Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a delicious and satisfying meal combining tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory, umami-rich sauce. Its perfect balance of textures and flavors makes it ideal for busy weeknights or family dinners. Simple, flexible, and packed with nutrition, this stir-fry is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for hectic evenings.

• Beginner-Friendly: Straightforward recipe great for any skill level.

• Family-Friendly: Flavorful and nutritious, a hit with kids and adults.

• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef

• 2 cups broccoli florets

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.

• Swap broccoli with snap peas or bell peppers for variety.

• Tamari or coconut aminos are good soy sauce replacements.

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Step-by-Step

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
   Pro Tip: Non-stick pans make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.

2. Cook ground beef: Add beef, breaking it apart. Brown for 5-7 minutes without overcrowding—cook in batches if needed.

3. Add garlic and ginger: Stir in minced garlic and ginger; cook about 1 minute until fragrant. Avoid burning garlic.

4. Add broccoli: Toss in broccoli florets, cooking 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. For softer broccoli, add a splash of water and cover briefly.

5. Add sauces: Pour in soy and oyster sauces, mix well, and cook 2 more minutes allowing flavors to meld.
   Pro Tip: Add a cornstarch-water slurry now if you prefer a thicker sauce.

6. Season and serve: Adjust salt and pepper, garnish with sesame seeds or green onions, and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with steamed jasmine rice or lo mein noodles for a complete meal.

• Pair with light beer or iced green tea for refreshing drinks.

• Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers up to 3 months; label with date.

• Reheat on stove over medium heat with a splash of water to revive sauce.

Tips for Success

• Prep ingredients beforehand for smooth cooking.

• Use fresh broccoli for optimal flavor and texture.

• Avoid overcooking broccoli to keep it tender-crisp.

• Let beef brown fully for maximum flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Add 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes or Sriracha for spice.

• Include bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more veggies.

• Make vegan by substituting ground beef with textured vegetable protein (TVP) and use soy sauce instead of oyster sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use other proteins instead of ground beef?
A: Yes! Ground chicken, turkey, or tofu are great choices.

Q: How do I thicken the sauce?
A: Mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with an equal amount of water and stir into the stir-fry near the end.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, but thaw and drain excess water to avoid sogginess.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free soy sauce and sauces to make it gluten-free.

Q: How many servings does this yield?
A: About 4 servings, adjustable as needed.