Say goodbye to boring dinners with this Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli — a quick dinner that tastes like takeout but is healthier and faster! This savory-sweet stir-fry brings together juicy ground beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a sticky garlic-soy-honey glaze, all cooked in one skillet. The appeal of this dish lies not only in its mix of flavors but also in its simplicity and speed. In just 25 minutes, you can serve up a meal that’s perfect for any weeknight, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones.
This dish is perfect for meal prep, and it’s fantastic for those weeknight cravings when you need something filling yet quick. The honey garlic sauce with its hint of sweetness balances beautifully with the savory flavors of the beef and the freshness of the broccoli. Each bite is a delicious blend, perfect over a bed of fluffy white rice. Whether you need a healthy meal for yourself or a delicious dinner idea to impress the family, this Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli is sure to become a staple in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Quick & Easy: Takes just 25 minutes from start to finish.
- Flavorful: The perfect balance of sweet and salty with a savory punch.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein and vitamins from broccoli.
- Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Preparing your kitchen for this dish is straightforward and efficient. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and tools. You will need a large skillet or wok, a cutting board, and a sharp knife for chopping. Make sure to have measuring spoons for accuracy and a whisk or fork to combine your sauce ingredients. If you’re serving this over rice, start cooking your desired amount of rice according to the package instructions so that it’s ready when your stir-fry is complete.
Having all these tools and ingredients organized will make the cooking process smoother. Ensure you’re chopping your onion and mincing your garlic ahead of time. This pre-preparation speeds up the cooking process significantly and allows you to focus on bringing those delicious flavors together without any last-minute rush.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water (for slurry)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 2–3 cups cooked white rice (optional)
- Sesame seeds or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice (Optional)
If you plan on serving this delicious dish over rice, start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. This will ensure that everything is ready at the same time and allows you to serve your stir-fry hot and fresh.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Warm the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 2–3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Follow with the minced garlic, stirring it in for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the ground beef.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it for 6–8 minutes, using a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces as it browns. Ensure the beef is cooked thoroughly with no pink remaining. If there’s excess grease, drain it off to keep the dish from becoming oily.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce (if using), sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. The combination of these ingredients creates a beautifully sticky sauce full of flavor. In another cup, dissolve the cornstarch in water to create a slurry. This will help thicken your sauce later.
Step 5: Add the Broccoli
Stir in the broccoli florets with the browned beef, mixing them well. Sauté for about 3–5 minutes, allowing the broccoli to cook slightly while still retaining some crunch. If you prefer your broccoli softer, add a splash of water and cover the skillet for a couple of minutes.
Step 6: Combine Sauce and Simmer
Pour the prepared sauce and the cornstarch slurry over the beef and broccoli in the skillet. Stir continuously as you cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken and take on a glossy texture. This step infuses all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once your stir-fry is ready, serve it over the cooked rice. Optionally, you can garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for added flavor and a pop of color. This final touch will elevate the dish and make it even more enjoyable.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like ginger or garlic powder for added depth.
Cooking Notes
- For a sweeter glaze, increase the amount of honey according to your taste preference.
- Ensure not to overcook the broccoli if you like it crunchy; serve it al dente for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a simple side salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Serve with some warm, crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Tips
- For meal prep, store components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
- This dish reheats well, making it a great option for lunch leftovers the next day.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 26g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just add it directly to the skillet during cooking and adjust cooking time for tenderness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The dish keeps well in the fridge for about three days, making it perfect for meal prep.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce, ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What can I substitute for the honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness if you’re looking for an alternative.
Conclusion
In just 25 minutes, you can create an impressive and delicious meal with this Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe. It’s an ideal choice for those with busy schedules who don’t want to compromise on flavor or nutrition. By bringing together simple ingredients, you create a dish that’s deliciously satisfying, guaranteeing to please even the pickiest eaters. We encourage you to try out different variations, experiment with spices, and personalize it according to your taste. Share your experiences and tips in the comments below, and let us know how you enjoyed this recipe!
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Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A quick dinner that tastes like takeout but is healthier and faster!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water (for slurry)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 2–3 cups cooked white rice (optional)
- Sesame seeds or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the rice according to the package instructions if serving over rice.
- Warm the cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft, then add the garlic.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Whisk together soy sauce, honey, hoisin, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
- Add broccoli and sauté until tender-crisp.
- Pour sauce and cornstarch slurry over beef and broccoli, cooking until thickened.
- Serve over rice and garnish as desired.
Notes
For meal prep, store components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 26 g