Ground Beef and Broccoli: A Quick, Saucy Weeknight Dinner

Some nights, I just want dinner to be done. No fuss, no fancy ingredients—just something delicious that makes everyone at the table happy. This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe has been my secret weapon for exactly those nights. It’s fast, packed with flavor, and honestly? It’s one of the easiest stir-fry dinners I’ve ever made.

It also happens to be a favorite with my kids, which is always a win. When you’ve got a dish that takes 25 minutes start to finish and gets zero complaints, you keep that one close.

Why Ground Beef and Broccoli Deserves a Spot in Your Meal Plan

I love a good shortcut that doesn’t feel like one. Ground beef cooks quicker than steak, is usually more budget-friendly, and absorbs flavor beautifully. Combine that with crisp-tender broccoli and a sweet-savory sauce that hugs every bite—and you’ve got something magical.

Here’s why I keep this recipe in my weekly rotation:

• Quick and easy – Dinner’s on the table in under 30 minutes
• One-pan wonder – Fewer dishes, less mess
• Family-approved – Kid-friendly flavors with a veggie boost
• Customizable – Make it spicy, low-carb, gluten-free—you name it
• Perfect for leftovers – I double it often for next-day lunches

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

These pantry-friendly ingredients come together fast and taste just like takeout—but better.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3–4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or thawed frozen)
• 1 pound lean ground beef or ground sirloin
• 2–3 garlic cloves, 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 (optional but adds a great kick)
• 8–10 cranks freshly ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Quick tip: I love using ground sirloin when I want it extra lean, but any ground beef works great here.

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli (Step-by-Step)

This recipe is beginner-friendly and forgiving. You can make it while chatting with your kids, catching up on laundry, or sipping something bubbly. Here’s how:

1. Sauté the broccoli

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3–4 minutes, tossing occasionally, until they’re bright green with a tender-crisp bite. Remove and set aside.

2. Brown the beef

In the same skillet, add the ground beef and minced garlic. Cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula. Drain off any excess fat.

3. Mix the sauce

While the beef is cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, and black pepper in a small bowl or measuring cup.

4. Add sauce to beef

Pour the sauce over the browned beef and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Return the broccoli

Add the cooked broccoli back into the skillet and toss everything together until coated evenly in the sauce.

6. Taste and serve

Add salt to taste if needed. Serve over hot rice or noodles and top with sesame seeds for a little crunch.

Easy Swaps and Add-Ins

This dish is super flexible. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu works.
• Add veggies: Bell peppers, shredded carrots, snap peas, or edamame.
• Make it spicy: Stir in a dash of sriracha or extra red pepper flakes.
• Go low-carb: Serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Real-Life Tips from My Kitchen

• Don’t overcook the broccoli! You want it crisp—not mushy.
• Double the sauce if you love extra flavor over your rice.
• Leftovers reheat beautifully. Just warm in a skillet with a splash of water.
• Want a thicker sauce? Mix in a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water before adding it to the beef.

FAQs About Ground Beef and Broccoli

Can I meal prep this?
Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days and reheats like a charm.

Can I freeze it?
You can, but the broccoli might soften a bit. Still tasty, just not as crisp.

What’s the best rice for serving?
I love jasmine or short-grain white rice. Brown rice or even quinoa also work well.

How do I make it gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Is this similar to Chinese beef and broccoli?
It has the same flavor profile but with the ease of ground beef instead of sliced steak.

Similar Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re into fast, flavorful dinners like this one, try these next:

• Savory and quick beef stir-fry recipe
• Hearty Korean beef bowl with bold umami flavor
• Teriyaki ground beef for a sweet and savory twist

Let’s Talk Dinner Wins

This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is proof that dinner doesn’t need to be complicated to be good. It’s fast, filling, and just really satisfying. One pan, no fuss, and it tastes like it took way more effort than it actually did.

If you try it, let me know! Leave a comment, share your favorite add-ins, or tag me on Pinterest at @Ritzyrecipes.

Here’s to delicious dinners—made simple. 🥢

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