Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry brings together bold flavors and wholesome ingredients for a satisfying, fuss-free dinner. The combination of tender-crisp broccoli, savory ground beef, and a rich umami sauce creates a mouthwatering balance of texture and taste. Perfect for busy nights, this dish is quick to prepare and endlessly versatile. Serve it over rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter twist. The homemade sauce shines with garlic, ginger, and sesame—giving you all the flavor of your favorite takeout, but made fresh in your own kitchen.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef
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4 cups broccoli florets
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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2 tablespoons oyster sauce
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1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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1/2 cup beef broth
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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2 tablespoons water
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Directions:
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In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, beef broth, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.
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In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry.
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Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
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Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
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Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
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Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and broccoli, stirring to coat.
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Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
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Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and scallions. Serve over rice or noodles.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a Modern Classic
When you think of quick, flavorful meals that please the whole family, Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry deserves a top spot. This dish marries the bold, savory flavors of Asian-style stir fry with the accessibility and affordability of ground beef—resulting in a comforting, high-protein, veggie-packed meal that’s fast to cook and easy to customize.
Background and Cultural Inspiration
Beef and broccoli is a beloved staple in Chinese-American cuisine, popularized by takeout restaurants throughout North America. Traditionally made with sliced flank steak or sirloin, the classic dish is stir-fried with crisp-tender broccoli in a savory garlic and soy-based sauce. It offers a perfect balance between meatiness and vegetable freshness, often served over rice or noodles. What sets Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry apart is its use of ground beef instead of sliced cuts. This makes the dish more budget-friendly, quicker to prepare, and just as satisfying. Ground beef absorbs the sauce beautifully, infusing each bite with bold umami flavor. It’s a clever adaptation that keeps the spirit of the original while offering a practical alternative for busy weeknight dinners.
Nutritional Benefits of Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
This recipe isn’t just tasty—it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s what makes it a smart choice:
1. High in Protein
Ground beef is a great source of complete protein, which supports muscle growth and repair. One serving can provide up to 20–25 grams of protein depending on your portion size and lean-to-fat ratio of the beef used.
2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
- Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate. It’s also high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.
- Garlic and ginger, two staples in the sauce, offer anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Sesame oil and soy sauce, used in moderation, provide heart-healthy fats and antioxidants.
3. Low-Carb Option Available
While traditionally served with white rice, this dish is incredibly flexible. Swap in cauliflower rice or serve it as-is for a lower-carb, keto-friendly meal.
4. Gluten-Free Adaptation
Simply substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce and ensure your hoisin and oyster sauces are gluten-free. With these minor tweaks, this dish becomes accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
Why This Recipe is the Best
There are plenty of beef stir fry recipes out there, so why should you bookmark this one?
1. Speed and Simplicity
From fridge to table in under 30 minutes—this recipe is a lifesaver on busy evenings. Minimal chopping, one pan, and no fancy techniques required.
2. Pantry-Friendly Ingredients
The core ingredients (ground beef, broccoli, garlic, soy sauce) are probably already in your kitchen. Even the sauce can be made with just a few staples like soy sauce, hoisin, and oyster sauce—no need for exotic items or specialty store runs.
3. Crowd-Pleaser
Even picky eaters tend to love the bold flavors and hearty texture of this dish. It’s family-friendly and reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep or next-day leftovers.
4. Endless Customization
- Add carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra veggies.
- Spice it up with chili flakes or sriracha.
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for dietary variety.
Tips for Cooking the Perfect Stir Fry
1. Use High Heat
Stir fry dishes benefit from a hot pan, which allows ingredients to sear quickly and maintain texture. A cast iron skillet or wok is ideal.
2. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli
Keep the broccoli bright green and tender-crisp. Overcooking will turn it mushy and dull in flavor. A quick steam or sauté is all it needs.
3. Sauce Smartly
Mix your sauce ingredients in advance and add them all at once. This ensures the beef and broccoli are evenly coated and prevents burning or clumping.
4. Let the Sauce Thicken
Adding cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce quickly. Once added, stir constantly over heat for 1–2 minutes until glossy and thick.
Great Pairings for Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
- Jasmine or Basmati rice: Classic and aromatic options that absorb sauce well.
- Brown rice: Adds fiber and a slightly nutty flavor.
- Noodles: Lo mein or rice noodles work beautifully.
- Cauliflower rice: Keeps it light and low-carb.
Meal Prep and Storage
This dish is ideal for meal prep. Here’s how to get the most from your leftovers:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze: While fresh broccoli may lose some texture when thawed, you can freeze the cooked beef and sauce for up to 2 months.
Fun Variations You Can Try
- Teriyaki Style: Replace the hoisin and oyster sauce with teriyaki sauce and a dash of pineapple juice.
- Thai Twist: Add basil, fish sauce, and red chili for a spicy Thai-style stir fry.
- Korean Inspired: Stir in gochujang paste and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for Korean BBQ flair.
Conclusion
Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is the kind of meal that checks every box: fast, affordable, nutritious, and delicious. It honors the flavors of traditional Asian stir fry while simplifying the method for busy home cooks. Whether you’re feeding a family, cooking for one, or planning your meals for the week, this recipe delivers every time.