Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

A Quick, Flavorful, and Satisfying Meal

Ground beef and broccoli stir-fry is a simple, delicious, and budget-friendly dish that brings together the bold flavors of an Asian-inspired sauce with the heartiness of beef and the crunch of fresh broccoli. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together in under 30 minutes, requiring just a handful of pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – A perfect one-pan meal that’s ready in less than 30 minutes.
• Budget-friendly – Uses affordable ingredients while delivering big flavors.
• Healthy and protein-packed – A nutritious meal with lean beef and fiber-rich broccoli.
• Customizable – Easily adjust spice levels, add extra veggies, or swap out ingredients based on preference.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean recommended)
• 1 head of broccoli, cut into small florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ¼ cup water
• 1 teaspoon sriracha or red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water. Set aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

3. Add Aromatics

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Cook the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender. If needed, add a splash of water and cover the pan for 1-2 minutes to help steam the broccoli.

5. Add the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. If using sriracha or red pepper flakes, add them now.

6. Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy as is.

Variations

• Make it keto-friendly – Replace cornstarch with xanthan gum and serve over cauliflower rice.
• Use different proteins – Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu.
• Add more vegetables – Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can add more color and crunch.
• Gluten-free option – Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for best results. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second increments until heated through.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep broccoli from getting too soft?

To maintain a slight crunch, stir-fry the broccoli for just a few minutes and avoid overcooking. You can also blanch it in boiling water for 1 minute before adding it to the pan.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but let it thaw slightly and drain excess moisture before adding it to the pan to prevent sogginess.

What can I use instead of oyster sauce?

You can substitute oyster sauce with extra soy sauce and a teaspoon of brown sugar or use hoisin sauce for a similar flavor.

Can I double the sauce?

Absolutely! If you like extra sauce, simply double the sauce ingredients and adjust the thickness as needed.

Is this dish spicy?

Not by default, but you can add sriracha, red pepper flakes, or chili paste for heat.

What’s the best way to serve this dish?

Serve it over steamed white or brown rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the sauce and chop the broccoli in advance to save time. The dish itself also reheats well.

What type of beef should I use?

85% lean ground beef is ideal, but you can use 90% lean for a lower-fat option. If using fattier beef, drain excess grease.

Can I add eggs to this dish?

Yes! Scrambled eggs or a fried egg on top can add extra protein and flavor.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! Omit spicy ingredients and consider adding a little honey for a sweeter taste that kids will love.

Conclusion

Ground beef and broccoli stir-fry is a fast, flavorful, and versatile meal perfect for busy nights. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is a go-to option for a satisfying homemade dinner. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it to your taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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