Quick & Easy Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Fast, flavorful, and family-friendly, this honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry is the ultimate weeknight meal. With just one pan and under 30 minutes, you get a savory-sweet dish packed with protein, tender-crisp veggies, and a glossy sauce that clings to every bite.

This stir-fry draws inspiration from classic Asian flavors — soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and a touch of honey — but swaps out sliced beef for budget-friendly ground beef. It’s a streamlined version of beef and broccoli that delivers all the comfort with none of the fuss.

Whether served over rice, noodles, or on its own, this dish satisfies cravings for takeout while being quick enough for busy nights.

Ingredients Overview

Each component of this dish contributes to its balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Here’s a closer look:

Ground Beef

• Why it works: Quick to cook, easy to season, and ideal for soaking up bold stir-fry sauces.

• Lean or regular: Use 85–90% lean for a balance of flavor and less grease. Drain excess fat if needed.

• Alternatives: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles can be swapped in.

Broccoli

• Texture: Brings a satisfying crunch and bright green color.

• Fresh or frozen: Fresh florets give the best texture, but frozen can be used — just steam and drain first.

• Substitutes: Broccolini, snap peas, or bell peppers work well for variety.

Honey Garlic Sauce

A bold, balanced glaze made with:

• Soy Sauce: Brings umami and saltiness. Use low-sodium to control seasoning.

• Honey: Adds natural sweetness and thickens the sauce when cooked.

• Garlic: A key flavor — fresh minced garlic is essential for depth.

• Ginger (Optional): Freshly grated ginger brightens the sauce and adds subtle heat.

• Cornstarch Slurry: Helps create that glossy, takeout-style finish.

Aromatics & Extras

• Green Onions: Stirred in at the end for freshness.

• Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle at the finish adds nutty aroma.

• Crushed Red Pepper: Optional, for heat lovers.

Serving Base

• Rice: White, brown, or jasmine rice pairs beautifully.

• Noodles: Ramen, rice noodles, or lo mein noodles work for a twist.

• Low-carb: Cauliflower rice or steamed zucchini noodles for a lighter option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 3 tablespoons honey

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (optional)

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (set aside for later)

Set the sauce mixture aside. This will be added near the end to glaze the beef and broccoli.

2. Cook the Broccoli

In a large nonstick skillet or wok, add a splash of water and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli florets, cover, and steam for 2–3 minutes until just tender and bright green.

Remove the broccoli and set aside. Wipe the pan dry if needed.

3. Brown the Beef

Add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet and heat over medium-high. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully browned — about 5–7 minutes.

Drain excess grease if necessary. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.

4. Add Sauce and Broccoli

Stir in the soy-honey-garlic mixture and bring to a simmer. Once bubbling, add the cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens and glazes the beef.

Return the broccoli to the pan and toss everything together until well coated.

5. Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in chopped green onions and a small drizzle of sesame oil. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

Serve immediately over warm rice, noodles, or your favorite base.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Cooking Tips

• High heat is key: Stir-fries are best cooked hot and fast to keep ingredients crisp and vibrant.

• Cut broccoli evenly: Uniform florets cook faster and look better on the plate.

• Don’t skip garlic: It’s the backbone of the sauce — use fresh for best results.

Variations

• Add veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, shredded carrots, or edamame can bulk it up.

• Sweet & spicy: Add chili garlic sauce or sriracha for a spicy-sweet kick.

• Ginger-forward: Use more fresh ginger for a zesty, aromatic version.

Substitutions

• Soy-Free: Use coconut aminos or tamari.

• Honey-Free: Maple syrup or brown sugar can be used, though honey’s texture is ideal.

• Vegetarian: Use crumbled tofu or a soy-based ground meat substitute.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This stir-fry fits beautifully into a range of meals:

• Weeknight dinners: Done in under 30 minutes — perfect for last-minute cooking.

• Meal prep: Make a big batch and portion into containers with rice for grab-and-go lunches.

• Family meals: Kid-friendly and easy to customize.

• Quick dinner parties: Serve with steamed dumplings and a cucumber salad for a fast, themed meal.

Pair with sparkling water with lime, iced jasmine tea, or a light beer for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish offers a well-rounded macro profile:

• Protein: Ground beef delivers around 20–25g per serving.

• Fiber & Vitamins: Broccoli provides fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.

• Carbs: Honey and rice add natural carbohydrates for energy.

• Fat: Keep it balanced by using lean beef and minimal oil.

To make it even more health-forward, serve over cauliflower rice or reduce the honey slightly. You can also add extra vegetables to boost volume and nutrients.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli?

A1: Yes. Steam or microwave frozen broccoli until just tender, then drain and pat dry before adding to the stir-fry to prevent sogginess.

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Q2: What ground meats can I substitute?

A2: Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or plant-based options all work well. Each brings a slightly different flavor and texture, but the sauce complements them all.

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Q3: How do I store and reheat leftovers?

A3: Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

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Q4: Can I make it spicy?

A4: Absolutely. Add chili flakes, sriracha, or chili garlic sauce directly to the sauce mix or as a garnish to dial up the heat.

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Q5: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A5: It can be. Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and double-check that your cornstarch and other condiments are certified gluten-free.

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Q6: Can I double the recipe?

A6: Yes, but be sure to use a large enough pan or cook the beef and broccoli in batches to avoid overcrowding and steaming.

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Q7: Does this freeze well?

A7: Yes. Freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

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