Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli – A Quick and Flavorful Stir-Fry

When I need a fast, satisfying dinner that hits all the right flavor notes, this Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is my go-to. It’s made with simple, affordable ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes. The combination of savory ground beef, crisp broccoli, and a sweet-and-salty garlic sauce makes every bite feel like homemade takeout—only better.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy
I can get this on the table in just 25 minutes. It’s a total lifesaver on those busy weeknights.

One-Pan Simplicity
Everything cooks in a single skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to relax after dinner.

Flavor-Packed Sauce
The honey garlic sauce is the real hero here. I love how the sweet honey balances the salty soy sauce, with garlic and a bit of heat bringing it all together.

Family-Friendly Favorite
Everyone in my household loves this recipe—even the picky eaters. That hint of natural sweetness is always a win.

Budget-Friendly
With pantry staples and affordable ground beef, I don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

The Stir-Fry

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

The Honey Garlic Sauce

• ⅓ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Then I add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon.

Step 2: Steam or Sauté the Broccoli
I add the broccoli florets to the pan and stir. If I like them more tender, I splash in a tablespoon of water and cover the skillet for 3–4 minutes to lightly steam them.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, I whisk together soy sauce, honey, vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. I stir in the cornstarch and water mixture to help the sauce thicken when heated.

Step 4: Combine Everything
I pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli, stir well, and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened and glossy. Then it’s ready to serve over rice, noodles, or on its own.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Switch the Protein: I often substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for the beef.
• Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, shredded carrots, or mushrooms mix in perfectly.
• Low-Carb Option: I serve it over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps when I want to cut the carbs.
• Extra Heat: A dash of sriracha or more red pepper flakes brings some serious kick.
• Make it Sweet-Savory: A splash of pineapple juice gives it a tropical twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It keeps well and the flavors deepen over time.

Freezing
This stir-fry freezes beautifully. I let it cool, then portion it into freezer bags or containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating
I reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. It’s just as tasty the next day.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I use frozen broccoli when I’m short on time. I just add it straight to the pan and cook a bit longer until heated through.

What kind of ground beef should I use?

I prefer lean ground beef (like 90/10) so it’s not greasy, but any variety works—just be sure to drain excess fat if needed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, I use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce. Everything else is naturally gluten-free.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely. I cook a double batch and portion it with rice in meal prep containers. It reheats perfectly throughout the week.

What can I serve this with besides rice?

I love it with noodles, quinoa, or even stuffed into lettuce wraps for a lighter take.

Conclusion

This Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a weeknight dream—fast, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. I can throw it together with whatever I have on hand, and it still tastes amazing every time. Whether I’m feeding the family or prepping meals for the week, this dish always delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a favorite in your rotation.

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