If you’re searching for a dinner that balances sweet, savory, and a little touch of heat, you’ll fall head over heels for Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry. This is one of those magical one-pan meals that combines hearty ground beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a glossy, garlicky sauce that clings to every bite. Whether you’re racing through a busy weeknight or just want to treat yourself, this dish delivers incredible flavor and all the comfort of takeout—right at home!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Building amazing flavor doesn’t require a pantry full of exotic ingredients—just a handful of simple, familiar staples expertly combined. Each item plays an irreplaceable role in making this Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry truly unforgettable, from succulent beef to sweet honey and punchy soy sauce.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Rich and savory, it absorbs all the delicious flavors from the sauce and cooks up fast.
- Broccoli florets (3 cups): Adds vibrant color, essential crunch, and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Vegetable oil, divided (2 tablespoons): Ensures the stir-fry sizzles without sticking, giving everything a lovely sear.
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves): The aromatic backbone of the dish, infusing every bite with crave-worthy depth.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/4 cup): Makes the sauce savory while letting the other flavors shine—plus, easy on the salt.
- Honey (3 tablespoons): Natural sweetness that balances the garlic and soy sauce, creating that signature craveable glaze.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brightens the sauce with just enough tang to keep things lively.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Magic thickener—turning the sauce silky and luxuriously clingy.
- Water (1/4 cup): Helps dissolve the cornstarch and creates just the right consistency.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Lends a gentle kick for anyone who loves a hint of heat.
- Green onions, sliced (2): Sprinkle on at the end for color and a little fresh bite.
- Cooked white or brown rice (for serving): The perfect base to soak up every drop of that glorious sauce.
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional): Adds a nutty crunch and a pretty finish to your bowl.
How to Make Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Step 1: Mix the Sauce
Start things off by whisking together your low-sodium soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, water, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. This simple mix is the heart of our Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry—it comes together in seconds but packs major flavor. Set this aside, and you’re already halfway to something special!
Step 2: Sauté the Broccoli
Grab your largest skillet or wok and heat up a tablespoon of oil over medium-high. Toss in those vibrant broccoli florets, giving them a good stir so they cook evenly. In about 4–5 minutes, you’ll be rewarded with broccoli that’s bright green and perfectly tender-crisp—just the way you want it for that ideal stir-fry texture. Set the broccoli aside so it doesn’t overcook.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the remaining oil to the same pan and toss in your ground beef. Let it sizzle and break it up with a spatula until it’s browned and no pink remains—usually 6–7 minutes does the trick. If there’s extra fat, drain it off, then stir in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant. This quick step adds irresistible depth and makes your kitchen smell amazing!
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Now the magic happens. Return the sautéed broccoli to the skillet, then pour in your honey garlic sauce. Give everything a big stir, making sure the sauce coats every nook and cranny. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the sauce thickens and transforms into that glossy, sticky glaze we all love in a classic Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
As soon as your stir-fry is glossy and delicious, remove it from the heat. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and a handful of sesame seeds if you want a little extra crunch and flair. Scoop everything over fluffy rice, gather your loved ones, and prepare for a chorus of happy sighs!
How to Serve Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Garnishes
A handful of fresh garnishes instantly makes this dish pop. Scatter sliced green onions across the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds nutty crunch and Instagram-worthy appeal. If you’re feeling bold, a light dusting of extra red pepper flakes brings extra excitement to each bite.
Side Dishes
Steamed or fried rice is an absolute classic, but don’t stop there! Try pairing your Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with simple sautéed snow peas, roasted edamame, or even a crisp Asian-inspired slaw. These easy sides balance the richness of the stir-fry and make your meal feel truly special.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl! For a party-ready platter, serve the stir-fry in lettuce cups for a fresh, hands-on twist. Spoon it over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option, or tuck it inside whole wheat wraps for a delicious lunch on the go. The sweet-savory flavors of Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry play nicely with all sorts of creative presentations!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You’ll be thrilled to know this stir-fry keeps beautifully in the fridge. Simply transfer leftovers to an airtight container, and they’ll stay flavorful and fresh for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, but the bold flavors remain just as vibrant.
Freezing
Want to enjoy Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry on a future busy night? Cool the stir-fry completely and store it in freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to two months. For best results, freeze rice and stir-fry separately so the textures stay just right when thawed.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave individual portions (add a splash of water if you want to loosen the sauce) or gently warm everything in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. This ensures the dish stays moist and the flavors revive perfectly, ready for another fantastic meal.
FAQs
Can I use another protein instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work beautifully if you want a leaner option. You can even try ground pork or a plant-based meat alternative, keeping all that incredible honey-garlic flavor front and center.
Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can substitute frozen broccoli florets in a pinch. Just add them straight to the pan from frozen, and sauté until heated through and tender. They might release a bit more moisture but will still soak up all that savory-sweet sauce.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To keep your Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry gluten-free, simply swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. Double-check your other condiments and you’re good to go!
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! Mix up the sauce ingredients up to two days in advance and store in a sealed jar in the fridge. Just give it a good shake or whisk before adding to your stir-fry.
What vegetables pair well in this stir-fry?
This recipe is super adaptable—feel free to toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or thinly sliced carrots alongside the broccoli. They add extra crunch and color, making your Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry even more inviting.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the joy of sharing a quick, flavor-packed meal with family or friends, and Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is the kind of recipe that you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. If you’re craving something satisfying that comes together in one pan and just minutes, I hope you’ll give this stir-fry a try—and fall as much in love with it as I have!
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Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a flavorful and easy Asian-inspired dish that makes for a satisfying meal. The combination of savory ground beef, crisp broccoli, and a sweet honey garlic sauce is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- cooked white or brown rice for serving
- sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, water, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
- Sauté Broccoli: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet, sauté broccoli until tender-crisp. Remove from skillet.
- Cook Ground Beef: Brown ground beef in remaining oil, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Return broccoli to the skillet, pour in the sauce, and simmer until thickened.
- Finish and Serve: Top with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over rice.
Notes
- You can steam the broccoli ahead of time for a softer texture.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (with rice)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
