Ground Beef And Broccoli Stir Fry Bowl

Name: Ground Beef And Broccoli Stir Fry Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, minced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Highlighted under: Easy Weeknight Eats

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Bowl when I need a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of savory beef and crisp broccoli is not only delicious but incredibly easy to whip up in just 20 minutes. A hint of garlic and ginger elevates the dish, while the soy sauce brings everything together beautifully. It's a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when I have unexpected guests. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation!

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-02-28T00:09:35.466Z

When I first tried making a stir fry, I was amazed at how quickly I could create a dish that felt both comforting and nutritious. Using ground beef meant I didn’t have to worry about cutting up any meat, which simplifies prep time a lot. I always recommend having your ingredients ready before you start cooking, as this dish comes together fast!

I figured out that using a high heat allows the beef to sear nicely, giving it that wonderful caramelized flavor that makes this dish irresistible. Tossing in the broccoli at just the right moment ensures it retains its bright color and crunch, making for a visually appealing meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich umami flavor from ground beef
Crisp broccoli that pairs perfectly
Quick and easy for busy weeknights

Ingredient Insights

The choice of ground beef is crucial for this dish. I recommend using 80/20 beef for the optimal balance of flavor and moisture. The fat content contributes to a richer sauce and enhances the umami flavor. However, if you're looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken can be substituted. Just be aware that using a leaner meat may require a bit more oil to keep the mixture from drying out during cooking.

Fresh broccoli florets are essential for maintaining texture. When adding them to the skillet, look for a vibrant green color and a tender-crisp bite, which should take about 3-4 minutes. If you're in a pinch, frozen broccoli can be used; simply add it directly from the freezer but adjust cooking time, as it may take a minute or two longer to heat through.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the beef, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the meat. A medium-high heat will give the beef a nice sear, locking in flavor and moisture. Look for the beef to turn a deep brown; this step is key for building flavor in the dish. If the skillet isn't hot enough, the meat may steam rather than brown, resulting in a less flavorful stir fry.

Incorporating garlic and ginger after browning the beef is a technique that allows their flavors to bloom. Be careful to keep an eye on them while cooking, as they can burn quickly. Cook them just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, to avoid bitterness while still infusing the oil with their aroma.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Bowl, consider serving it over jasmine or basmati rice, both of which complement the dish's flavors beautifully. Alternatively, noodles such as udon or rice noodles can create a different texture and experience. Drizzling a bit of sesame oil over the dish right before serving can enhance the nutty aroma and add an extra layer of flavor.

For a personal twist, try adding other vegetables to the stir fry, such as bell peppers or snap peas, for added color and nutrition. These can be added when the broccoli is halfway done cooking, ensuring they remain crisp yet tender. I often toss in a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat, which balances perfectly with the sweet and savory notes of the sauce.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil until smooth. Set aside.

Cook the Beef

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic and Ginger

Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Incorporate Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring well to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.

Final Touch

Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli, stirring vigorously until everything is well-coated and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding sliced red chili or a dash of hot sauce to the stir fry. You can also substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Storage Tips

Leftover Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, you may either microwave it or heat it in a skillet over low heat. Just be careful not to overcook the broccoli during reheating, as it can lose its crispness.

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, consider prepping the ingredients in advance. You can chop the garlic and ginger and even mix the sauce a day before, which will save you valuable time during busy weeknights. Just keep everything stored separately until you’re ready to cook.

Dietary Adjustments

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, simply swap out the regular soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. These options still deliver that essential umami flavor without the gluten, making this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

For a lower-carb variation, you can replace the rice or noodles with cauliflower rice. This not only reduces the carb count but also adds a nutritious boost. Simply sauté the cauliflower rice separately until tender before serving it as a base for the stir fry.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before cooking.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's great served over rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can cook it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for more variety and nutrition.