The meat and vegetables are mixed with small white sesame seeds and thin slices of green onions scattered on top. A silver fork is placed on the right side of the bowl, resting partly on the rice and mixture. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface with a small round bowl of sesame seeds and another container with chopped green onions nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions is classic and essential for this dish. You can also add a drizzle of extra sesame oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little extra heat and aroma. These finishing touches add layers of flavor and make your stir fry look vibrant and inviting.

Side Dishes

This stir fry shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice, fluffy cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even some crispy spring rolls for an appetizer. A light cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing also complements the rich, savory notes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe in a sizzling hot cast iron skillet for a dramatic presentation, or wrap it inside lettuce leaves for a fresh handheld meal. You could also spoon it over noodles or steamed buns for a fun, casual twist that your family or guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it just as delicious when reheated. Make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing it to preserve freshness.

Freezing

This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe freezes beautifully. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each to maintain flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great lean alternatives if you want a lighter option. Just be mindful that the cooking time may vary slightly to ensure the meat cooks through properly.

Do I have to blanch the broccoli before adding it to the stir fry?

Blanching the broccoli keeps it bright green and tender-crisp, which contrasts nicely with the beef. If you’re short on time, you can skip blanching but cook the broccoli a bit longer in the pan to soften it up.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap the reduced sodium soy sauce for gluten-free tamari to keep the same great flavor without gluten. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Is this dish spicy? Can I adjust the heat?

This stir fry isn’t spicy on its own, but you can easily add red pepper flakes, sliced chilies, or a drizzle of chili oil if you want some kick. Adjust according to your preference to keep it cozy or fiery.

Can I prep any parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can mix the sauce ahead and keep it refrigerated, chop the onion and blanch the broccoli earlier in the day, which speeds up the cooking process when it’s time to stir fry. It’s a great way to have dinner ready in minutes.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about a Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe that comes together quickly without compromising flavor or nutrition. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug after a busy day, with savory, sweet, and vibrant notes blending perfectly. I promise once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your family’s favorite weeknight go-tos, just like it did for me.

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