This honey garlic ground beef and broccoli skillet has become one of my go-to weeknight dinners—quick, flavorful, and always satisfying.
The first time I made it, I was blown away by how the sauce clings to every bite of beef and broccoli, balancing sweet, salty, and garlicky notes.
It’s the kind of dish that turns simple ingredients into something special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sweet, savory, and garlicky – a homemade sauce that hits every note.
One-pan magic – fewer dishes, faster cleanup.
Family-friendly – kids love it just as much as adults.
Ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for busy nights.
Flexible – great over rice, quinoa, or noodles.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ground beef – Lean beef gives a hearty base to absorb all that delicious sauce.
Broccoli florets – Crisp-tender and perfect for soaking up flavor.
Onion & garlic – For bold, aromatic flavor.
Honey – Adds just the right touch of sweetness.
Soy sauce – Go for low-sodium to keep it balanced.
Rice vinegar & ginger – Brings brightness and depth.
Cornstarch slurry – Helps the sauce thicken beautifully.
Optional toppings – Sesame seeds and green onions add texture and freshness.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Cut broccoli into small, uniform florets for even cooking.
Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry—it gives the sauce that glossy, restaurant-style texture.
Want more heat? Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Leftovers are amazing—this reheats well for next-day lunches.
How to Make Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli
Step 1. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes if using.
In another cup, mix cornstarch with water to create a smooth slurry. Set both aside.
Step 2. Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft.
Add ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up as it browns.
Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3. Steam the Broccoli
Add broccoli florets to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef.
Pour in a splash of water, cover, and steam for about 3–4 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
Step 4. Add the Sauce
Give the sauce a quick stir and pour it into the skillet.
Stir everything to coat evenly.
Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the ingredients.
Step 5. Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and let it rest briefly.
Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Top with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
What to Serve It With
I love this dish over jasmine rice, but it’s also amazing with brown rice, garlic noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
A side of pickled veggies or a simple cucumber salad adds freshness.
Variations / Substitutions
Protein swap – Try ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based crumbles.
Veggie boost – Add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas with the broccoli.
Low-carb option – Serve over riced cauliflower or steamed cabbage.
Extra savory – A splash of sesame oil or fish sauce adds umami depth.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
It also freezes well—just thaw and reheat when ready.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just thaw it first and reduce the steaming time.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. It reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check labels to ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes—use crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground beef substitute.
Do I have to use honey?
Maple syrup or brown sugar can be swapped in a pinch.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger pan or cook in batches.
Final Thoughts
This honey garlic ground beef and broccoli recipe is proof that a few pantry staples can come together to create something cozy and craveable.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want something easy and satisfying, this one-skillet dinner delivers every time.
Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients
Method
- Whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
- Mix cornstarch and water in a separate cup to make a slurry.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
- Stir in broccoli and ¼ cup water.
- Cover and steam for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/honey-garlic-ground-beef-and-broccoli/
