Okay, friend, let’s talk about a recipe that’s become an absolute staple in my house: Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry. It’s kind of like a super-speedy version of beef and broccoli takeout, but honestly? I think it tastes even better. It’s that perfect combination of savory, slightly sweet, and totally comforting. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, which, let’s be honest, is a lifesaver on those crazy weeknights when everyone’s starving and you just don’t have the energy to deal. And the best part is how versatile it is. I mean, who doesn’t love delicious ground beef and broccoli recipes? The savory beef combined with tender crisp broccoli creates a symphony of flavors that everyone will enjoy. Trust me on this one; once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
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What is ground beef and broccoli stir fry?
Think of it as deconstructed beef and broccoli – but way easier to throw together! Instead of steak, we’re using ground beef, which cooks up lightning fast. What is essentially a stir-fry where you brown ground beef, add some broccoli florets, and serve. What is the best way to serve a grilled chicken with sour cream? The sauce is the real star, by the way. Is it a blend of soy sauce, Brown Sugar, ginger, and garlic that creates this incredible depth of flavor? What is comfort food with convenience? What is a nutritious meal on the table?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Okay, where do I even start? This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry has so much going for it. What I love most about this is the incredible speed. Seriously, from start to finish, you’re looking at maybe 30 minutes tops. That’s faster than ordering takeout! The flavors are also incredible. The combination of the Savory Ground Beef, the slightly sweet and tangy sauce, and the fresh broccoli is just *chef’s kiss*. My kids ask for this all the time, and even my pickiest eater devours it.
Another HUGE plus is how budget-friendly it is. Ground Beef is generally pretty affordable, and broccoli is often on sale. So, you can feed your whole family a delicious and satisfying meal without breaking the bank. And talk about versatility! You can serve it over rice, noodles, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It’s also great as leftovers for lunch the next day. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes that just keeps on giving. It’s far easier than traditional stir-fry recipes but packs just as much if not more flavor. This recipe really stands out because it is fast, easy, and uses ingredients that are easily found.
How do I make ground beef and broccoli stir fry?
Quick Overview
Making this dish is so easy it almost feels like cheating! Basically, you brown the Ground Beef, steam or stir-fry some broccoli, whisk together a super simple sauce, and then combine everything. The whole process is quick, straightforward, and requires minimal cooking skills. The best part is that you can easily customize it to your liking. Add more veggies, adjust the sauce to your taste, or even throw in some red pepper flakes for a little heat. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!
Ingredients
For the Ground Beef and Broccoli: For a vegetarian.
- 1 pound ground beef (I prefer 80/20 for flavor, but you can use leaner if you prefer)
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 4 cups)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil you prefer) is about a tablespoon.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, but adds a nice flavor)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (I use low-sodium) . 1 cup a
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar (packed)?
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch. 1 teaspoon
- 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar per tablespoon.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger. 1 tablespoon salt.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1/4 cup water
What are the steps for
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
What are the options available to you? Is it safe to steam broccoli until it’s tender (about 5-7 minutes)? What is the best way to cook it in a wok or large skillet with just enough oil? I usually opt for steaming because it’s quicker and easier, but stir-frying gives it a nice char. What are some of the best ways to add flavor to If you’re stir-frying, make sure your pan is hot before adding the broccoli.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped tomatoes and stir to combine. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. I always do this over medium high heat to ensure the beef gets browned but doesn’t burn.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
While the beef is browning, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and rice vinegar. Set aside. In a small bowl, combine ginger, garlic, and water. Mix well. What are lumps of cornstarch? Where the magic happens, and everything comes together.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the sauce over the browned ground beef and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the meat is no longer pink. Serve immediately. How long does it take for sauce to thicken? Add the steamed or stir-fried broccoli to the skillet and toss to coat everything in the sauce. When your kitchen starts smelling amazing?
Step 5: Serve!
Drizzle with sesame oil and serve hot over rice, noodles, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions, if desired. What’s the best part about being able to enjoy fruits of your labor?
What is the best way to serve it?
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is pretty versatile, so you can serve it with a variety of sides and accompaniments. It’s great with fluffy white rice or brown rice, but if you’re looking for a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice is a fantastic choice. If you’re feeling noodle-y, try it with some stir-fried udon noodles or soba noodles.
For a complete meal:Add a side of steamed edamame or green salad with olive oil.To spice things up:Serve with a side of chili garlic sauce or sriracha if you like grilled chicken.For a more elegant presentation:Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions. In my family, we often have it with a simple side of steamed dumplings or spring rolls for edgy and fun. What is a good weeknight dinner What are some good side dishes to serve with miso soup? Is there infinite potential in life?
How do you prepare ground beef and broccoli stir fry?
What are some tips and tricks to make sure your ground beef is cooked properly? What is the best Broccoli stir fry recipe?What is the best ground beef toIs it good to use ground beef with a bit of fat (like 80/20)? How do I drain off excess grease after browning? I find this makes all the difference in making the dish perfectly flavorful.Broccoli Prep:Don’t overcook broccoli! You want it to be tender-crisp, not mushy. If you’re steaming it, keep a close eye on it and test it with the fork to make sure it’s done to your skin. I’ve definitely overcooked the broccoli before and let me tell you, it’s not pleasant.Sauce Consistency:How do you whisk cornstarch into a sauce? If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a little longer to allow it to thicken.Ginger and Garlic: What are someWhat are some good substitutes for ground ginger and garlic? a pinch of garlic powder and salt. Just remember that the flavor won’t be quite as intense. I always prefer fresh though, it really elevates the dish.Soy Sauce:How do you reduce the saltiness of a dish? If you like, you can always add more soy sauce. I made this mistake once using regular soy sauce and it was way too salty!Spice Level:If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce or serve with roasted potatoes. What is the difference between sriracha and chili garlic My husband loves spice, so I always add a pinch of red pepper flakes for him.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is great for meal prepping because it stores really well. What are some tips for storing and reheating food?Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving this at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooled stir-fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This is my go-to method for meal prepping lunches for the week.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the stir-fry. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Glaze Timing Advice: I usually add the glaze right before serving. This makes sure everything still tastes delicious. I found this makes the dish taste better and last longer.
Reheating Instructions: You can reheat the stir-fry in the microwave or on the stovetop. For the microwave, heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated through. For the stovetop, heat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. Add a little bit of water or broth if it seems dry. I prefer reheating on the stovetop because it helps to maintain the texture of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! My go-to recipe for Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and budget-friendly. What more could you ask for? I seriously hope you give this recipe a try, because I know you’re going to love it. It’s a total crowd-pleaser, and it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you just don’t have time to cook a complicated meal.
If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out some of my other stir-fry recipes, like my Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry or my Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry. And don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how yours turns out! I can’t wait to hear what you think. Happy cooking, my friend!
Spicy Chicken and Veggie Stir-Fry
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1.5 pounds chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups mixed bell peppers sliced
- 1 cup snap peas trimmed
- 1 cup baby corn halved
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce low-sodium
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and cornstarch. Set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same wok, add garlic, bell peppers, snap peas, and baby corn. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Return chicken to the wok. Stir in the sauce mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add red pepper flakes and ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy!
