Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
If you are craving a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal that feels like a hug on a plate, the Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is here to delight your taste buds and simplify your dinner routine. This dish artfully combines tender ground beef with vibrant broccoli florets, all coated in a savory soy and sesame sauce that’s both comforting and satisfyingly fresh. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special yet comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a go-to favorite for busy days or anytime you want a delicious, home-cooked meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward but pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each element plays an essential role from the ground beef’s hearty richness to the broccoli’s crisp freshness and the garlic and ginger’s aromatic warmth that elevates the dish beyond ordinary.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Use lean to keep it juicy without excess grease.
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets: Bright, crunchy, and nutrient-packed to contrast the beef.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a bold, savory depth that wakes up the whole dish.
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated: Infuses a delicate zingy freshness crucial for authentic stir fry flavor.
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce: The umami backbone that brings everything together.
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil: A nutty aroma that enriches the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry): Lets you thicken the sauce to a luscious glaze.
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, crisp pop of color and mild onion flavor.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by chopping your broccoli into bite-sized florets and mincing the garlic and ginger so they’re ready to release their vibrant flavors as soon as they hit the hot skillet. Good prep is the secret to smooth cooking.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet heated over medium-high, add your ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned and broken into crumbles. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Browning creates that rich base flavor which makes this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe sing.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Mix in the minced garlic and grated ginger with the browned beef. Stir them around for about a minute until they turn fragrant and start to soften. Your kitchen will instantly smell amazing, and that scent means flavor is building.
Step 4: Toss in Broccoli and Sauces
Now it’s time to introduce the vibrant green broccoli, low-sodium soy sauce, and the toasted sesame oil. Stir-fry everything together for 3 to 4 minutes. The broccoli should turn bright green and be tender-crisp, providing a great textural contrast to the beef.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Pour in the cornstarch slurry while continuously stirring. This will thicken the sauce to a glossy coating that clings perfectly to every morsel. It’s these little touches that make the dish feel restaurant-worthy at home.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top. They add a fresh crunch and a burst of color just before serving. Plate it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or your favorite noodles for a complete meal.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
The chopped green onions are classic, but feel free to add toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil if you want to bring some heat. A wedge of lime on the side can also brighten the flavors and add a zesty twist.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a wholesome meal. You could also serve it atop ramen or rice noodles to mix things up. A crisp Asian cucumber salad or simple miso soup would round out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the stir fry inside lettuce cups for a fresh and handheld option. Alternatively, create a bowl with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a grain-free treat. Serving it family-style in a large bowl encourages everyone to dig in and share the joy of this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers should be cooled to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container and refrigerating. They keep well for 3 to 4 days, making this a perfect make-ahead lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
You can freeze this stir fry for up to 2 months. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers so you can thaw only what you need. Just be aware that broccoli’s texture may soften a bit after freezing and reheating, but the flavor remains delicious.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it looks dry. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts until steaming hot. Stir well to redistribute the sauce and enjoy your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe fresh all over again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli in the Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works in a pinch, but it’s best to thaw and drain it well before adding to reduce excess moisture. Fresh broccoli gives the best texture and vibrant color, though.
What if I want a spicier version?
To kick things up, add red pepper flakes with the garlic and ginger, or drizzle chili sauce over your plated dish. Sriracha or a fresh chopped chili also add exciting heat without overpowering the balanced flavors.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and double-check that your cornstarch is certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness of this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe.
Is there a low-carb way to enjoy this dish?
Replacing rice or noodles with cauliflower rice or simply enjoying the stir fry on its own works beautifully for a low-carb option while keeping all the satisfying flavors intact.
How can I add more vegetables to this stir fry?
Feel free to toss in sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots along with the broccoli for extra color, nutrition, and crunchy texture to make it even more vibrant and wholesome.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites because it’s quick, flavorful, and just downright comforting. It’s a wonderful way to bring a warm and tasty meal to the table any night of the week. Give it a try and I promise it will become a staple you reach for again and again.
Print
Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry that combines tender lean ground beef with vibrant broccoli florets in a savory garlic-ginger soy sauce. This easy 30-minute recipe delivers a balanced and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners, garnished with fresh green onions and ready to serve over rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
Sauce
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
Garnish
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the broccoli into florets, mince the garlic cloves, and grate the ginger. Set all aside for quick access during cooking.
- Cook Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the lean ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully browned and no longer pink.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger into the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 1 minute until the mixture becomes fragrant, enhancing the flavor base.
- Stir Fry Broccoli: Add the fresh broccoli florets, low-sodium soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil to the skillet. Stir-fry the mixture for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green and crisp.
- Thicken Sauce: Pour in the cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) while continuously stirring. Cook briefly until the sauce thickens slightly, coating the beef and broccoli evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped green onions on top as garnish. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For added depth, you can add a teaspoon of grated fresh chili or a splash of rice vinegar.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the salt levels in check.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding ingredients to promote good searing and flavor development.
- The cornstarch slurry helps create a glossy, slightly thick sauce that clings well to the beef and broccoli.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
