Name: Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry: A Quick and Flavorful Weeknight Favorite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian–American fusion
Ingredients: 1 cup water; 6 Tbsp lower‑sodium soy sauce; 3 Tbsp packed light brown sugar; 1 Tbsp cornstarch; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 Tbsp minced fresh ginger (from a 1″ piece); 2 tsp unseasoned rice vinegar; 3 Tbsp neutral oil (canola), divided; 12 oz fresh broccoli florets (~5¼ cups); 1 lb 90/10 lean ground beef; ½ tsp kosher salt; 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional); 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional); Steamed white rice, for serving

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For a dish that’s healthy, satisfying, and easy to make, this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a total winner. With the bold flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, combined with tender broccoli and savory ground beef, it delivers all the comfort and excitement of takeout with none of the fuss. This recipe is designed for busy weeknights—everything cooks quickly in one pan, and you can serve it over rice for a complete meal in under 30 minutes.

Unlike traditional beef and broccoli that uses sliced steak, this version with ground beef is not only more budget-friendly but also faster to cook. It soaks up the stir-fry sauce beautifully, creating a rich, umami-packed dish that clings to every bite. Balanced by the slight sweetness of brown sugar and the zing of rice vinegar, this dish is flavorful without being overpowering. Whether you’re new to stir-frying or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep and cleanup.
Healthy and Balanced – Lean protein and fresh veggies make it a nourishing meal.
Flavor-Packed – A savory-sweet sauce with garlic, ginger, and soy adds bold flavor.
Family-Friendly – Mild enough for kids but satisfying for adults.
Budget-Conscious – Ground beef and basic pantry staples keep costs low.

Ingredients

Water
Lower-sodium soy sauce
Light brown sugar
Cornstarch
Garlic, minced
Fresh ginger, minced
Unseasoned rice vinegar
Neutral oil (e.g., canola)
Fresh broccoli florets
Ground beef (90/10 lean)
Kosher salt
Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Steamed white rice (for serving)

Variations

Swap the Protein

Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for different dietary preferences.

Make It Spicy

Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for some heat.

Add More Veggies

Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots for extra color and nutrition.

Go Low-Carb

Serve over cauliflower rice or steamed cabbage instead of white rice.

Gluten-Free Option

Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce and double-check your other ingredients.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

In a small bowl, whisk together water, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar. Set the sauce aside.

Step 2

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and cook, stirring often, until just tender and slightly charred. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3

Add the remaining oil to the pan. Add the ground beef and season with salt. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through.

Step 4

Return the broccoli to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli.

Step 5

Stir everything together and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.

Step 6

Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if using. Serve immediately over steamed rice.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use fresh garlic and ginger for the most vibrant flavor.
Don’t overcook the broccoli—it should remain slightly crisp for texture.
Stir the sauce before adding to re-distribute the cornstarch.
Use a wide pan for better heat distribution and quicker cooking.
Double the sauce if you prefer your stir-fry extra saucy.

How to Serve

Serve hot over steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice. For a lighter meal, serve over cauliflower rice or shredded lettuce. Add a drizzle of sriracha or a dash of chili oil for an extra kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in single portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess water in the pan.

2. What’s the best substitute for rice vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar work in a pinch.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely, it reheats well for meal prep or next-day lunches.

4. How do I keep the broccoli from getting mushy?

Cook it briefly and remove it from the pan before adding the beef.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be if you use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

6. Can I add noodles instead of rice?

Yes, this dish pairs well with rice noodles or lo mein-style noodles.

7. What kind of oil should I use?

Neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or avocado oil work best.

8. How can I make it less salty?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount if needed.

9. Can I use pre-minced garlic and ginger?

Yes, but fresh will offer the best flavor.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Definitely—just use a large enough skillet or cook in batches.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a speedy, satisfying meal that hits all the right notes—savory, slightly sweet, and wonderfully aromatic. With simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or effortless meal prepping. The dish is versatile enough to suit many diets and customizable to your personal taste. Add this to your dinner rotation and enjoy a flavorful takeout-style meal made right at home.