Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is one of those magical weeknight dinners that feels both comforting and fresh. With its perfect blend of tender ground beef, crisp broccoli, and a luscious, savory sauce, every bite delivers a satisfying harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re craving something quick or a dish with a vibrant homemade vibe, this recipe ticks all the boxes without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s a fantastic staple to keep in your recipe arsenal, and I’m excited to share how you can easily whip it up at home!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building the delicious flavor and texture of this stir fry. From the hearty, juicy ground beef to the fresh crunch of broccoli and the sweet-savory sauce components, these essentials come together to make a vibrant meal.
- Peanut oil: Ideal for high-heat cooking, it brings a subtle nutty aroma that enhances the stir fry’s flavor.
- Broccoli florets: Washed and dried, they provide that beautiful green pop and a satisfying crunch.
- Ground beef: The star protein that adds richness and depth to the dish.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and a gentle bite when cooked down.
- Red bell pepper: Brings a colorful freshness and mild sweetness that lightens the dish.
- Salt and white pepper: Simple seasoning that amplifies the natural flavors without overpowering.
- Cornstarch: Creates that perfect silky, thickened sauce that clings to every bite.
- Cold water: Used to make the cornstarch slurry, ensuring the sauce has the right texture.
- Beef broth: Adds depth and savory richness to the sauce.
- Soy sauce: Provides umami and saltiness, crucial for authentic stir fry flavor.
- Brown sugar: Balances the saltiness with a touch of caramel sweetness.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and a glossy finish to the sauce.
- Garlic: Minced for bursts of fragrant, aromatic flavor throughout the dish.
- Ground ginger: Offers subtle warmth and a bit of zest.
- Toasted sesame oil: The finishing touch that brings a nutty, toasty character.
- Cooked rice: Your base, perfectly absorbs the sauce and rounds out the meal.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by getting everything ready to go—wash and dry the broccoli florets, dice the onion, slice the red bell pepper, and mince the garlic. In a small container, mix the cornstarch with cold water and shake well to form a slurry; keep it in a cool spot so it’s ready when you need to thicken the sauce. Next, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ground ginger, and toasted sesame oil in a bowl—the foundation of your sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Heat the peanut oil in a skillet over medium heat, toss in the broccoli florets, and give them a quick stir to coat with oil. Let them cook for 4 to 5 minutes, just until they soften but remain crisp and vibrant. Then transfer them to a plate to keep warm. This short cook keeps that fresh crunch which complements the tender beef perfectly.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef and Vegetables
In the same pan, season the ground beef with salt and white pepper, then add the diced onion. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking up the beef as it browns, until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease so the dish isn’t greasy. Toss in the sliced red bell pepper, cooking for another minute to soften it slightly without losing its sweet snap.
Step 4: Combine with the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the pan with the beef and vegetables, bringing it to a boil. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce reduces just a bit. Give your cornstarch slurry a good shake one last time, then gradually stir it into the pan. Keep cooking gently until the sauce thickens beautifully and coats everything like a glossy, flavorful blanket.
Step 5: Finish with Broccoli and Serve
Reduce the heat to low, add the broccoli back into the pan, and toss to mix everything thoroughly. Warm through for a couple of minutes so that broccoli reabsorbs the flavors. Serve piping hot over your cooked rice. If you like, garnish with green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an extra bit of flair.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds adds that lovely final touch—both in taste and presentation. They bring freshness and a little crunch that complements the meaty, saucy stir fry so well. You can even add a drizzle of extra toasted sesame oil for a more pronounced nutty aroma.
Side Dishes
While this dish is hearty on its own, pairing it with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice makes for a complete meal. For a bit of freshness, a light Asian-inspired cucumber salad or a simple miso soup on the side balances the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe over a bed of noodles like lo mein or rice noodles for a twist. Alternatively, turn it into a lettuce wrap wrap for a light, handheld version. It also works beautifully spooned over baked sweet potatoes or mixed with quinoa for a modern, nutritious flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe keeps very well and actually tastes even better after the flavors settle overnight!
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, let the stir fry cool completely before packing it in a freezer-safe container. It’s best enjoyed within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick. Stir frequently to warm everything evenly without overcooking the broccoli.
FAQs
Can I use another type of meat in this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great lighter alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as poultry cooks a bit faster than beef.
How do I keep the broccoli crisp and bright green?
Cooking the broccoli just until it’s tender-crisp is key. Also, drying the florets before cooking helps them brown nicely without steaming. Quick cooking over medium heat maintains that signature crunch and color.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. This swap retains all the delicious umami flavor without gluten concerns.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! Add a splash of chili garlic sauce, red pepper flakes, or fresh chopped chilies when you add the sauce to give this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe a fiery kick.
What’s the best type of rice to serve with this stir fry?
Any cooked rice you have on hand works well, but fluffy jasmine or long-grain white rice soaks up the sauce beautifully. Brown rice adds nuttiness and extra fiber too.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a reliable, flavorful dinner that never disappoints, the Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is a true winner. It’s simple enough for busy nights but packed with enough bold flavors to keep you coming back. Once you try making this at home, I bet it’ll become one of your go-to recipes for comfort and convenience combined. Give it a whirl, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 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 weeknight dinner. Tender broccoli florets are cooked to crisp-tender perfection and combined with savory ground beef, sweet bell peppers, and a rich homemade sauce. Served over steamed rice, this dish balances savory, sweet, and umami flavors with a hint of ginger and garlic.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 1 Tablespoon peanut oil (can substitute vegetable or 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
- 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
To Serve
- 3 cups cooked rice, any kind
Instructions
- Prep Work: Combine the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water in a covered container and shake well to form a slurry. Place it in a cool spot. In a medium bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey (start with 1 tablespoon), minced garlic, ground ginger, and toasted sesame oil. Set the sauce mixture aside.
- Cook the Broccoli: Heat the peanut oil in a skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and toss them in the oil to coat evenly. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet crisp. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Season the ground beef with salt and white pepper if desired. Add the beef and diced onions to the same pan over medium-high heat. Cook, breaking up the meat and stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease from the pan. Add the sliced red bell pepper and cook for an additional 1 minute to soften slightly.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the pan with the beef and peppers. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 2-3 minutes to slightly reduce and meld flavors. Shake the cornstarch slurry again and slowly stir it into the sauce, cooking gently while it bubbles until the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency.
- Add the Broccoli Back: Lower the heat to low and return the cooked broccoli to the pan. Stir well to combine all ingredients and heat through thoroughly. Optional: garnish with sliced green onions. Serve the stir fry hot over your choice of cooked rice.
Notes
- You can substitute peanut oil with vegetable or olive oil if preferred.
- Adjust the amount of honey to taste based on your desired sweetness level.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
- Cook the broccoli until just tender to keep some crunch and vibrant color.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
