This yummy stir-fry brings together tender ground beef and crisp broccoli, all smothered in a sweet honey garlic sauce. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor!
I love how fast this dish comes together—perfect for busy weeknights. Just stir-fry everything in one pan, and dinner is ready in a flash! Who doesn’t love that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star protein! You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. For a vegetarian twist, try crumbled tofu or tempeh.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is best for bright color and crunch. If you don’t have broccoli, snap peas or bell peppers make great alternatives. Frozen broccoli can also work, just adjust the cooking time.
Honey: Honey gives that sweet flavor. If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup works well. For lower sugar, you can reduce the amount of honey or use a sugar-free substitute.
Soy Sauce: I like using low-sodium soy sauce to keep it less salty. If you’re gluten-free, tamari is an excellent substitute.
How Do I Get My Broccoli Just Right?
The goal is to have tender but crisp broccoli. Begin by adding it to the skillet after the beef and garlic have sautéed. This timing allows the broccoli to cook while retaining its bright green color and crunch.
- Stir-fry the broccoli for 4-5 minutes. You want to see bright green, not dull!
- If you like your veggies softer, add a splash of water and cover the pan for a minute to steam them slightly.
Remember, the key is not to overcook. Bright, crunchy broccoli makes the dish pop!
Easy Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Protein: 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- Vegetables: 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Optional:
- red chili flakes for a mild heat
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stir-fry will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare, plus another 10-15 minutes to cook. That means you can have dinner on the table in just about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water until smooth. This will be your flavorful sauce! Set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, you can drain it away for a lighter dish.
3. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pan with the beef and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This will fill your kitchen with an amazing aroma!
4. Stir-Fry the Broccoli:
Now it’s time to add in the broccoli florets. Stir-fry them for about 4-5 minutes, until they’re bright green and just tender but still have a nice crunch. You want them to stay colorful and fresh!
5. Combine with Sauce:
Pour the honey garlic sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly with that delicious sauce.
6. Cook Until Thickened:
Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. This is the fun part, as your dish is transforming!
7. Serve:
Remove the pan from heat. Serve the honey garlic ground beef and broccoli over cooked rice or noodles. If you like a little kick, sprinkle on some red chili flakes before serving!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen broccoli, just add it directly to the skillet, but be mindful that it may take a bit longer to cook. Stir-fry until it’s heated through and tender, usually about 5-7 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for alternatives to ground beef, ground turkey or chicken work well. For a vegetarian option, try using crumbled tofu, tempeh, or even lentils as substitutes in this stir-fry.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the skillet over medium heat until heated through, or use the microwave in short intervals until hot.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Yes, if you like a bit of heat, add red chili flakes to taste when you pour in the honey garlic sauce. You can also include sliced chili peppers during the stir-fry process for an extra kick!