If your evenings are jam-packed and you’re craving something hearty yet healthy, this ground beef broccoli recipe will become your go-to. It’s a delicious one-pan dinner ready in under 30 minutes—and yes, it’s just as satisfying as your favorite takeout, but healthier and way easier to make.
Growing up in a big Italian family, quick and nourishing meals were our weeknight heroes. My nonna always had a trick for turning simple pantry staples into magic—and that’s exactly what this recipe does with just ground beef, fresh broccoli, and a glossy, savory sauce. The best part? There’s no marinating, no meat slicing—just straightforward cooking that packs a punch.
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Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Broccoli Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in 30 minutes or less
- Healthy & wholesome: Loaded with protein and veggies
- One-pan cleanup: Less mess, more flavor
- Customizable: Works with your favorite swaps and additions
- Meal prep-friendly: Makes great leftovers for the week
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb | 85% lean for balance |
| Broccoli Florets | 3 cups | Fresh or frozen |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Use fresh for flavor |
| Fresh Ginger (grated) | 1 tsp | Optional but recommended |
| Soy Sauce | ¼ cup | Low-sodium preferred |
| Brown Sugar | 1 tbsp | Balances the saltiness |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp | Thickens the sauce |
| Water or Broth | ¼ cup | Broth adds depth |
| Sesame Oil | 2 tsp | A little goes a long way |
| Red Pepper Flakes | ½ tsp | Optional for spice |
| Green Onions | 2 stalks | For garnish |
| Cooked Rice | 2 cups | Jasmine or white rice works great |
Ingredient Swaps & Additions
- Ground turkey or chicken – for a lighter version
- Hoisin sauce – adds sweetness and complexity
- Cauliflower or green beans – as broccoli alternatives
- Sriracha – for a spicier kick
How to Make ground beef broccoli recipe – Step by Step
1. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add your ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned—about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for that extra depth.
📝 Pro Tip: Drain excess fat, but keep about a tablespoon for flavor.
2. Steam the Broccoli
If using fresh broccoli, microwave with a splash of water for 2–3 minutes. For frozen, just thaw until it’s no longer icy but still firm.
👩🍳 Blanching option: Boil florets for 90 seconds, then plunge into ice water. This keeps them crisp and bright green.
3. Make the Sauce
Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, cornstarch, sesame oil, and water or broth. This will be your savory-sweet magic elixir.
🔥 Optional: Add red pepper flakes if you like some heat.
4. Combine and Simmer
Reduce heat to medium. Return broccoli to the pan with the browned beef. Pour in the sauce and stir for 1–2 minutes until thick and glossy.
🧂 Taste and adjust as needed—add soy sauce for salt or sugar for sweetness.
5. Serve and Garnish
Spoon over rice and top with sliced green onions and a light drizzle of sesame oil.
Flavor Tips for Best Results
- Layer your seasoning: Start while browning the beef, then enhance with sauce.
- Don’t overcook broccoli: Steam just until crisp-tender.
- Double the sauce: Love a saucy stir-fry? Go ahead and make more!
- Use fresh garlic and ginger: They elevate the dish from good to great.
- Love umami-rich dishes? Explore our easy Japanese recipes for more quick, balanced weeknight meals.
Common FAQs
Can I meal prep this?
Absolutely! It lasts 3–4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw slightly and drain well before adding.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes—especially with lean ground beef and low-sodium soy sauce. Serve over brown rice or cauliflower rice for an even lighter option.
What’s in the sauce?
Soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and cornstarch—a beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and umami.
Do I need to marinate the beef?
Nope! Ground beef doesn’t need marinating. The sauce brings all the flavor.
Ground Beef Broccoli Recipe: A One-Pan Wonder for Busy Weeknights
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This bold and satisfying ground beef broccoli recipe is your new favorite 30-minute dinner. Juicy beef, tender broccoli, and a rich savory sauce all come together in one skillet. It’s better than takeout—healthier, faster, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
2 tsp sesame oil
2 stalks green onion, sliced (for garnish)
2 cups cooked white or jasmine rice
For the Sauce:
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
¼ cup water or beef broth
1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for extra depth)
Instructions
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned (6–8 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tbsp in the pan.Prep the Broccoli
Microwave fresh broccoli with a splash of water for 2–3 minutes or blanch quickly in boiling water. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, sesame oil, and water or broth.Combine and Simmer
Reduce heat to medium. Return broccoli to the skillet with the beef. Add garlic and ginger. Pour in the sauce and stir for 1–2 minutes until thickened and glossy.
Serve
Spoon over cooked rice and garnish with green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil.
Notes
- 🌶️ Want spice? Add sriracha or extra chili flakes to the sauce.
- 🥦 Swap the veggies: Try cauliflower, green beans, or bell peppers.
- 🥣 Extra saucy? Double the sauce recipe for more coating and richness.
- 🍚 Lighter version: Serve over cauliflower rice for low-carb or keto.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 370
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Creative Variations to Try
- Creative Variations to Try
- Spicy Sriracha Ground Beef Broccoli Recipe: Add 1 tbsp of sriracha to the sauce for a bold, spicy kick that elevates this ground beef broccoli recipe with heat and depth.
- Teriyaki Ground Beef Broccoli Recipe: Swap the soy sauce and brown sugar for teriyaki sauce to give your ground beef broccoli recipe a sweet, glossy finish—perfect for teriyaki lovers.
- Bibimbap-Style Ground Beef Broccoli Bowl: Turn your ground beef broccoli recipe into a Korean-inspired bowl by topping it with a fried egg, shredded carrots, and toasted sesame seeds.
- Low-Carb Ground Beef Broccoli Version: For a lighter take, serve this ground beef broccoli recipe over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles—it’s keto-friendly and just as delicious.
Perfect Pairings
- Asian Cucumber Salad
- Garlic Fried Rice
- Want more low-carb stir-fry ideas? Don’t miss our crack slaw recipe—a spicy, satisfying favorite that’s keto-friendly and fast.
- Miso Soup
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Weeknight Dinner
This ground beef broccoli recipe proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to whip up something truly crave-worthy. It’s quick, comforting, and endlessly adaptable—ideal for families, busy singles, or anyone who loves bold flavor without the fuss.
Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular part of your weekly rotation!
