If you are craving a quick, flavorful, and wholesome meal, this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is just what you need. It combines tender, juicy ground beef with crisp, vibrant broccoli all tossed in a savory garlic-ginger sauce that is bursting with Asian-inspired flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when guests drop by unexpectedly, this dish is both comforting and exciting to the palate. The balance of textures and the umami-packed sauce make it a standout favorite that comes together in just about 30 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, focusing on fresh and essential ingredients that each bring their own magic. The combination of lean ground beef, fresh broccoli, and aromatic seasonings creates a harmony of taste, color, and texture that is truly satisfying.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Provides a rich, meaty base packed with protein and flavor.
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets: Adds a fresh crunch and a vibrant green color that brightens the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a robust aroma that enhances the savory depth of the stir fry.
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated: Offers a zesty warmth that lifts the entire flavor profile.
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce: Brings saltiness and umami without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil: Infuses a nutty richness that rounds out the savory notes beautifully.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry): Helps thicken the sauce so it clings perfectly to the beef and broccoli.
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color at the end.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping the broccoli into bite-sized florets, then mince the garlic and grate the ginger finely. Having everything prepped before cooking ensures a smooth, quick stir fry.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spatula until nicely browned—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Browning the beef well is key to developing those rich, caramelized notes that give this dish its heart.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger
Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and grated ginger directly into the skillet. Stir them around for about one minute until you catch that inviting, fragrant scent filling your kitchen. This brief step infuses the meat with aromatic undertones that make all the difference.
Step 4: Stir in Broccoli, Soy Sauce, and Sesame Oil
Now it’s time to toss in the broccoli florets followed by the soy sauce and toasted sesame oil. Stir-fry everything together for 3 to 4 minutes until the broccoli turns a bright, vibrant green while maintaining a satisfying crunch. This step locks in freshness and balance between tender meat and crisp veggies.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Pour in the cornstarch slurry slowly while stirring continuously. This will thicken the sauce slightly, giving it a luscious sheen that perfectly coats every morsel. Keep the heat on for just another minute before removing the pan from the stove.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, flavorful finish. Serve your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe immediately over steamed rice or alongside noodles to soak up all the delicious sauce.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the chopped green onions, consider a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a few red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. A drizzle of extra toasted sesame oil right before serving can add a delightful fragrance that enhances every bite.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs perfectly with simple steamed white or brown rice, but it’s also fantastic alongside garlic fried rice or even some silky udon noodles for a twist. Crisp cucumber salad or a light Asian slaw complement the dish wonderfully, adding contrasting textures and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the stir fry in individual bowls topped with a soft-boiled egg or pickled ginger for a gourmet touch. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles. Simple garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro can brighten the presentation even more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen, making your next meal just as delightful. Just be sure to keep the garnish separate if you want to preserve its fresh crunch.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain the best texture and flavor of both the beef and broccoli.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat. Adding a splash of water or broth while warming helps to loosen the sauce and keeps the broccoli from drying out. Avoid the microwave if possible to preserve the texture and flavor integrity.
FAQs
Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork work well in this stir fry. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to avoid gluten. Both options maintain the savory umami flavor crucial to this stir fry.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can swap out the ground beef for firm tofu or tempeh. Press and crumble the tofu before cooking to mimic the texture of ground meat, and increase the sauce to enhance the flavor.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
A good alternative is arrowroot powder or potato starch. If neither is available, you can skip this step, though the sauce will be a bit thinner.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can chop all vegetables and make the cornstarch slurry the day before. Cook the beef and stir fry everything just before serving for the best freshness and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is truly a weeknight hero—quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor that feels like a special treat every time. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this dish again and again. Give it a go, and enjoy sharing this easy, delicious meal with your family and friends!
Print
Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners. It combines lean ground beef with fresh broccoli florets, garlic, and ginger in a savory soy and sesame sauce, thickened with a cornstarch slurry. Ready in just 30 minutes, this stir fry is delicious served over steamed rice or noodles, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb lean ground beef
Vegetables
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sauce and Seasonings
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the broccoli into florets and mince the garlic and ginger to have all components ready before 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 it is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until the mixture becomes fragrant but not burnt.
- Stir Fry Broccoli: Add the fresh broccoli florets, low-sodium soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil to the skillet. Stir-fry this mixture for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and is tender-crisp.
- Thicken Sauce: Pour in the cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously. This will thicken the sauce slightly and coat the ingredients evenly.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the stir fry with chopped green onions. Serve immediately, ideally over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add chili flakes or a splash of sriracha when cooking the aromatics.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the beef for better browning.
- If you prefer a lower sodium dish, reduce the soy sauce amount or use a soy sauce alternative.
- This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce.
- 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 Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
