Packed with savory flavor, tender beef, and vibrant broccoli, this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is the kind of weeknight dinner you’ll turn to again and again. It brings together the rich umami of Asian-inspired sauces and perfectly seasoned beef, all tossed with crisp broccoli for a meal that comes together in a flash. Whether you’re craving something cozy, looking for a family favorite, or simply want a fuss-free recipe with big flavor, this stir fry is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list is refreshingly short but each item plays a crucial role, enhancing everything from flavor and aroma to that irresistible glossy sauce. Here’s how each simple ingredient makes a difference in your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry.
- Ground beef: The heart of the dish, providing hearty texture and satisfying flavor.
- Vegetable oil: Just a splash helps everything sizzle and prevents sticking in the pan.
- Broccoli florets: Bring color, crunch, and nutritional punch you’ll love.
- Garlic (minced): Adds a burst of aromatic depth and unmistakable savoriness.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Balances saltiness while letting other flavors shine through.
- Oyster sauce: Delivers that classic restaurant-style richness and umami.
- Brown sugar: A touch of sweetness that rounds out all the savory notes.
- Rice vinegar: Brightens the flavors and adds just the right hint of zestiness.
- Sesame oil: Just a teaspoon infuses the stir fry with signature nutty aroma.
- Ground ginger: For gentle warmth and a subtle layer of spice in every bite.
- Cornstarch slurry (cornstarch and water): Thickens the sauce so it clings perfectly to the beef and broccoli.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Easily adjustable to match your personal preference.
- Cooked white rice: The ultimate cozy base to soak up all that delicious sauce.
- Sesame seeds and green onions (optional): These finishing touches add crunch and fresh color for a gorgeous plate.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by grabbing your largest skillet or a classic wok and set it over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and cook, breaking it up as you go, until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. If you see too much grease, drain the excess so your stir fry doesn’t get oily. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Broccoli
Add the vegetable oil to the same skillet—it’s loaded with flavorful tidbits from the beef. Add your broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often. The broccoli should turn a bright, vibrant green and get just a little tender with a hint of crunch left. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Your kitchen should already start smelling incredible!
Step 3: Return Beef and Mix Sauces
Return your cooked ground beef to the pan with the broccoli and garlic, stirring well to combine. In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and ground ginger. This savory-sweet and slightly tangy combination is what takes this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry over the top.
Step 4: Make It Saucy and Thick
Pour the sauce mixture into your skillet and stir everything together. Next, give your cornstarch slurry a quick mix (cornstarch plus water) and add it to the pan. Stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes as the sauce bubbles and thickens, binding the beef and broccoli in that shiny, delicious glaze we all love in a great stir fry.
Step 5: Taste and Serve
Give your stir fry a quick taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. When you’re happy with the flavor, serve the hot Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry over piles of fluffy white rice. Don’t forget to sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions if you feel like adding a final touch of color and crunch!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Garnishes
When serving, garnishes do more than just look pretty—they add flavor and texture, too! Scatter a handful of sesame seeds or finely sliced green onions on top for crunch and color. A little drizzle of extra sesame oil also brings out an even deeper nuttiness that pairs perfectly with this dish’s savory notes.
Side Dishes
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry shines alongside a bowl of steamed white rice, but feel free to branch out! Jasmine or brown rice are fantastic alternatives. Add a simple cucumber salad or a few vegetable spring rolls if you’re after a takeout-style feast right at home.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your stir fry in individual bowls over a bed of rice for a cozy, comforting vibe, or do a “rice bowl bar” by letting everyone layer their own ingredients and toppings. For a low-carb twist, spoon the beef and broccoli over steamed cauliflower rice or tuck it into lettuce wraps for a fresh, hands-on approach—kids and adults both love it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry stores beautifully. Transfer any extras to an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days, which makes leftovers perfect for grab-and-go lunches or quick weeknight meals.
Freezing
Want to plan ahead? Let your stir fry cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the broccoli may lose a bit of its crunch after freezing, but the flavor stays spot on.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it—just be sure to break up any cold spots so everything heats evenly. Either way, it will taste just as savory and satisfying as when you first made it.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a super convenient swap and works well in Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry. Just add it straight to the pan without thawing and adjust stir-frying time to ensure it’s cooked through and still bright green.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! Just substitute tamari for the soy sauce and check that your oyster sauce is gluten-free (many brands offer this option). With these simple switches, your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry will be fully gluten-free and just as tasty.
Can I use a different protein besides ground beef?
Yes, this recipe is super flexible! Try ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option, or even plant-based grounds for a vegetarian twist. The bold sauce and stir-fried veggies pair well with just about any protein you love.
What vegetables go well with beef and broccoli stir fry?
Feel free to get creative! Red bell peppers, snap peas, shredded carrots, mushrooms, or thinly sliced onions all taste fantastic. Adding extra veggies not only boosts the nutrition but also brings more color and a bit more crunch to your stir fry.
How do I keep the broccoli from getting mushy?
The trick is to stir-fry broccoli over high heat for only a few minutes, so it stays vibrant green and crisp-tender. Avoid overcooking, and always add it to the hot pan after beef is browned for that perfect texture every time in your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a meal that’s quick, satisfying, and loaded with flavor, the Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry truly delivers. Give it a try—you’ll be adding this recipe to your regular dinner rotation in no time!
Print
Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful ground beef and broccoli stir fry recipe that is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. This Asian-inspired dish is savory and satisfying, with tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a delicious sauce served over steamed white rice.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Stir Fry:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Broccoli Stir Fry:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked white rice for serving
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or wok, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease and set aside.
- Stir Fry the Broccoli: In the same skillet, sauté broccoli until tender, then add garlic and cook briefly.
- Combine: Return beef to the pan. Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, vinegar, sesame oil, and ginger. Pour over the beef and broccoli.
- Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning, then serve over rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
- For extra veggies, add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots.
- Use tamari for a gluten-free version.
- This dish is great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (without rice)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
