This easy stir-fry combines tasty ground beef and crisp broccoli, all coated in a sweet honey garlic sauce. It’s quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef for this stir-fry, but you can swap it out for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Even plant-based ground meat can work for a vegetarian choice!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds crunch and color. If you’re out of broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, or green beans are great substitutes. Don’t be afraid to mix and match veggies!
Honey: Honey gives this dish its sweet flavor. If you need a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar can work well too. Just consider that the taste might shift a bit.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is my go-to, but tamari is a perfect gluten-free alternative. If you’re looking for a different flavor, coconut aminos can be used too!
How Can I Ensure My Broccoli is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting that tender-crisp broccoli can be tricky! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Start by steaming or briefly stir-frying the broccoli. This keeps the vibrant color and crunch.
- Add a splash of water to the skillet and cover for 1-2 minutes. This helps steam the broccoli without overcooking.
- Keep an eye on it! Check for that bright green color and a bite—that’s when it’s just right.
Easy Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 medium head)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stir-fry takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick 25-minute dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, water, and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth. This will be your sticky, sweet sauce. Set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, lightly season it with salt and pepper, and cook it while breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Add the Broccoli:
Next, add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry them for about 4-5 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. If you like, add a splash of water and cover the skillet briefly to steam the broccoli, which helps it cook faster while keeping it vibrant.
5. Combine Everything:
It’s time to bring everything together! Return the cooked ground beef back to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour your honey garlic sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir everything well to ensure it’s nicely coated. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
6. Perfect the Seasoning:
Taste your stir-fry and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat, depending on your preference.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry immediately over cooked rice. If you’d like, you can sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for a finishing touch. Enjoy your meal!
This recipe is not only tasty but also quick and easy, making it perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy your flavorful, easy honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry!
FAQ for Easy Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Dish?
Absolutely! If using frozen broccoli, just add it straight to the skillet without thawing. It may need a couple of extra minutes to cook, so keep an eye on it for that tender-crisp texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of water to maintain moisture if needed.
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?
Yes! You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly with different meats.
What Can I Serve With This Stir-Fry?
This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with rice, but you could also serve it over quinoa, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. A side of steamed or sautéed vegetables would complement it nicely too!