Description
This quick and flavorful Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry combines tender-crisp broccoli with savory ground beef in a deliciously sweet and tangy sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner and pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 3-4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground sirloin)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 8-10 cranks freshly-ground black pepper
- Sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli: Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add broccoli florets and cook, tossing frequently, for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is vibrantly green with a tender-crisp texture. Remove the broccoli to a plate and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef and minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking the beef into small pieces as it cooks, until it is mostly browned. Drain off any excess fat or soak it up with a paper towel.
- Prepare the sauce: While the beef is browning, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl or liquid measuring cup. Whisk the mixture until smooth.
- Finish cooking with sauce: Once the beef is browned, pour the prepared sauce into the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Return the cooked broccoli to the pan and toss everything together to coat evenly.
- Season and serve: Taste the stir-fry and add salt if needed. Serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles, and garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- For best texture, use fresh broccoli florets and avoid overcooking to keep them tender-crisp.
- You can substitute ground sirloin or lean ground turkey for the beef for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Chinese Fusion
