Introduction

This Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that’s full of savory sauce and fresh vegetables. It pairs perfectly with steamed rice for a satisfying dinner the whole family will enjoy.

A close-up of a bowl filled with three main layers: at the bottom is light brown cooked rice with a slightly oily and fluffy texture, on top there are pieces of cooked ground beef mixed with small chopped onions, covered in a glossy dark brown sauce, and scattered bright green broccoli florets and thin slices of red bell pepper, all garnished with small white sesame seeds and chopped green onions. The bowl is white with brown speckles and rests on a white marbled surface; in the background is a blurred small white bowl with sesame seeds. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 Tablespoon peanut oil (can substitute vegetable or olive oil)
3 cups broccoli florets (washed and patted dry)
1 lb. ground beef
1 yellow onion (diced)
1 red bell pepper (sliced)
Salt and white pepper (to taste)
2 Tablespoons cornstarch + 2 Tablespoons cold water
1 cup beef broth
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
1-2 tablespoons honey
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
3 cups cooked rice (any kind)

Instructions

Step 1: Combine 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water in a covered container. Shake well and set aside in a cool place.
Step 2: Mix beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon honey, garlic, ground ginger, and toasted sesame oil in a medium bowl. Set aside. You can add the additional honey later if desired.
Step 3: Heat the peanut oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add broccoli florets and toss to coat. Cook for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened, then remove and set aside.
Step 4: Season ground beef with salt and white pepper if using. In the same pan over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef with diced onions until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
Step 5: Add the sliced red bell pepper to the pan and cook for 1 minute until slightly tender.
Step 6: Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the pan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 2–3 minutes to let flavors meld and sauce reduce slightly.
Step 7: Shake the cornstarch mixture again, then slowly stir it into the simmering sauce. Continue cooking gently until the sauce thickens to your liking.
Step 8: Lower the heat to low, add the cooked broccoli back to the pan, and stir well to combine. Heat through for another minute or so.
Step 9: Serve hot over cooked rice. Garnish with green onions if desired for extra flavor and color.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free.
If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
Try using ground turkey or chicken as a leaner protein alternative.
For extra crunch, top with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts just before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat or microwave until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it while reheating.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with three main layers: the bottom layer is light brown cooked rice with a slightly glossy texture, the middle layer consists of bright green broccoli florets and vibrant red bell pepper slices scattered evenly, and the top layer has glossy, dark brown minced beef with a sauce that adds shine and a sprinkle of white sesame seeds on top, all garnished with finely chopped green onions. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a white cloth napkin on the side and a small white bowl with sesame seeds blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain the broccoli well to avoid excess water in the pan. Fresh broccoli gives the best texture and flavor.

How do I make the rice flavorful?

Cook rice with a pinch of salt and a little butter or oil. You can also cook it in broth instead of water for extra flavor. Fluff with a fork once done for perfect texture.