Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: The Ultimate Stir Fry Recipe
Introduction to Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
If you’re looking for a quick and nutritious meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry. Packed with protein and vegetables, this dish is not only satisfying but also easy to whip up in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights, this stir fry combines tender ground beef with crisp broccoli and a savory sauce, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
A Personal Story Behind My Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Journey
Growing up, I remember my mom making stir fry for dinner on busy weeknights. It was one of those meals that could come together quickly, yet it always felt special. The combination of vibrant vegetables and savory beef was a hit at our dinner table. As I grew older, I learned to make my version of this classic dish, and it has become a staple in my own home. Sharing this recipe feels like passing down a cherished family tradition, and I hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought me.
What Makes This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and the ability to customize it based on what you have on hand. The sauce is a wonderful blend of savory and sweet, enhanced by the flavors of garlic and ginger. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy greens without anyone noticing! Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this stir fry is approachable and delivers delicious results every time.
The Full Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable/olive oil)
- 3 cups broccoli florets, washed and dried
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Cornstarch Mixture: In a covered container, combine cornstarch and cold water. Shake well to mix and set aside for later use.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, mix together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and toasted sesame oil. Start with 1 tablespoon of honey and adjust to your taste at the end.
- Cook the Broccoli: Heat the peanut oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until they are slightly softened. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: In the same pan, season the ground beef with salt and white pepper. Add the diced onions and cook over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Toss in the sliced red bell pepper and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture into the pan with the beef and onions. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Gradually stir in the cornstarch mixture until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
- Combine with Broccoli: Lower the heat, add the cooked broccoli back into the pan, and stir everything together until heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve the stir fry hot over cooked rice.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed rice, but feel free to get creative! You can serve it over quinoa or noodles for a different twist. If you want to add more vegetables, consider adding snap peas, carrots, or bell peppers. For a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or serve with sriracha on the side. This stir fry is versatile enough to suit any palate!
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground beef, you can easily substitute it with chicken, turkey, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Is this dish gluten-free? To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
Note: For perfect rice, follow my process in the notes section of the original recipe.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per Serving: 450
Servings: 4
Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Equipment
- Large Pan For cooking the stir fry
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil or vegetable/olive oil
- 3 cups broccoli florets washed and dried
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper sliced
- salt to taste
- white pepper to taste
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 4 soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar packed
- 1 tablespoon honey or to taste
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
For Serving
- 3 cups cooked rice
Instructions
- Combine cornstarch and water in a covered container, shake to mix, and set aside.
- Mix all sauce ingredients in a medium bowl, starting with 1 tablespoon of honey, and adjust sweetness at the end.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add broccoli and cook for 4-5 minutes until slightly softened. Remove and set aside.
- Season beef with salt and white pepper. Cook beef and onions over medium-high heat until browned. Add bell peppers and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the sauce mixture, bring to a boil, then simmer for 2-3 minutes. Slowly stir in the cornstarch mixture until the desired thickness is reached.
- Reduce heat, add broccoli back to the pan, stir to combine, and heat through.
- Garnish with green onions and serve over rice.