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Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry in 20 Minutes

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A quick and easy ground beef and broccoli stir fry that comes together in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this savory-sweet dish is a crowd-pleaser that uses simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 works best)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh, bite-sized)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (avocado or canola)
  • ½ cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
  • Optional garnishes: sesame seeds, sliced green onions, red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and beef broth. Set aside. In another small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water until smooth to make a slurry.
  2. Wash broccoli and cut into bite-sized florets. Mince garlic and grate ginger.
  3. Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Add ground beef and break it up. Let cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to sear, then break into smaller pieces. Cook 4-5 minutes total until browned and crispy in spots.
  4. Remove beef with a slotted spoon, leaving drippings. Pour off excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
  5. Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil to pan. Add broccoli florets and stir-fry 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly charred. If dry, add a splash of water and cover for 30 seconds.
  6. Push broccoli to sides of pan. Add minced garlic and grated ginger to center. Cook 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  7. Return beef to pan. Pour sauce over everything. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cook 1 minute.
  8. Stir cornstarch slurry and pour into pan. Stir constantly for 1 minute until sauce thickens and coats everything.
  9. Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

Don’t skip browning the beef for deep flavor. Prep all ingredients before cooking. Use high heat. Watch garlic carefully to avoid burning. Adjust sauce to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef, broccoli, stir fry, quick dinner, weeknight meal, easy recipe, 20 minute meal

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/easy-ground-beef-and-broccoli-stir-fry-in-20-minutes/