This Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that combines lean ground beef with crisp broccoli in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. It's a healthier alternative to takeout, offering a balance of protein and vegetables in every bite. The dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings when you crave a satisfying, homemade dinner.
Full Recipe:
1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable, peanut, or similar)
1 medium yellow or white onion, sliced
3 cups broccoli florets
1 cup low-sodium beef broth
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons ginger paste
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooked white rice, for serving
Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger paste, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
Cook the Beef: Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Onions and Broccoli: To the skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
Thicken the Sauce: In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the skillet while stirring. Continue to cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Serve: Remove from heat. Serve the stir fry over cooked white rice and garnish with toasted sesame seeds.
Calories: Approximately 544 kcal
Protein: 36 g
Fat: 27 g
Carbohydrates: 46 g
Dietary Fiber: 16 g
Sugars: 15 g
Sodium: Approximately 1198 mg
Cholesterol: Approximately 76 mg