Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Some nights, all I want is a fast, comforting meal that’s full of flavor and doesn’t leave a mountain of dishes.

This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is one of my favorite go-tos—loaded with tender-crisp broccoli, sweet-salty sauce, and juicy beef, all spooned over steamy rice. It’s takeout vibes at home, made easy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

All-in-one skillet meal – Meat, veggies, and sauce in one pan.

Better than takeout – Fresh ingredients and no mystery oils.

Saucy and satisfying – That glossy garlic-ginger glaze hits every time.

Family-friendly – Easy to adjust the sweetness or spice.

Done in 30 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Ground beef – Lean and flavorful, browns quickly for fast meals.

Broccoli florets – A classic stir-fry veggie that stays vibrant.

Red bell pepper – Adds color and natural sweetness.

Garlic & ginger – Build that bold, classic stir-fry aroma.

Soy sauce & beef broth – Salty and savory base for the sauce.

Brown sugar & honey – For sweetness and balance.

Cornstarch slurry – Helps thicken the sauce into a silky coating.

Toasted sesame oil – Deepens flavor with nutty richness.

Cooked rice – The perfect base for soaking up the sauce.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Dry the broccoli – Helps it sear instead of steam.

Don’t overcook the peppers – A quick toss keeps them crisp.

Make the slurry first – So it’s ready to go when the sauce needs thickening.

Use cold water for the slurry – Prevents clumping.

Taste the sauce – Adjust honey or soy to balance sweet/salty to your liking.

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Step 1: Prep the Sauce

In a small container, shake together cornstarch and cold water.

In a separate bowl, whisk beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, honey, and sesame oil.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Heat peanut oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add broccoli and cook 4–5 minutes until slightly softened. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef and diced onion to the skillet.

Season lightly with salt and white pepper.

Cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease.

Step 4: Add Bell Peppers

Stir in sliced red bell pepper and sauté for 1 minute to keep it crisp.

Step 5: Simmer the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet.

Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Shake and pour in the cornstarch slurry, stirring as you add it.

Let the sauce bubble and thicken until glossy.

Step 7: Return the Broccoli

Reduce heat to low.

Stir broccoli back into the skillet until everything is coated and heated through.

Step 8: Serve

Spoon over cooked rice and garnish with green onions if desired. Serve hot.

What to Serve It With

Steamed jasmine or basmati rice

Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option

Chili crisp or Sriracha on the side

Pickled cucumbers or quick kimchi

Egg rolls or spring rolls for extra crunch

Variations / Substitutions

Swap ground beef – Try ground turkey or chicken.

Add more veggies – Mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots work great.

Make it spicy – Stir in chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Low-sugar version – Reduce brown sugar or skip the honey.

No beef broth? – Use chicken broth or even water with extra soy sauce.

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheat – Warm in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Freeze – Cool completely, then freeze in meal portions for up to 2 months.

Repurpose – Use leftovers in lettuce wraps or spooned into rice bowls.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but thaw and dry it well before cooking to avoid steaming.

What can I substitute for cornstarch?
Arrowroot or tapioca starch works well as thickeners too.

How do I make this low sodium?
Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth, and taste before adding salt.

Can I meal prep this?
Absolutely—it reheats beautifully and makes great weekday lunches.

Is white pepper necessary?
Not required, but it adds a mild, earthy spice that works great here.

Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground?
Yes—use about 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger for a more vibrant flavor.

Do I need to serve this with rice?
Not at all—try noodles, quinoa, or even lettuce wraps for variety.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is one of those effortless meals I never get tired of.

It’s got that perfect saucy, savory comfort with just enough sweetness and crunch to keep every bite exciting.

It’s easy, flexible, and far more satisfying than takeout.