Name: Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 4 cups broccoli florets; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional); 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra depth); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/2 cup water or beef broth; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Cooked rice, for serving; Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, budget-friendly, and uses ingredients I usually already have on hand. The ground beef adds richness, while the broccoli keeps it light and fresh. The sauce is simple to make but packed with flavor—salty, slightly sweet, and just a touch garlicky. It all comes together in under 30 minutes and works as a complete meal.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Broccoli florets
Garlic, minced
Soy sauce
Brown sugar or honey
Sesame oil
Cornstarch
Water
Salt
Pepper
Optional: green onions, red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, or cooked rice for serving

Directions

I begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, I drain any excess fat.
I add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
I toss in the broccoli florets and stir to combine. If they’re fresh, I sometimes add a splash of water and cover the pan to steam them for 3–4 minutes.
While that cooks, I whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water to make the sauce.
I pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli, stirring everything together until coated. I let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
I taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then serve hot—usually over white rice or noodles.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so dinner is ready in just 25 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I like to swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. I’ve also added bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots for more veggies and color. If I’m going low-carb, I skip the rice and serve it over cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own.

Storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use a skillet over medium heat or microwave it for 1–2 minutes until warmed through. The flavors are often even better the next day, and it makes a great meal prep option.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I can. I just thaw it beforehand and pat it dry so it doesn’t release too much moisture into the stir fry.

What type of ground beef is best?

I usually use lean ground beef (85% or 90%) to avoid excess grease but still get that rich flavor.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely. I just use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default, but I often add red pepper flakes or a bit of sriracha to give it a little kick.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, it freezes well. I let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. I thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

Ground beef and broccoli stir fry is one of those easy dinners I can count on when time is short but I still want something delicious and satisfying. With bold flavor, simple prep, and flexible ingredients, it’s a dish I keep in my regular meal rotation.