Ground Beef Broccoli Stir-Fry

This savory ground beef and broccoli stir-fry has been my weeknight dinner savior for years. When I need a protein-packed meal that comes together quickly but still satisfies those takeout cravings, this dish never disappoints. The rich sauce coats every morsel perfectly, creating a restaurant-quality experience right at home.

I first created this recipe when trying to recreate my favorite Chinese takeout dish but with ingredients I always keep stocked. Now my family requests it weekly and I love that I can sneak in extra veggies without complaints.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: 85% lean or higher provides the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition without excessive fat. The slight fat content helps carry the savory flavors throughout the dish.
• Broccoli florets: Offer crisp texture and nutritional value. Look for deep green heads with tight florets for the freshest option.
• Garlic: Minced fresh provides aromatic flavor that forms the base of this Asian-inspired dish. Choose firm heads with unbroken skin.
• Ginger: Adds warming spice and authentic flavor. Fresh grated offers the brightest taste but ground works perfectly in a pinch.
• Soy sauce: Creates the umami foundation for the sauce. Low sodium allows you to control the saltiness level yourself.
• Oyster sauce: Delivers rich depth and complexity. This ingredient is worth seeking out for authentic flavor.
• Rice vinegar: Balances the savory elements with subtle acidity. Unseasoned works best here.
• Sesame oil: Provides distinctive nutty aroma. A little goes a long way so measure carefully.
• Cornstarch: Helps the sauce cling to every bite. Always mix with liquid before adding to hot dishes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Place a large wok or skillet over medium high heat until it feels hot when you hold your hand above it. Add the ground beef and use a wooden spoon to break it into small crumbles as it cooks. The beef should sizzle immediately upon contact with the pan. Continue cooking for 5 to 6 minutes until no pink remains and the edges begin to caramelize slightly. If excess fat has accumulated, carefully tilt the pan and spoon off most of it, leaving just enough to flavor the dish.

Add the Aromatics:

Push the cooked beef to one side of the pan, creating space to add the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for about 30 seconds until intensely fragrant but not browned as this can create bitterness. The aromatics should sizzle gently in the oil, releasing their essential oils and flavors.

Cook the Broccoli:

Add the broccoli florets to the aromatic oil side of the pan. Allow them to make contact with the hot surface for about 30 seconds before stirring everything together with the beef. The broccoli should turn vibrant green while maintaining a pleasant crunch. This typically takes 2 to 3 minutes of cooking but watch carefully as overcooking will result in mushy texture.

Create the Sauce:

While the broccoli cooks, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, and cornstarch in a small bowl until completely smooth with no visible cornstarch lumps. The mixture should have a glossy appearance and slightly thickened consistency even before heating.

Finish the Dish:

Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the beef and broccoli mixture. Stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes as the sauce bubbles, thickens, and coats every piece. The color will deepen slightly and the sauce will cling to the ingredients rather than pooling in the bottom of the pan. Remove from heat once the desired consistency is reached.

Plate and Garnish:

Spoon the finished stir fry over rice or cauliflower rice if desired. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added texture, color, and flavor dimension. The contrast of the bright green scallions against the rich brown sauce creates visual appeal alongside the taste enhancement.

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You Must Know

My absolute favorite ingredient in this recipe is the oyster sauce. I discovered its transformative powers years ago when my Chinese neighbor showed me how to make authentic stir fries. The rich, savory depth it adds simply cannot be matched, and it instantly elevates simple ingredients to restaurant quality status.

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Perfect Pairings

This beef and broccoli stir fry plays wonderfully with various sides depending on your dietary preferences. Traditional white rice soaks up the savory sauce beautifully, while cauliflower rice keeps things low carb without sacrificing the experience. For something in between, try serving it over half rice, half shredded cabbage for added nutrition with familiar comfort. I particularly enjoy it with a side of quick pickled cucumbers for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Smart Substitutions

This recipe welcomes creative adaptations based on what you have available. Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully in place of beef for a lighter option. Vegetarians can substitute crumbled tofu or tempeh seasoned with a bit of mushroom powder for umami depth. No broccoli? Try cauliflower, green beans, or bok choy instead. The sauce works with virtually any vegetable combination, making this perfect for cleaning out the produce drawer before shopping day.

Storage and Reheating

This stir fry actually improves with a little rest as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a tablespoon of water to the microwave safe container to create steam that will prevent the dish from drying out. For best texture, heat in 30 second intervals, stirring between each until just warmed through. This dish also freezes surprisingly well for up to 2 months, though the broccoli texture will soften slightly upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add sriracha, extra red pepper flakes, or even a dash of chili oil to the sauce for a spicy kick.

→ What can I use instead of oyster sauce?

Hoisin sauce works well as a sweeter alternative, or you can use coconut aminos for a lighter, gluten-free option.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this stir-fry?

Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, snap peas, or zucchini are great options to enhance texture and flavor.

→ How do I make this keto-friendly?

Serve it over cauliflower rice and omit the brown sugar or honey in the sauce.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

→ Can I use a different protein?

Yes, ground chicken, turkey, or pork work well as substitutes for ground beef in this recipe.