If you’re searching for a simple, irresistible dinner that packs serious flavor in every bite, look no further than Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry. This dish is one of those weeknight wonders that tastes like a takeout treat but comes together quickly with everyday ingredients. Tender broccoli, savory beef, and a luscious honey garlic sauce mingle together for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is speedy to make. Whether you’re a stir-fry pro or new to quick skillet meals, this recipe will become a staple at your table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This stir-fry comes together with just a handful of pantry and fridge favorites. Every ingredient plays an important role, offering unique layers of taste or texture in Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry—don’t skip the garnishes, because they make every bowl truly pop!
- Sesame oil (or vegetable oil): A splash for stir-frying adds a nutty aroma and authentic flavor to the base.
- Ground beef: The heart of this dish—juicy, tender, and quick to cook for busy nights.
- Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen): Adds crunch, vibrant green color, and loads of nutrition; both fresh and frozen work beautifully.
- Garlic, minced: For that classic punchy flavor in every bite.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Brings savory depth and perfectly balances the honey’s sweetness.
- Honey: Adds a gorgeous glossy finish and a subtle sweet counterpoint to the savory elements.
- Rice vinegar: Just a touch for gentle tang—it brightens everything up.
- Cornstarch: Essential for thickening the sauce, so it clings deliciously to every morsel.
- Water: Helps loosen the sauce to the ideal consistency.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Turn up the heat if you like a little kick in your Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry.
- Cooked rice, for serving: Cushions all those bold flavors and soaks up every drop of sauce.
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish: A bright, fresh finish and irresistible crunch for both look and flavor.
How to Make Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Step 1: Mix the Sauce
Start by grabbing a small bowl and whisking together the low-sodium soy sauce, rich honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, water, and red pepper flakes if you crave a spicy kick. The goal here is a glossy, flavor-packed sauce that’ll tie the whole Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry together—set it aside for later, and get ready for some sizzle!
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and sauté until it crumbles and turns deeply golden, about 6 to 8 minutes. If there’s excess grease, go ahead and drain it off—this keeps things light and ensures the flavors are just right. Add minced garlic and sauté for an extra minute, releasing that mouthwatering aroma.
Step 3: Add the Broccoli
Toss in your broccoli florets and stir well to combine with the beef and garlic. Using fresh broccoli? Splash in a tablespoon of water and cover the pan to steam for a couple of minutes, just until it turns crisp-tender and vibrant green. If you’re going with thawed frozen broccoli, stir it in and let it heat through.
Step 4: Pour in the Sauce and Finish
Give your prepared sauce another quick stir, then pour it over the beef and broccoli. Stir everything together, and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes—watch as the sauce thickens and coats each bite with that irresistible sheen. Once everything’s glossy and bubbling, you’re just about ready to enjoy your Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Spoon the hot stir-fry over a generous scoop of freshly cooked rice for the full experience. Don’t forget to sprinkle on a flurry of sliced green onions and sesame seeds—the finishing touch that takes your dish from delicious to downright stunning.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Garnishes
Top your bowl with a shower of sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. These simple garnishes add freshness, crunch, and a pop of color, making your Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry look as good as it tastes. If you have toasted sesame oil on hand, a small drizzle at the very end is amazing too.
Side Dishes
This dish shines over fluffy jasmine or brown rice, but you can easily pair it with noodles for a little twist. Love extra veggies? A crisp cucumber salad or some quick pickled carrots on the side are bright, refreshing options that balance out the savory-sweet flavors of your stir-fry. A cup of miso soup or steamed edamame makes this meal feel extra special, even on a weeknight.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your dinner crowd, try spooning the Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry into lettuce cups for a fun, hands-on meal. Or serve it “deconstructed” on a platter: mound the rice, pile the stir-fry next to it, and let everyone assemble their bowls family-style. Plus, mini rice bowls are always adorable for appetizers or party spreads!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry keeps incredibly well in the fridge. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully, so leftovers can be even tastier the next day—just be sure to let everything cool before sealing.
Freezing
If you have extra or want to prep ahead, this stir-fry is freezer-friendly. Allow the cooked dish to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It’ll keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the tastiest results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave the stir-fry in short bursts, stirring occasionally so it heats evenly. Alternatively, warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. Serve over fresh, hot rice, and add a few fresh garnishes to bring everything back to life.
FAQs
Can I use another type Main Course
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work beautifully in this recipe—just be aware they’re a bit leaner, so you may want to add an extra drizzle of oil or a splash of broth to keep things juicy.
Is frozen broccoli okay, or does it have to be fresh?
Frozen broccoli is a great time-saver and works just as well as fresh in Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry. Just let it thaw a bit before adding so it reheats evenly and stays bright green.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, and double-check your other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free. Serve over a gluten-free grain like rice or quinoa, and you’re all set!
What vegetables can I add or substitute?
This recipe is super flexible. Try adding bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots for extra color and crunch. Just chop them to a similar size as the broccoli so they cook quickly with the beef.
Can I double the sauce if I like things extra saucy?
Of course! If you love every grain of rice coated, feel free to double the sauce ingredients. Just make sure to give it a minute longer to thicken up after adding to the pan, and enjoy that flavorful abundance.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry enough for anyone who craves quick, hearty, and truly delicious home-cooked dinners. It’s a wonderful way to bring everyone together at the table, without requiring hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and let it become a staple in your own weeknight line-up—you’re going to love each and every bite!
Print
Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Satisfy your cravings with this quick and flavorful Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry. Perfect for busy weeknights, this Asian-inspired dish is a delicious combination of savory beef, crisp broccoli, and a sweet and tangy sauce.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, water, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Heat sesame oil in a skillet, add ground beef, cook until browned. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add Broccoli: Stir in broccoli, steam if fresh, or add if frozen.
- Combine and Thicken: Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli, cook until thickened.
- Serve: Serve hot over rice, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Frozen broccoli works well—just thaw slightly before adding.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of fresh grated ginger to the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (without rice)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
