When I first encountered this dish, it was during a week where takeout was starting to feel like a chore. I needed something fresh, quick, and satisfying that would bring excitement back to dinner. Enter the Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry! This vibrant meal is a colorful escape from mundane fast food, combining tender broccoli and savory ground beef in a luscious sauce that clings to every bite.
Imagine the enticing aroma of garlic and ginger wafting through your kitchen as you whip it up in just 30 minutes. The balance of lightly sweet and savory flavors makes this stir fry a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a last-minute gathering, it requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum impact. Plus, it’s a delightful way to make sure everyone is getting their veggies while enjoying a hearty meal. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry So Loved?
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a delicious meal. Flavorful Harmony: The blend of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering sauce that complements both beef and broccoli perfectly. Nutritious Choice: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a wholesome alternative to fast food. Flexible Serving Options: Pair it with steamed rice for a complete meal, or serve it over noodles for a fun twist. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dish appeals to everyone around the table, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. Get inspired with more stir fry ideas from our other recipes!
Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Ingredients
Get ready to stir up some deliciousness!
For the Sauce
- Water – acts as the base for the delicious sauce you’re about to create.
- Lower-sodium soy sauce – adds a savory depth while keeping the sodium in check.
- Light brown sugar – gives a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- Cornstarch – works as a thickener for that perfect sauce consistency.
- Garlic – the aromatic ingredient that elevates the dish’s flavor.
- Fresh ginger – brings a zesty kick that complements the savory notes.
- Unseasoned rice vinegar – adds a hint of acidity to brighten the dish.
For the Stir Fry
- Neutral oil (canola) – ideal for high-heat cooking without overpowering flavors.
- Fresh broccoli florets – provides vibrant color and essential nutrients in your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry.
- Lean ground beef (90/10) – offers a hearty protein source that’ll keep you satisfied.
- Kosher salt – enhances all the delightful flavors of the stir fry.
Optional Toppings
- Toasted sesame seeds – gives an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Green onions – adds freshness and a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.
- Steamed white rice – serves as a comforting foundation for your stir fry masterpiece.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
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Whisk Together: In a medium bowl, combine the water, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, minced garlic, fresh ginger, and rice vinegar. Whisk until everything is dissolved and well-mixed. Make sure the sugar is fully incorporated!
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Cook Broccoli: Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the broccoli florets. Stir occasionally until tender-crisp and slightly blackened, about 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer them to a bowl and set aside.
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Brown the Beef: Reduce the skillet’s heat to medium, adding the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the lean ground beef, sprinkling with kosher salt. Cook while stirring occasionally to break into crumbles until browned, approximately 5 minutes.
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Add Sauce: Pour in the sauce you prepared earlier. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly and flavors meld, which should take about 3 minutes.
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Combine Everything: Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli evenly, about 3 more minutes. Top with optional sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over warm, steamed white rice for a cozy meal.
Optional: Add a dash of chili flakes for a spicy kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce (whisk together water, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar) and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can wash and cut the broccoli florets ahead of time and keep them in a sealed bag for up to 24 hours to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil, cook the broccoli, brown the beef, and add your prep-ahead sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy a scrumptious meal without the last-minute rush, just as delicious as if you made everything from scratch!
Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
- Perfect Broccoli: Ensure your broccoli is tender-crisp by not overcooking it; it should retain its vibrant color and crunch.
- Sauce Consistency: Don’t rush the sauce thickening process; it should be syrupy enough to coat the beef and broccoli beautifully.
- Lean Meat: Opt for 90/10 ground beef to keep the dish lighter while still enjoying a hearty flavor. Avoid overcooking to prevent toughness.
- Fresh Aromatics: Always use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor; dried spices won’t deliver the same punch in your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry.
- Customize It: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, to make this dish your own! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Fridge: Store your stir fry in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stir fry in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Portion it out for convenience, and label with the date.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Enjoy your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry!
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry?
Transform your dinner into a delightful feast with these perfect pairings!
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice absorbs the savory sauce, providing a comforting and satisfying base for the stir fry.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These delightful bites add a crunchy texture and fresh flavors, perfect for an appetizer or side dish.
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Garlic Green Beans: Tender and seasoned just right, they complement the stir fry’s savory profile while adding a fresh crunch.
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Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a light sesame oil dressing, these noodles bring a nutty flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the beef and broccoli.
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Miso Soup: The warm, umami-rich broth provides a soothing contrast to the stir fry, making for a balanced meal.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits acts as a sweet and light palate cleanser, ending your meal on a bright note.
These pairings not only elevate the dining experience but also create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love!
Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Variations
Feel free to take creative liberties with this recipe and make it your own!
- Dairy-Free: Swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free version for an easily adaptable dish without compromising flavor.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in sliced bell peppers or snap peas for added texture and nutrition; they’ll make your stir fry even more colorful!
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce for an exciting hint of heat.
- Proteins Galore: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter take on this classic dish. Each protein brings its unique flavor.
- Noodle Swap: Serve over cooked rice noodles instead of steamed rice for a fun twist that adds a chewy texture to every bite.
- Sweet and Savory: Incorporate pineapple chunks into the stir fry for a sweet contrast that balances with the savory sauce flawlessly.
- Nutty Flavor: Drizzle a bit of sesame oil over the finished dish to enhance the nutty flavor and aroma, making each bite irresistible.
- Herb Upgrade: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil sprinkled on top for a fragrant finish that elevates every mouthful.
Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli is best for this stir fry?
Fresh broccoli florets are ideal for this dish. Look for bright green, firm florets without any dark spots or yellowing. Ideally, they should have a slight crunch when cooked to achieve that perfect tender-crisp texture in your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry.
How should I store leftover stir fry?
Store your stir fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to let it cool completely before sealing the container to help maintain freshness. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I freeze Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let the stir fry cool completely. Then, portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags (removing excess air) for easy meal prep, and label with the date. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick during cooking, don’t worry! You can add a tablespoon of water or additional soy sauce to loosen it up, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust to your liking, as cooking is all about personal preferences.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This stir fry is quite versatile! For those with gluten sensitivities, opt for gluten-free soy sauce. If you’re cooking for pets or individuals with specific allergies, make sure to double-check ingredient labels, especially for any pre-packaged items like soy sauce. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
How can I customize this stir fry?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables such as bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly to ensure everything is cooked to perfection. Enjoy experimenting!
Savory Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Ready in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the water, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, minced garlic, fresh ginger, and rice vinegar. Whisk until everything is dissolved and well-mixed.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the broccoli florets. Stir occasionally until tender-crisp and slightly blackened, about 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer them to a bowl and set aside.
- Reduce the skillet's heat to medium, adding the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the lean ground beef, sprinkling with kosher salt. Cook while stirring occasionally to break into crumbles until browned, approximately 5 minutes.
- Pour in the sauce you prepared earlier. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly and flavors meld, which should take about 3 minutes.
- Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli evenly, about 3 more minutes. Top with optional sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over warm, steamed white rice.