Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry – Easy 30-Minute Dinner

The sizzle of ground beef hitting a hot pan, a sweet garlicky aroma swirling in the air, and bright green broccoli peeking through glossy sauce—if that doesn’t make your mouth water, I don’t know what will! The first time I whipped up this honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry, it was pure necessity: hungry kids, just 30 minutes until gymnastics practice, and a fridge that was starting to look pretty bare. What came out of that little scramble was a weeknight legend in my house—a dish that’s just as satisfying for a rushed Tuesday as it is for lazy Sunday takeout cravings.

I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and every time, it’s a hit. Sometimes, I’ll swap in whatever veggies are kicking around. Sometimes, I double the sauce because, let’s face it, everyone fights for those extra sticky spoonfuls. The real magic? It hits all the notes: savoury, sweet, garlicky, and loaded with texture. And if you’re anything like me, you love a meal that comes together in one pan and doesn’t leave you with a mountain of dishes. This honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry brings all that and more.

Whether you’re a busy parent trying to get dinner on the table (without hearing complaints), or you want to meal prep something for a few days’ worth of lunches, this recipe is for you. It’s high in protein, full of veggies, and so flexible you’ll never get bored. Plus, it’s just so darn tasty. As someone who’s cooked professionally and juggled family life, trust me—this is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to over and over again.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

I’ve cooked a lot of stir-fries, but this honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry stands out every single time. Here’s why it’s always a winner in my kitchen (and probably will be in yours, too):

• Quick & Easy: On the table in under 30 minutes—yes, really! It’s my go-to for busy nights when everyone’s starving and patience is thin.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy groceries required. Just ground beef, broccoli, pantry staples, and a handful of aromatics—nothing you can’t find at your local store. Half the time, I already have everything on hand.
• Perfect for Every Occasion: This stir-fry is equally at home on a weeknight dinner table, packed up for lunch, or even served as part of a fun “takeout night” spread with friends.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Picky eaters, adventurous foodies, and everyone in between loves it. The sweet and savory honey garlic sauce wins over even the most skeptical broccoli critics (looking at you, my youngest!).
• Unbelievably Delicious: That sauce—sticky, garlicky, a little bit sweet—clings to every bite of beef and broccoli. The whole thing is just so satisfying, you’ll wish you made a double batch.

What really sets this honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry apart is the technique. Browning the beef just right, getting that broccoli vibrant but still crisp, and letting the sauce bubble until it’s glossy and thick—those steps make all the difference. I’ve tried a dozen versions, but this one nails the balance. It’s got that homemade comfort, but feels just a little special, too.

If you’re tired of bland, dry stir-fries or recipes that never quite taste like you want, this one is about to become your new favorite. It’s the kind of meal you close your eyes and savor. It brings people together, turns leftovers into something to look forward to, and—let’s be honest—makes you look like a kitchen superstar with basically zero stress.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients to create big flavor and crave-worthy texture. I love that it works with pantry staples and a few fresh items—no special grocery runs needed. Here’s what you’ll need for the full recipe:

• For the Stir-Fry:
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (I like 85% lean—juicy, but not too greasy)
  • 3 cups (about 250g) broccoli florets (fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch—just thaw first)
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (like canola or vegetable, for high-heat cooking)
  • 1 small onion, diced (yellow or white, whatever’s on hand)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced (don’t skimp—this is the backbone of the sauce!)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or minced (optional, but adds a lovely zing)
• For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) low-sodium soy sauce (I use Kikkoman or Tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) honey (local honey gives the best flavor, but any runny kind works)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar in a pinch)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (toasted for that nutty aroma)
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons water (for mixing with cornstarch)
• For Serving & Garnish:
  • 2 cups (cooked) rice or noodles (jasmine or brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for low-carb)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for a fresh pop)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, but pretty!)

Ingredient tips: For the best texture, use small, even broccoli florets so they cook quickly. If you’re out of honey, maple syrup is a decent swap. No fresh garlic? Powder works in a pinch, but fresh is so much better. Want to go gluten-free? Tamari or coconut aminos instead of standard soy sauce. You can use ground turkey or chicken if you don’t have beef handy—honestly, I’ve done it all!

Equipment Needed

I love that this honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry doesn’t require a kitchen full of gadgets. Here’s what you’ll need (plus some alternatives):

• Large Skillet or Wok: My favorite is a 12-inch nonstick skillet, but a classic wok gives amazing heat if you have one. Cast iron also works for good browning.
• Mixing Bowls: For whisking up the sauce and prepping cornstarch slurry. Honestly, I just use a glass measuring cup most times.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Something sturdy for breaking up beef and stirring.
• Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping your veggies and aromatics. If you’re in a rush, pre-chopped broccoli saves serious time.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: For getting the sauce just right (though I admit, I eyeball the soy sauce sometimes—old habits!).
• Rice Cooker or Saucepan: If you’re making rice for serving.

You don’t need a fancy wok or anything, though if you cook stir-fries often, it’s a fun splurge! Pro tip: If you use nonstick pans, skip metal spatulas to keep them lasting longer. And honestly, I once made this entire dish in a single electric skillet at a friend’s place—so don’t stress if your kitchen isn’t decked out.

Preparation Method

1. Prep everything before you start cooking (about 10 minutes):
   
   Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets, dice your onion, mince the garlic, and grate ginger if using. Whisk together all sauce ingredients except cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Mix cornstarch with water in a separate bowl to form a slurry.
   
   Pro tip: This recipe moves fast, so having everything ready is key. If you’re prepping rice, get that started now.
2. Brown the ground beef (5-7 minutes):
   
   Heat 1 tablespoon oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with your spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of excess fat, drain some off, but leave a little for flavor.
   
   Note: Don’t overcrowd the pan or the beef will steam instead of brown. Listen for that satisfying sizzle!
3. Add aromatics (2 minutes):
   
   Push beef to one side of the pan. Add the remaining oil, then toss in diced onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
   
   Cue the amazing smells—this is when the kitchen starts to feel cozy.
4. Cook the broccoli (3-4 minutes):
   
   Add broccoli florets to the pan. Stir everything together. Pour in 2 tablespoons of water, then cover with a lid. Steam for 3-4 minutes, just until broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender.
   
   If you like your broccoli softer, cook for an extra minute or two. If using frozen, it may need another minute.
5. Add the sauce and thicken (3-5 minutes):
   
   Give your honey garlic sauce another whisk and pour it into the pan. Stir so everything gets coated. As it starts bubbling, add the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened and glossy.
   
   If the sauce gets too thick, splash in a tablespoon of water. If it’s too thin, simmer a bit longer with the lid off.
6. Taste and adjust:
   
   Give it a taste—add a pinch of salt, a splash more soy sauce, or a tiny drizzle of honey if you want it sweeter. If you love heat, sprinkle in more red pepper flakes.
7. Serve:
   
   Spoon the honey garlic ground beef and broccoli over warm rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
   
   Enjoy your homemade takeout! Leftovers keep well, if you have any.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Years of stir-fry experiments (and, let’s be real, a few disasters) have taught me some tricks for perfect honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry every time:

• Hot pan, fast cooking: Stir-fries are all about high heat. Make sure your skillet or wok is hot before you add the beef—this helps it brown, not steam.
• Don’t crowd the pan: If you double the recipe, brown the beef in batches. Too much at once, and you’ll get grey, soggy meat (been there, regretted that).
• Prep ahead: Chop all your ingredients before you start. This recipe moves quickly, and you don’t want to be mincing garlic while your sauce burns.
• Watch the broccoli: The difference between vibrant and mushy broccoli is about 90 seconds. Test a piece before you finish cooking—crisp-tender is the sweet spot.
• Thickening the sauce: Always mix cornstarch with cold water to avoid lumps. If your sauce isn’t thickening after a few minutes at a simmer, try a little more cornstarch slurry.
• Balance the flavors: Sometimes, honey can caramelize too fast. If your sauce gets too dark, lower the heat next time. Taste before serving—salt, sweetness, and heat should all shine through.

One time I got distracted and added the sauce before the broccoli was done—let’s just say the veggies were swimming in syrupy sauce and the texture was…not great. Lesson learned: follow the steps, and don’t rush. Oh, and if you want to save time, start the rice before you even touch the beef. Multitasking is your friend in a busy kitchen!

Variations & Adaptations

The beauty of honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry is how easy it is to make it your own. Here are some of my favorite twists:

• Low-Carb or Keto: Swap the honey for a low-carb sweetener (like allulose or monk fruit), use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and serve over cauliflower rice.
• Vegetarian Version: Sub in crumbled firm tofu or a plant-based ground “meat.” Mushrooms add great texture, too—just sauté them with the onions and garlic.
• Spicy Kick: Love heat? Add a tablespoon of chili garlic sauce or a dash of sriracha to the honey garlic sauce. I sometimes double the red pepper flakes when my husband’s in the mood for extra zing.
• Other Veggies: Don’t have broccoli? Try snap peas, bell peppers, carrots, or even frozen edamame. This is a great “clean out the fridge” recipe.
• Different Cooking Methods: You can make this in an Instant Pot using the sauté function, or even on a camp stove (yes, I’ve taken this recipe camping—so good after a long hike!).

Personally, I love sneaking in a handful of shredded carrots and a splash of hoisin sauce for extra depth. My kids have no idea they’re getting more veggies, and the flavor is out of this world. If you’re allergic to sesame, skip the oil and seeds—olive oil works fine, and the dish still shines.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry is best served hot and fresh, spooned generously over a bowl of fluffy rice or noodles. I love topping it with green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a little crunch and color. If you want to get fancy, a wedge of lime on the side brightens everything up.

Pair with a crisp Asian slaw, simple miso soup, or even steamed dumplings for a complete meal. For drinks, a cold sparkling water with lemon or a light green tea complements the flavors perfectly.

Leftovers? Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This stir-fry reheats well in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just make sure to cool it completely before freezing. The flavors deepen as it sits, so don’t be surprised if tomorrow’s lunch tastes even better!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each serving of honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry (without rice) has approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 18g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g

Broccoli is loaded with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making this dish a great way to sneak in some extra greens. Lean ground beef provides iron and protein, while honey offers a natural sweetness without refined sugar. This recipe is naturally dairy-free and can be made gluten-free with tamari. If you have a sesame allergy, just skip the oil and garnish. Personally, I love that it fits into my balanced eating routine—satisfying, nourishing, and family-friendly.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s quick, flavorful, and checks all the comfort food boxes, this honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry is it. It’s flexible, fuss-free, and brings big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you stick to the classic version or try your own twist, you’ll find yourself making this recipe again and again.

Honestly, it’s become a staple in my house for a reason. I hope it becomes one in yours, too! Don’t be afraid to swap in your favorite veggies or add a little extra garlic—make it your own.

If you give it a try, let me know in the comments below! Share your photos, tag your tweaks, or tell me how your family liked it. I love seeing how a simple stir-fry brings a little extra joy to your dinner table. Happy cooking—cheers to easy, delicious meals!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well in this stir-fry. You might want to add a splash of extra oil, as they’re usually leaner than beef.

What’s the best way to get broccoli tender but still crisp?

Steam the broccoli with a splash of water and cover the pan for 3-4 minutes. Test a piece—it should be bright green and crisp-tender, not mushy.

Can I make this dish ahead for meal prep?

Yes! This stir-fry keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully. Store the rice separately for best texture.

Is this honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry gluten-free?

It can be! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and double-check that your other ingredients are gluten-free.

How can I make the sauce less sweet or more savory?

Reduce the honey to taste, or add an extra splash of soy sauce for more umami. Taste as you go—everyone’s sweet tooth is different!

Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

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• Author: Leana
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This quick and easy honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir-fry is a weeknight dinner hero, ready in just 30 minutes. Savory, sweet, and garlicky, it’s loaded with protein and veggies for a satisfying, family-friendly meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean preferred)
• 3 cups broccoli florets (about 8 ounces; fresh or thawed frozen)
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil (canola or vegetable), divided
• 1 small onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or minced (optional)
• 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
• 2 cups cooked rice or noodles (for serving; jasmine, brown, or cauliflower rice)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prep all ingredients: Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets, dice onion, mince garlic, and grate ginger if using. Whisk together soy sauce, honey, vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water in a separate bowl to form a slurry.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving a little for flavor.
3. Push beef to one side of the pan. Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, then add diced onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli florets to the pan and stir everything together. Pour in 2 tablespoons water, cover, and steam for 3-4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender.
5. Whisk the honey garlic sauce again and pour it into the pan. Stir to coat everything. As it bubbles, add the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning: add salt, more soy sauce, or honey as desired. Add extra red pepper flakes for more heat if you like.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!

Notes

Prep all ingredients before starting, as stir-fries cook quickly. For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos. Swap in ground turkey, chicken, or tofu for variations. Add other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas if desired. Leftovers keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: About 1/4 of recipe (without rice)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 10
• Sodium: 700
• Fat: 18
• Saturated Fat: 6
• Carbohydrates: 18
• Fiber: 3
• Protein: 25

Keywords: honey garlic, ground beef, broccoli, stir-fry, easy dinner, 30-minute meal, family-friendly, Asian, meal prep, gluten-free option