This honey garlic beef and broccoli stir-fry is a tasty and quick meal! With tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and a sweet garlic sauce, it’s hard to resist.
If you’re looking for a swift dinner, this dish is a winner. I often whip it up in under 30 minutes—so easy! Just serve it over rice and enjoy your gourmet meal at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its quick cooking time and flavor. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken is a leaner option. You could even use tofu for a plant-based meal!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds a nice crunch and color. If broccoli isn’t available, many other veggies work—snap peas, bell peppers, or green beans can be great substitutes!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but you can swap it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor and a vegan option. Adjust to taste as some sweeteners can be more potent.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. If sodium is a concern, low-sodium soy sauce is a great choice, as it gives good flavor without being too salty.
How Do I Make Sure My Broccoli Stays Crisp?
To ensure your broccoli remains crisp, avoid overcooking it. Here’s a simple way to get it right:
- Start by blanching the broccoli: Boil it briefly for about 1 minute, then quickly transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking.
- In the stir-fry, just toss it in for a few minutes to finish cooking and absorb flavors.
- Watch the time closely! You want that bright green color and a nice crunch.
Following these tips helps you achieve that perfect tender-crisp texture for your dish!
Quick and Easy Honey Garlic Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head of broccoli)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral cooking oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Optional garnish: sesame seeds, chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and 10-15 minutes for cooking, making this a delicious meal in around 25 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, water, and cornstarch until everything is smooth. This will be your sweet and tangy sauce, so set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, for about 5-7 minutes or until nicely browned. If there’s a lot of fat, drain it off; we want a tasty dish, not a greasy one!
3. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Stir in the minced garlic (and ginger, if you’re using it) to the beef. Cook it all together for about 30 seconds—just enough time for the garlic to smell amazing!
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Next, add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes. Look for bright green, tender-crisp broccoli. You’re aiming for crunchy goodness here!
5. Add Sauce:
Now it’s time to make it flavorful! Pour the honey garlic sauce over the beef and broccoli mix. Stir continuously as the sauce thickens and envelops everything, about 2-3 minutes. You’ll see it come together beautifully!
6. Season and Serve:
Finish off by seasoning with black pepper to your taste. Serve the stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles. If you want to take it up a notch, sprinkle some sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
And there you have it—an easy, tasty honey garlic beef and broccoli stir-fry!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Protein Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for chicken or turkey, which may require a bit longer to cook through.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just add it directly to the pan after cooking the beef. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until heated through and bright green. No need to thaw; cooking it from frozen helps retain its texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any uneaten stir-fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Extra Spicy?
Definitely! If you like a kick, add some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce. You can also incorporate sliced jalapeños or chili paste while stir-frying for an extra layer of heat!
