You already know my love for quick and flavorful meals, and there’s nothing better than a stir-fry that’s both easy and satisfying—especially on busy weeknights! This Easy Ground Beef Broccoli Recipe is a simple, budget-friendly dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. With tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory homemade sauce, it delivers that takeout-style flavor without the extra cost or hassle.
I love how versatile this recipe is—you can serve it over rice, toss it with noodles, or keep it low-carb with a simple swap. Plus, making it at home means you control the ingredients and flavors to suit your taste. So why order takeout when you can whip up a fresh and delicious meal in no time? Let’s get cooking!
For more quick and tasty dinner ideas, try my Chicken Cutlets in Oven—a crispy, flavorful alternative to this ground beef broccoli stir-fry!
Why You’ll Love Ground Beef Broccoli Recipe
If there’s one thing I love, it’s a meal that checks all the right boxes—quick, easy, delicious, and budget-friendly! This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is exactly that. Whether you’re whipping up a last-minute dinner or planning ahead for meal prep, this recipe has you covered.
- Dinner in a Flash: Ready in just 30 minutes, so you can spend less time cooking and more time eating. Win-win!
- Easy on the Wallet: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. No fancy stuff required!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Picky eaters? No problem! This dish is loaded with flavor, and you can easily tweak it to suit everyone’s taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch—because we all know stir-fry tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients Needed for Ground Beef Broccoli Recipe
This recipe keeps things simple with pantry staples, fresh ingredients, and a sauce that’s pure magic. But the best part? You can easily customize it to fit your taste (or whatever you have in the fridge)!
Main Ingredients:
- Ground beef – The star of the show! I recommend using lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) for the best texture and less grease.
- Broccoli – Fresh is best for that perfect crunch, but frozen works in a pinch (just thaw and drain well).
- Onion – Adds depth and sweetness. Yellow or white onions work best, but shallots can be a fancy swap.
- Garlic & Ginger – The dream team for big, bold flavors. Freshly minced is ideal, but pre-minced or powdered can work too.
- Soy sauce – Brings the umami and saltiness we love in a good stir-fry. Use low-sodium if needed!
- Cooking oil – Any neutral oil works (vegetable, canola, avocado, or sesame oil).
Sauce Ingredients:
- Oyster sauce – Adds a deep, savory sweetness. No oyster sauce? Hoisin or a touch of brown sugar can help!
- Sesame oil – A little goes a long way for that signature nutty aroma.
- Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce and coat everything beautifully. No cornstarch? Try arrowroot powder!
- Beef broth or water – Helps balance the sauce’s richness.
Substitutions & Variations:
- Make it keto-friendly – Swap the cornstarch for xanthan gum and serve with cauliflower rice.
- Switch up the protein – Ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu all work great!
- Turn up the heat – Add chili flakes, sriracha, or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Making this dish is as easy as 1-2-3… well, actually 5 steps—but trust me, they’re all super simple! Follow along, and you’ll have a delicious, takeout-style meal in no time.
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets (because no one likes wrestling with giant pieces!).
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic and ginger—fresh is best for that bold, aromatic flavor!
- Whisk together the sauce: soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, beef broth, and cornstarch in a small bowl.
Step 2: Blanch or Steam the Broccoli
- Blanching Method: Boil for 1–2 minutes, then dunk in ice water. This locks in the vibrant green color!
- Steaming Method: Pop it in a steamer for a couple of minutes until just fork-tender.
- Shortcut Alert! If you’re feeling lazy (no judgment!), microwaving with a splash of water works too.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef & Onion
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
- Toss in the ground beef and break it up as it browns.
- Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan! Let the beef develop some color instead of steaming.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Add the Garlic, Ginger & Sauce
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan with the beef. Stir and cook for 30 seconds (until fragrant).
- Give your sauce mixture a quick stir (the cornstarch settles at the bottom!) and pour it into the pan.
- Stir constantly so everything gets coated evenly.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 1–2 minutes until it thickens.
- If the sauce looks too thin → Let it simmer a little longer to thicken.
- If the sauce gets too thick → Add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
Step 5: Add the Broccoli & Serve
- Toss the broccoli back in and stir until everything is coated in that delicious sauce.
- Give it a taste—does it need a little extra soy sauce or spice? Adjust as needed!
- Serve it up over rice, noodles, or keep it low-carb with cauliflower rice.
Tips & Tricks for Simple Ground Beef Broccoli Recipe
Want to make your Ground Beef and Broccoli absolutely chef’s kiss? 😘 Here are some easy tricks to take it from “yum” to YUM!
Choose the Right Ground Beef
Not all beef is created equal!
- Lean ground beef (90/10 or 85/15): Less grease, cleaner flavors.
- Fattier ground beef (80/20): Juicier, but you might need to drain excess fat.
- Pro Tip: If using fatty beef, let it brown undisturbed for a minute before stirring—hello, crispy golden bits!
Keep Broccoli Crisp-Tender
Nobody likes sad, mushy broccoli! Here’s how to keep it vibrant and crunchy:
- Blanch it quickly (boil for 1–2 minutes, then shock in ice water).
- Steam it lightly—just until it turns bright green.
- Add it at the end so it doesn’t overcook in the sauce.
Boost the Sauce for Extra Flavor
The sauce is the heart of this dish, so let’s make it sing!
- Incorporate a dash of rice vinegar or lime juice to enhance the flavor.
- A drizzle of honey or brown sugar balances the umami flavors.
- Love spice? Sriracha, chili flakes, or even a dash of gochujang will do the trick!
Avoid a Watery Stir-Fry
If your stir-fry is swimming instead of sizzling, here’s what to do:
- Pat your broccoli dry before adding it to the pan.
- Let the beef sear—don’t stir too much in the beginning.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer for an extra minute to thicken. Too thick? A splash of broth or water saves the day.
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli
This stir-fry is already a winner, but let’s be honest—it needs a sidekick! Whether you’re craving something hearty, light, or low-carb, I’ve got you covered.
Rice: The Classic Choice
- White rice – The OG stir-fry companion, fluffy and perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.
- Brown rice – A wholesome option with a little extra chew.
- Cauliflower rice – All the stir-fry goodness, minus the carbs!
Noodles: Because Why Not?
- Lo mein – Slurp-worthy and soaks up sauce like a dream.
- Rice noodles – Light, chewy, and naturally gluten-free.
- Ramen or spaghetti – No lo mein? No problem! Use whatever you have on hand.
Low-Carb Swaps (Still Delicious!)
- Zucchini noodles (zoodles) – Light, fresh, and perfect for keeping it keto-friendly.
- Lettuce wraps – Spoon the beef and broccoli into crisp lettuce leaves for a fun, crunchy twist!
Storage & Leftovers for Ground Beef Broccoli Recipe
Let’s talk about making the most of your delicious ground beef and broccoli! Whether you’re meal prepping or saving leftovers for later, here’s how to keep everything fresh and tasty.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent excess moisture buildup. When ready to eat, reheat gently in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it from drying out.
Freezing: This dish freezes surprisingly well! Let it cool down, then move it to a container suitable for the freezer. It will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove for the best texture.
Creative Leftover Ideas:
- Turn it into a stir-fry bowl by adding scrambled eggs and extra veggies.
- Use it as a filling for lettuce wraps or tortillas.
- Mix it into cooked rice for a quick homemade fried rice.
Ground Beef Broccoli Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef 85/15 or 90/10
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets or 3 cups frozen, thawed
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1- inch piece of fresh ginger minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce low-sodium if preferred
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil vegetable, canola, avocado, or sesame oil
Sauce Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce or hoisin sauce as a substitute
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
Substitutions & Variations:
- Keto-friendly: Replace cornstarch with xanthan gum and serve with cauliflower rice.
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey chicken, or crumbled tofu.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes sriracha, or hot sauce.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic and ginger.
- Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, beef broth, and cornstarch in a small bowl.
Step 2: Blanch or Steam the Broccoli
- Blanch: Boil broccoli for 1–2 minutes, then transfer to ice water to lock in the color.
- Steam: Steam for 2–3 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Shortcut: Microwave with a splash of water until tender.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef & Onion
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add diced onion and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up as it browns.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Add the Garlic, Ginger & Sauce
- Add minced garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir the sauce mixture and pour it into the pan, stirring constantly to coat.
- Simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Add the Broccoli & Serve
- Add the cooked broccoli and toss everything to coat with the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with soy sauce or spice to taste.
- Serve over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Notes
- Lean Ground Beef: For the best texture and less grease, use lean ground beef.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
- Adjust Spice: Add more sriracha or chili flakes for an extra spicy kick.
If you enjoy this recipe, please leave a rating and a comment below! We’d appreciate any tips or photos of your results. Thank you for being part of our community! 🙂
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Broccoli Recipe
What is the sauce for broccoli beef made of?
The sauce for broccoli beef is typically made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and sometimes a touch of sugar for sweetness. It also includes garlic, ginger, and cornstarch to thicken the sauce and create a smooth texture. This combination creates a savory, umami-rich flavor profile.
How to make delicious beef and broccoli?
To make delicious beef and broccoli, start by blanching or steaming the broccoli to keep it tender yet crisp. Then, stir-fry the beef with garlic, ginger, and a savory sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Combine everything in the pan until evenly coated for a flavorful dish.
Is beef and broccoli healthy for you?
Beef and broccoli can be a healthy option when made with lean cuts of beef and served with vegetables. It’s a good source of protein, iron, and vitamins from the broccoli. Just be mindful of the sauce, as it can sometimes be high in sodium and sugar.
How to make a good sauce for stir-fry?
A good stir-fry sauce is typically made with a balance of salty (soy sauce), sweet (sugar or honey), and umami flavors (oyster sauce or hoisin sauce). Add a little cornstarch to thicken the sauce and ensure it coats the ingredients evenly. Fresh garlic, ginger, and sesame oil can enhance the flavor profile.
How do you thicken beef and broccoli?
To thicken beef and broccoli, you can add cornstarch to the sauce mixture. Mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then add it to the sauce while stirring. This will help the sauce cling to the beef and broccoli, giving the dish a nice glossy texture.
What sauce for beef stir-fry?
For beef stir-fry, a simple sauce often includes soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar. Some variations also include garlic, ginger, and hoisin sauce for added depth of flavor. This combination creates a savory, sweet, and umami-rich sauce that complements beef perfectly.
What is the secret ingredient in stir-fry?
The secret ingredient in many stir-fries is sesame oil. It adds a nutty, aromatic flavor that elevates the dish and balances the savory ingredients. A touch of cornstarch in the sauce also helps achieve a smooth, glossy texture that coats the ingredients well.
What can I add to beef to make it taste better?
To enhance the flavor of beef, consider marinating it with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a little sesame oil for a deeper flavor profile. Adding a touch of sugar or honey helps balance the savory and umami flavors. For added complexity, you can also use spices like black pepper or chili flakes.
What is a substitute for Chinese brown bean sauce?
A good substitute for Chinese brown bean sauce is a combination of hoisin sauce and soy sauce. If you want a closer match to the earthy flavor, you can also use miso paste or black bean paste. Adjust sweetness and saltiness to taste based on your preferences.
What is oyster sauce made of?
Oyster sauce is made from oyster extract, soy sauce, sugar, and a thickening agent like cornstarch. It has a rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavor, making it a staple in many Asian dishes. The oyster extract gives the sauce its distinctive umami depth.
What is a substitute for oyster sauce?
A good substitute for oyster sauce is hoisin sauce or mushroom soy sauce, which both provide a similar balance of savory and sweet flavors. For a vegetarian option, try using a mushroom-based oyster sauce alternative or a mixture of soy sauce and a touch of sugar.