If you’ve ever craved a meal that’s bursting with flavor yet comes together in under 30 minutes, you’re in for a treat with this Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe. It’s a fantastic blend of tender ground beef, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious honey garlic sauce that’s sweet, savory, and just a little bit tangy. This dish is not only super easy to whip up on a busy weeknight but also hits all the right notes in terms of texture and taste, making it a perfect family favorite you’ll want to keep coming back to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and creating the perfect balance between hearty and fresh. From the lean ground beef that adds rich protein, to the crisp broccoli bringing a lovely crunch and color — each element is simple but essential.
- Lean ground beef (1 lb): Provides a flavorful, hearty base that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Broccoli florets (3 cups): Adds crunch and vibrant green color that lightens the dish.
- Small onion, diced (1): Delivers sweetness and depth to the savory profile.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavors.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): A healthy fat for sautéing that enhances all ingredients.
- Soy sauce, low sodium (â…“ cup): Brings a salty umami base that enhances the honey garlic sauce.
- Honey (¼ cup): Adds natural sweetness and balances the savory soy.
- Rice vinegar (1 tbsp): Provides a subtle tang that brightens the dish.
- Grated ginger (1 tsp): Adds a zesty warmth that complements garlic perfectly.
- Cornstarch (1 tbsp, mixed with 2 tbsp water): Thickens the sauce to a beautiful glaze consistency.
- Red pepper flakes (½ tsp, optional): Offers a gentle heat for those who like a slight kick.
- Cooked rice or noodles (2 cups): The perfect base to soak up all that delicious sauce.
- Sesame seeds (1 tbsp): Provide a toasty crunch and subtle nuttiness as garnish.
- Green onions, sliced (2): Deliver a fresh, crisp finish to the dish.
How to Make Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by combining the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Whisk them together until you have a smooth, flavorful liquid. Then mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry that will help thicken the sauce to a perfect consistency later on.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it’s fragrant and just starting to soften. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spatula, and cook until it’s nicely browned all over. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release that incredible aroma.
Step 3: Add the Broccoli
Next, it’s time to add the broccoli florets. Stir them into the beef mixture, then pour in ¼ cup of water and cover the skillet. Let the broccoli steam for about 3 to 4 minutes so it becomes tender but retains a satisfying crunch that makes this dish so enjoyable.
Step 4: Pour the Sauce and Thicken
Remove the lid and pour the honey garlic sauce over the beef and broccoli. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Then add the cornstarch slurry, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and coats every bite with a glossy, irresistible finish.
Step 5: Serve
Once everything is perfectly cooked, remove the pan from heat. Serve your Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry over a bed of fluffy cooked rice or your favorite noodles. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a final pop of flavor and crunch.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
While the sesame seeds and green onions included in the recipe already bring a delightful touch, consider a few additional garnishes like chopped fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime for brightness, or even a sprinkle of toasted crushed peanuts to add extra texture and personality.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice, garlic fried rice, or chewy udon noodles to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce. You could also add a refreshing cucumber salad or quick pickled vegetables on the side to balance the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry in crispy lettuce cups for a fresh handheld option. Another great idea is plating it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative while still keeping things vibrant and satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover stir-fry in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The beef and broccoli retain their flavor well, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to store the dish longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to warm everything evenly. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce and keep the broccoli tender but not soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of ground meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef works perfectly here, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork if you prefer. Just keep an eye on cooking times to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe?
Yes! You can replace ground beef with firm tofu, tempeh, or plant-based meat crumbles. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly and consider adding a splash of vegetable broth to keep things moist.
How spicy is this stir-fry?
The red pepper flakes provide a mild kick that you can easily omit or increase based on your heat preference. It’s designed to be approachable for all spice lovers.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce and chop veggies ahead to save time on busy days. Cook everything fresh to get the best texture, but it reheats wonderfully if made in advance.
What’s the best way to get the broccoli perfectly tender-crisp?
Steaming the broccoli briefly with a splash of water and a covered pan is key. It softens the veg just enough while keeping that fantastic crunch that contrasts beautifully with the saucy beef.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is a wonderful, foolproof dish that brings together the best of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors in one pan. It’s comforting yet vibrant, easy to make, and perfect for any night of the week. I encourage you to try it out and make it your own—dinner just got a whole lot tastier and more exciting!
Print
Honey Garlic 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
This Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring lean ground beef, vibrant broccoli florets, and a savory-sweet honey garlic sauce, this recipe combines fresh ingredients with a flavorful Asian-inspired twist. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an easy one-pan stir-fry that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles for a wholesome, satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups cooked rice or noodles
Sauce Ingredients
- â…“ cup low sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
Garnish
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and optional red pepper flakes to create a balanced, flavorful honey garlic sauce. Separately, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to form a smooth slurry and set it aside for thickening the sauce later.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté for about 2 minutes until they start to soften. Add the lean ground beef to the pan, cooking while breaking it apart with a spatula until it is fully browned and cooked through. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Add the Broccoli: Incorporate the broccoli florets into the skillet. Pour in ¼ cup of water, then cover the pan. Allow the broccoli to steam for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes tender but remains crisp, maintaining its vibrant green color and texture.
- Pour in the Sauce: Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture in the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to meld the flavors together. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking while stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients beautifully.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an added crunch and burst of flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chili slices.
- Use low sodium soy sauce to control salt levels and maintain a balanced flavor.
- Make sure to not overcook the broccoli to keep its vibrant color and crunch.
- This dish can be easily made gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in a skillet or microwave.
