Sticky, savory, and sweet in all the right ways, this Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is your answer to dinner in under 30 minutes. Imagine tender-crisp broccoli florets mingling with rich, garlicky ground beef coated in a glossy honey-soy glaze—all piled over fluffy white rice. It’s comfort food that hits every craving spot.

This dish is made for weeknights when you want something warm and satisfying without pulling out every pot in your kitchen. It’s fast, it’s flavorful, and it just might become a regular in your dinner rotation. Plus, it holds up wonderfully as leftovers, making lunch the next day something to look forward to.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, go with 85/15 ground beef. It has enough fat to stay juicy and flavorful but won’t overwhelm the dish with grease. You can also use leaner beef or even ground turkey for a lighter version, but make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to keep the richness balanced.

Ingredients for the Quick & Easy Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Ground Beef – The hearty base that soaks up the sweet and savory sauce perfectly.
Broccoli Florets – Adds color, crunch, and a fresh, green bite to the dish.
Garlic – Bold and fragrant, garlic is essential for depth of flavor.
Soy Sauce – Brings umami and saltiness that anchors the sauce.
Honey – Adds the perfect sweetness to balance out the salty and savory elements.
Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce to that ideal glossy consistency.
Water – Used to make the sauce and steam the broccoli just right.
Sesame Oil – A drizzle adds a nutty finish that rounds out the flavor profile.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For a gentle kick of heat, if desired.
Cooked Rice – The soft bed that catches all that delicious sauce.

How To Make the Quick & Easy Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

While the beef cooks, steam your broccoli florets until just tender-crisp. You can do this in the microwave with a splash of water, covered, for about 2-3 minutes or in a pan with a lid over medium heat.

Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, water, and cornstarch until smooth. Add red pepper flakes here if you’re using them.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Pour the sauce into the pan with the browned beef. Let it simmer for a few minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and turns glossy. Stir in the steamed broccoli and toss everything together to coat evenly.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Drizzle in a little sesame oil for added depth. Serve the stir-fry hot over a bed of freshly cooked rice. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.

How to Serve and Store Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Serve this stir-fry immediately while it’s hot and glossy, over your favorite rice or even noodles. Jasmine or basmati rice work beautifully, but brown rice or cauliflower rice also make great options if you’re looking to switch it up.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

This dish also freezes well—just avoid freezing overcooked broccoli as it may become mushy when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce. Also, double-check that your cornstarch and sesame oil are certified gluten-free.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Just thaw it slightly before steaming. It may be softer than fresh broccoli but still works perfectly for a quick stir-fry.

What other veggies can I add?

Snap peas, red bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots are all great additions. Just make sure to stir-fry or steam them to keep a tender-crisp texture.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Swap out the beef for crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative and follow the same cooking method.

Is this good for meal prep?

It’s excellent for meal prep! Store portions with rice in containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner during the week.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

No problem! While sesame oil adds depth, the stir-fry will still be delicious without it. A little olive oil or avocado oil can work in a pinch.

Want More Quick Dinner Ideas?

If this stir-fry hit the spot, here are a few more easy dinner favorites you should definitely check out:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a cozy pasta night.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce when you want comfort food with a twist.
One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta to satisfy both pasta and beef cravings.
Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup for something with bold, warming flavor.
Louisiana Remoulade Sauce to spice up sandwiches or fried favorites.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s ready next time you need a fast, flavor-packed meal.

Let me know how it turned out! Did you go spicy with extra red pepper flakes? Maybe you tossed in mushrooms or carrots?

I love seeing your creations and hearing your twist on these dishes. Feel free to drop your version in the comments below. And for more delicious everyday meals, follow me over on Pinterest at Life with Jam.

Quick & Easy Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This fast and flavorful Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is the perfect weeknight dinner. With tender broccoli, juicy ground beef, and a sticky-sweet garlic sauce, it’s ready in under 30 minutes and made with simple pantry staples. Ideal for busy nights and easy to meal prep for the week ahead.

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. While the beef is cooking, steam the broccoli florets until just tender-crisp. You can microwave them with a splash of water for 2-3 minutes or steam on the stovetop.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, water, and cornstarch until smooth. Add red pepper flakes if using.

4. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the browned beef. Stir and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

5. Add the steamed broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce evenly.

6. Drizzle sesame oil on top. Serve hot over freshly cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.