Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a quick, flavorful meal that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is just that! With tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and a savory sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. Plus, it pairs perfectly with hot cooked rice, making it a complete meal that the whole family will love. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why This Recipe Works

This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry manages to combine simplicity with flavor in the best way possible. The lean ground beef cooks quickly, allowing for a speedy dinner solution without sacrificing taste. The broccoli adds not just a pop of color, but also a satisfying crunch. The balance of soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger creates a savory-sweet sauce that ties everything together beautifully. And the best part? You can customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand!

Ingredient Rundown

To create this delicious stir fry, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef (93% lean): The star of the dish, providing protein and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a lovely depth of flavor.
• 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon pepper: A pinch of spice.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the ingredients.
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets: Provides crunch and nutrition.
• 1 small onion, sliced thin: For sweetness and texture.
• ½ cup water: Helps create steam for cooking the broccoli.
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce: The base of the stir fry sauce.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Infuses warmth and spice.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for a perfect consistency.
• Hot cooked rice: For serving, a great base for the stir fry.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right tools on hand:

• Large skillet or wok: Essential for stir-frying.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure your ingredients.
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping the onion and any additional veggies.
• Serving bowls: To serve the delicious stir fry over rice.

Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: A Simple Method

Ready to get cooking? Follow these easy steps for a mouthwatering Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Wash the broccoli and slice the onion thinly. This ensures everything cooks evenly and quickly.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Onions

Add the sliced onions to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir frequently and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and slightly softened.

Step 4: Incorporate the Broccoli

Next, add the fresh broccoli florets to the skillet. Pour in the water, and cover the skillet with a lid. This will steam the broccoli, allowing it to cook quickly while still retaining its bright color and crunch. Cook for about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, ground ginger, and cornstarch. Make sure to dissolve the cornstarch completely to avoid lumps.

Step 6: Combine Everything

After the broccoli has steamed, remove the lid and stir in the sauce mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat all the ingredients beautifully.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry over hot cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!

Year-Round Variations

This stir fry is incredibly versatile! Here are some variations you might enjoy:

• Swap in other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add a splash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Mix in some cashews or peanuts for added crunch and flavor.

Notes on Ingredients

When making your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Using lean ground beef keeps the dish healthy, but feel free to use any ground meat you prefer.
• If you want to reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce, which is already included in the recipe.
• Fresh broccoli is best, but frozen broccoli can also work in a pinch—just adjust the cooking time.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of sugar, such as coconut sugar or honey, for a unique twist on the sauce.

Save It for Later

This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is perfect for meal prep! Simply make a larger batch and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat quickly in the microwave or on the stovetop for a fast lunch or dinner.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen broccoli for this stir fry?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through and tender.

What can I serve with this stir fry?

This stir fry is delicious served over rice, but you could also try it with noodles or quinoa for a different twist.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use a gluten-free soy sauce alternative and check that your brown sugar is also gluten-free.

How can I adjust the spice level?

If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of ginger or omit any spicy elements. For more heat, try adding chili paste or fresh chopped chili peppers.

What to Make After This

• Ground Beef Creamy Shells Pasta – A comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for busy nights.
• Loaded Ground Beef Nacho Casserole – A cheesy, crowd-pleasing casserole that’s great for sharing.
• One Skillet Korean Ground Beef Tacos – A fun and flavorful taco night option!

Bring It to the Table

There you have it – a simple yet flavorful Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry that’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to impress guests. With its vibrant colors and satisfying flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. So grab your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and enjoy a delightful dinner that’s ready in no time!