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Best Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

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A quick and easy weeknight stir-fry with ground beef and broccoli in a thick, glossy sauce. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s a budget-friendly takeout alternative that’s packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85/15)
  • 3 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
  • ¼ cup (60ml) low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) brown sugar
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon (8g) cornstarch
  • ½ cup (120ml) beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil (such as avocado or canola)
  • Optional: sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and cornstarch until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. Set aside.
  2. Sear the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once shimmering, add the ground beef. Break it up and let it cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to get a brown crust. Continue breaking it up and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully browned.
  3. Remove the Beef: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked beef to a plate. Leave about 1 tablespoon of rendered fat in the pan.
  4. Cook the Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  5. Steam the Broccoli: Add broccoli florets to the pan. Pour in about 2 tablespoons of water and immediately cover with a lid. Let steam for 2 minutes until crisp-tender.
  6. Combine Everything: Remove the lid. Return the cooked ground beef to the pan. Whisk the sauce again and pour it over the beef and broccoli.
  7. Thicken the Sauce: Stir everything together and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce becomes thick and glossy.
  8. Finish with Sesame Oil: Turn off the heat. Drizzle toasted sesame oil over the top and stir to combine.
  9. Serve Immediately: Spoon over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.

Notes

For best results, have all ingredients prepped before starting. Use high heat for searing the beef. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water or broth. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of liquid.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef and broccoli, beef and broccoli stir fry, easy stir fry, weeknight dinner, quick dinner, budget-friendly, one-pan meal

Find it online: https://cooksyla.com/best-easy-ground-beef-and-broccoli-stir-fry/