Name: Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, thawed); 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated; 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred); 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar (or honey); 1/2 cup beef broth (or water); 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (to make slurry); Cooked white rice; Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish); Sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 86 reviews

If you are searching for a delicious and fuss-free weeknight meal, this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender ground beef with crispy broccoli florets, all blanketed in a rich garlic-ginger sauce that’s so satisfying you might just want to make it every night. This dish comes together quickly, is packed with flavor, and feels like a warm hug in a bowl—best of all, it’s way better than ordering takeout!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with ingredients neatly placed for a recipe. On the left is a fresh green broccoli stalk with visible florets. To the right, there is a piece of raw ground beef sitting on brown parchment paper, near a whole garlic bulb and a light brown ginger root. Above the beef are two glass jars with golden caps, one containing salt and the other black pepper. Nearby, a clear glass measuring cup holds a dark liquid, likely soy sauce. Below these, there is a small white plate with red chili flakes, another white plate with a golden liquid, possibly honey, and two clear glass bowls; one with brown sugar and the other with white powder that might be a starch. A whole yellow onion sits in the lower left corner next to the bowls, and a glass measuring cup with water is positioned next to the onion. The arrangement is clean and organized, with each item clearly visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Though this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe requires just a handful of simple ingredients, each one plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color.

1 lb ground beef: The hearty base providing rich flavor and protein.
4 cups broccoli florets: Adds crunch, vibrant green color, and nutrients.
2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil): For sautéing and enhancing the overall aroma.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant, savory depth that’s essential in stir-fries.
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated: Offers a gentle zing that lifts the dish beautifully.
1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred): Adds umami and saltiness to the sauce.
2 tbsp oyster sauce: Brings a sweet and savory complexity.
1 tbsp brown sugar (or honey): Balances flavors with a touch of natural sweetness.
1/2 cup beef broth (or water): To create the sauce’s delicious base and keep everything moist.
1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry): Thickens the sauce for that glossy, clingy finish.
Cooked white rice: Perfect for soaking up the sauce and making the meal complete.
Sesame seeds & sliced green onions (optional, for garnish): Adds toasted nuttiness and fresh bite at the end.

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating your oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook it until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If the beef releases too much fat, drain the excess to keep the stir-fry from getting greasy. This step builds the meaty foundation of your dish.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Ginger

Next, stir in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Cook them for about 30 seconds until you can’t resist their intoxicating aroma. These aromatics provide that classic Asian-inspired flavor punch that makes this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe so irresistible.

Step 3: Add Broccoli Florets

Now, add your broccoli florets to the pan. Whether you’re using fresh or thawed frozen, give them a good stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes. The goal is to keep their crispness while allowing them to soak up some of those wonderful flavors developing in the pan.

Step 4: Create the Savory Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth. Pour this mixture over the beef and broccoli. This savory sauce is what ties everything together, bringing a luscious, satisfying coating to every bite.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Finally, stir in the cornstarch slurry—a combination of cornstarch and water. Continue to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and perfectly clings to the beef and broccoli. This thickened sauce is exactly what turns a simple stir-fry into a crave-worthy meal.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Scoop the steaming Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry over cooked white rice while hot. This is the best way to enjoy every bit of the rich sauce and vibrant veggies.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe

A white plate holds a dish with a base layer of white rice, topped with a thick layer of cooked ground meat mixed with small pieces of onions and bright green broccoli florets scattered on top. Each element shows clear texture: the rice looks soft and fluffy, the meat layer is crumbly and mixed with sautéed onions, and the broccoli adds a fresh, slightly rough texture. A silver fork rests on the edge of the plate, placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions takes your dish from great to unforgettable. These simple garnishes add a layer of texture and fresh flavor that complements the stir-fry’s savory taste.

Side Dishes

If you want to round out your meal, pair this stir-fry with simple steamed jasmine rice or even cauliflower rice for a grain-free option. Lightly pickled vegetables or a crisp Asian cucumber salad make refreshing sides that balance the rich, hearty flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the stir-fry over crispy noodle nests or inside lettuce wraps. You can even use it as a filling for savory crepes or pancakes. These creative presentations can transform the meal into a novel dining experience perfect for impressing family or guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the rice and stir-fry separate to maintain the best textures.

Freezing

While the stir-fry can be frozen, the broccoli’s texture might soften upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, consider cooking extra beef mixture without broccoli and adding fresh vegetables after reheating to retain crispness.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Adding a splash of water or broth during reheating helps keep the sauce smooth and prevents the dish from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be swapped in for a leaner, lighter version of this stir-fry. The sauce remains just as flavorful, so feel free to customize based on your preference.

Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well here and is a great time-saver. Just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

How spicy is this recipe? Can I make it spicier?

The base recipe is mild and family-friendly. If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes, a splash of sriracha, or diced fresh chili when you’re cooking the garlic and ginger for a spicy kick.

What can I use instead of oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce on hand, you can substitute with hoisin sauce for sweetness or a combination of soy sauce and a splash of fish sauce to get a similar depth of flavor.

Can I prepare this stir-fry in advance for meal prep?

Definitely. This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is fantastic for meal prep. Store portions in airtight containers and reheat as desired, just be mindful that the broccoli may soften a bit over time.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is one of those meals that feels homemade but tastes like a restaurant special. It’s quick to prepare, packed with comforting flavors, and endlessly customizable. I encourage you to try it soon—you might find it becoming your new go-to dinner when you want something hearty, healthy, and utterly delicious.