Ground Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ground Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a meal prep option. The combination of ground beef and broccoli is a classic, but it’s the rich sauce that brings everything together. The savory soy sauce, combined with garlic and ginger, gives the stir fry its signature depth of flavor. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a time-saver for busy days. You can also customize the recipe with your favorite veggies or spices, making it a versatile option for your dinner rotation.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

• 1 onion, sliced thinly

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated or minced

• 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional)

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil for cooking

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (optional, for added tang)

• 1 tsp honey or brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)

• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

2. Add the sliced onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. If you’re using fresh broccoli, sauté for about 5 minutes until they’re slightly tender. If using frozen broccoli, add them straight to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, or until heated through and tender.

5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and crushed red pepper flakes.

6. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and broccoli, stirring well to coat. Let it cook for another 3-4 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

8. Serve the stir fry over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total time: 25 minutes

• Active time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with ground tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian or vegan option.

• Add More Veggies: Include bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.

• Spicy Stir Fry: Add extra chili paste, more crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of sriracha to spice up the dish.

• Low-Carb Option: Serve the stir fry with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative to regular rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Ground Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to prevent the stir fry from drying out. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen ground beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen ground beef. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking, as frozen beef may release excess moisture when cooked.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, or pork are great alternatives to ground beef. You can also use shrimp or beef strips if you prefer a different protein.

Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this stir fry ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors may even improve as it sits, making it a great option for meal prep.

How do I prevent the broccoli from becoming overcooked?

To avoid overcooking the broccoli, sauté it just until it’s tender yet still vibrant in color. If using frozen broccoli, be careful not to cook it too long, as it can become mushy.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, to make this stir fry gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which are both gluten-free.

How can I make this stir fry spicier?

If you like heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes, a tablespoon of sriracha, or a dash of chili paste to the sauce for an extra spicy kick.

Can I use different sauces in this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different sauces such as oyster sauce, teriyaki sauce, or fish sauce to give the dish a different flavor profile.

Can I serve this stir fry without rice or noodles?

Yes, Ground Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry is flavorful enough to be enjoyed on its own, or you can serve it over low-carb alternatives like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Can I make this dish in advance?

While stir-fry dishes are best fresh, you can prepare the beef and sauce mixture ahead of time and cook the vegetables just before serving for a quick and easy meal.

Can I freeze Ground Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry?

While it’s not ideal to freeze the stir fry with the broccoli, you can freeze the cooked ground beef and sauce mixture separately. Thaw and cook fresh vegetables when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Ground Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick and delicious meal that combines the richness of ground beef with the crisp freshness of broccoli. The savory, tangy sauce adds depth and flavor to every bite. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a healthy, satisfying dinner, this stir fry is the perfect solution. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a versatile dish that fits any taste or dietary preference. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a delicious, nutritious meal in less than 30 minutes!