Ground Beef and Broccoli

A quick and flavorful ground beef and broccoli stir-fry that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This dish features tender-crisp broccoli, savory ground beef, and a rich, slightly sweet stir-fry sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and honey. It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent go-to meal when you need something fast and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• One-Pan Meal – Fewer dishes to clean up.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses simple and affordable ingredients.
• Customizable – Easily swap ingredients or adjust the seasoning to taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores well for leftovers throughout the week.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Skillet or Wok – Provides enough space for even cooking.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Helps break up the ground beef and stir ingredients efficiently.
• Mixing Bowls – For preparing the sauce and cornstarch slurry.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Ensures accurate ingredient proportions.

Preparation Tips

• Chop Vegetables in Advance – This makes the cooking process smoother.
• Use High Heat – Helps achieve a quick sear on the beef and prevents soggy vegetables.
• Pat Broccoli Dry – Prevents excess moisture from steaming the stir-fry instead of sautéing it.

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Ingredients (4 Servings)

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable/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 (for thickening)
• 1 cup beef broth
• ¼ cup soy sauce (use low-sodium if preferred)
• 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

For Serving:

• 3 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon honey (adjust later if needed), garlic, ground ginger, and sesame oil. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the broccoli and sauté for 4-5 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
3. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

1. In the same skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Season with salt and white pepper.
2. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if necessary.
3. Add the diced onions and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
4. Add the sliced red bell peppers and stir for 1 minute.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

1. Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
2. Stir the cornstarch slurry again, then slowly pour it into the sauce while stirring continuously.
3. Allow the sauce to thicken until it reaches the desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Reduce the heat to low and return the cooked broccoli to the skillet. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce.
2. Serve hot over cooked rice. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped peanuts if desired.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. The savory, slightly sweet sauce coats the beef and vegetables perfectly, making it ideal to pair with different bases and sides. Here are a few serving options:

Best Ways to Serve:

• Over Steamed Rice – The most classic way to enjoy this dish. White rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice all work well.
• With Fried Rice – Adds extra texture and flavor with eggs, vegetables, and soy sauce.
• With Noodles – Serve over lo mein, ramen, or rice noodles for a different twist.
• On Its Own – If you’re looking for a low-carb meal, enjoy it without rice or noodles.
• In Lettuce Wraps – Spoon the stir-fry into crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option.
• With Cauliflower Rice – A great alternative for a lighter, lower-carb meal.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Broccoli

Broccoli should be tender-crisp, not mushy. To achieve the best texture:

• Stir-fry it briefly in hot oil, then remove it before cooking the beef.
• If using frozen broccoli, thaw it first and pat it dry to prevent excess moisture.

2. Using Too Much Sauce

While a flavorful sauce is key, adding too much can overpower the dish or make it too salty. Start with the recommended amount, then adjust if needed.

3. Not Browning the Beef Properly

To enhance flavor:

• Cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned.
• Avoid stirring too much at the beginning so it develops a slight crust.
• Drain excess grease to prevent a greasy dish.

4. Skipping the Cornstarch Slurry

The cornstarch mixture thickens the sauce and helps it cling to the meat and vegetables. Without it, the sauce may be too thin. Always stir the slurry before adding it to prevent lumps.

5. Using the Wrong Pan

A large skillet or wok is essential for even cooking. A small pan may cause overcrowding, leading to steaming instead of stir-frying.

6. Not Adjusting Seasoning to Taste

Taste the sauce before adding it to the skillet. If it needs more sweetness, add extra honey. If you prefer more saltiness, increase the soy sauce.

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Best Side Dishes to Pair with Ground Beef and Broccoli

While this dish is delicious on its own, pairing it with a side dish can elevate the meal. Here are eight great options:

1. Egg Rolls

Crispy and flavorful, egg rolls make a great appetizer or side dish. Serve them with sweet chili sauce for dipping.

2. Steamed Dumplings

Soft dumplings filled with pork, chicken, or vegetables add variety to the meal. A side of soy sauce or dumpling sauce enhances the flavor.

3. Miso Soup

A light and warming miso soup with tofu and seaweed balances the savory stir-fry.

4. Asian Slaw

A crunchy cabbage slaw with a sesame dressing adds freshness and a contrasting texture.

5. Garlic Green Beans

Sauteed green beans with garlic and a splash of soy sauce make a simple yet flavorful side.

6. Cucumber Salad

A refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes provides a cool contrast to the rich stir-fry.

7. Spring Rolls

Lighter than fried egg rolls, fresh spring rolls with shrimp or tofu complement the dish well.

8. Stir-Fried Mushrooms

Mushrooms cooked in a bit of soy sauce and garlic add depth to the meal without overpowering the main dish.

By pairing ground beef and broccoli stir-fry with a side dish, you can create a well-rounded meal that feels both satisfying and balanced.

Expert Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Broccoli

1. Use Fresh Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

Fresh broccoli, garlic, and ginger will give the dish the best taste and texture. While frozen broccoli works in a pinch, it may release excess water and become too soft.

2. Adjust the Sauce to Your Preference

• For a sweeter sauce, add more honey or brown sugar.
• For a spicier kick, stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
• For a deeper umami flavor, mix in a teaspoon of oyster sauce.

3. Cook in Stages for Even Texture

To avoid overcooked vegetables or dry beef, cook each component separately. Brown the beef first, set it aside, then cook the broccoli before combining everything with the sauce.

4. Make It a Meal Prep Dish

This stir-fry holds up well for meal prep. Store portions in airtight containers with rice for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner.

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How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef and Broccoli

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Let thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
• Microwave: Reheat in a microwave-safe dish in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.
• Oven: For larger portions, reheat in a covered baking dish at 300°F for 15 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?

Yes. You can substitute ground turkey, ground chicken, or even thinly sliced beef. If using leaner meats, add a little extra sesame oil for flavor.

2. How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Also, check that your beef broth and cornstarch are gluten-free.

3. What Can I Use Instead of Cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch, try using arrowroot powder or a small amount of flour mixed with water. The sauce may have a slightly different texture but will still thicken.

4. Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?

Yes. Replace the ground beef with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or plant-based ground meat. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

5. What If My Sauce Is Too Thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add a little extra beef broth or water and stir until you reach the desired consistency.

6. Can I Add More Vegetables?

Absolutely. This stir-fry works well with carrots, snap peas, mushrooms, zucchini, or baby corn. Adjust cooking times to keep vegetables crisp.

7. How Can I Make This Dish Lower in Carbs?

Skip the rice and serve it over cauliflower rice or eat it on its own. Reduce the honey and brown sugar slightly to lower the carb count.

8. Is This Dish Spicy?

No, the base recipe is mild, but you can add spice with red pepper flakes, chili oil, or sriracha.

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Conclusion

This ground beef and broccoli stir-fry is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With a savory, slightly sweet sauce and tender-crisp vegetables, it’s both satisfying and versatile. Whether served over rice, noodles, or on its own, this dish is a reliable favorite that can be customized to suit any taste.

By following these tips and storage methods, you can enjoy leftovers that taste just as fresh as the first serving. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.