Introduction
Craving a quick, flavorful dinner that’s ready in under 20 minutes? This honey garlic ground beef and broccoli is a savory-sweet stir-fry that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a sticky honey garlic sauce come together over fluffy rice for a meal that’s easy, satisfying, and packed with flavor. No complicated steps—just simple ingredients cooked to perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & Easy: Ready in 20 minutes—ideal for hectic evenings.
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples with no fancy techniques.
- Versatile: Swap veggies or proteins based on what you have.
- Kid-Friendly: The sweet-salty sauce is a crowd-pleaser.
- Meal-Prep Ready: Stores and reheats beautifully for lunches.
What Makes It Special? The honey garlic sauce caramelizes slightly, coating every bite with glossy, umami-rich flavor—better than takeout!
Ingredients Needed
For the Stir-Fry
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 works best)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tbsp pre-minced garlic)
- 1 cup chopped white onion (about 1 small onion)
- 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped small (or pre-cut florets)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
For the Sauce
- 1 cup honey garlic sauce (see notes for homemade option)
For Serving
- 4 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice/quinoa)
How to Make Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add oil, garlic, and onion. Cook for 1–2 minutes until onions turn translucent (this builds the flavor base).
- Brown the Beef: Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 3–4 minutes until no pink remains. Tip: Avoid overcrowding to prevent steaming.
- Add Broccoli: Toss in broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender (a fork should pierce easily).
- Coat with Sauce: Pour in honey garlic sauce, stirring to combine. Cook for 1–2 more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the beef and broccoli.
- Serve: Divide rice into bowls, top with the beef-broccoli mixture, and drizzle with extra sauce if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Presentation: Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions.
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Microwave with a splash of water or reheat in a pan to revive crispness.
Helpful Notes
- Homemade Sauce Option: Mix ½ cup honey, ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp minced garlic, and 1 tsp cornstarch. Simmer until thickened.
- Veggie Swap: Try bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
Conclusion
This honey garlic ground beef and broccoli is a guaranteed weeknight win—fast, flavorful, and family-approved. The balance of sweet and savory makes it addictive, and the one-pan method means less cleanup.
Tried it? Rate the recipe below and tag us on Instagram or Pinterest so we can see your creations!
Question for You: What’s your go-to quick dinner when time’s tight?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds nuttiness, and quinoa boosts protein. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Is the coconut lime drizzle dairy-free?
This recipe doesn’t include a coconut lime drizzle, but if you’d like one, blend coconut milk, lime zest, and a touch of honey—it’s naturally dairy-free!
Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli
Equipment
- Large frying pan or skillet
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
Main
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup white onion chopped
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets chopped small
- 1 cup honey garlic sauce store‑bought or homemade
- 1 cup cooked rice for serving
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion; cook 1–2 minutes until onion is translucent.
- Add 1 lb ground beef, break it apart, and cook 3–4 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add broccoli florets and stir together. Cook 3–4 minutes until crisp‑tender.
- Pour 1 cup honey garlic sauce over the mixture, stir to coat, and cook 1–2 minutes until sauce is heated through.
- Scoop cooked rice into bowls and top with the beef & broccoli mixture. Serve immediately.