Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and savory flavors. The ground beef is cooked with a delicious honey garlic sauce that infuses the meat with rich flavor, while the crisp broccoli adds a burst of freshness and texture. It’s a quick and easy meal that is also packed with protein and nutrients, making it a go-to weeknight dinner that everyone will love. The combination of honey and garlic creates a perfect sauce that makes this dish utterly addictive.

Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
4 cups broccoli florets
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp grated ginger
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice for serving (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
Once the beef is browned, remove any excess grease, and add the garlic to the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Add the broccoli florets to the pan with the beef, then pour the sauce over the mixture. Stir to coat the beef and broccoli evenly.
Cover and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve the dish over cooked rice if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Swap the Ground Beef: If you prefer, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter version of the dish.
Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for a more colorful dish.
Spicy Kick: For more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha sauce.
Low-Carb Version: Skip the rice and serve the dish with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it before adding it to the dish, or add it to the pan a little earlier to give it time to heat through.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To make this dish spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a little bit of sriracha or chili garlic sauce.

Can I use a different protein instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Adjust the cooking times accordingly if necessary.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be made gluten-free by using tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to add more flavor and texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it before serving.

Can I use pre-cooked rice in this recipe?

Yes, pre-cooked rice works well. You can simply heat it up in the microwave or stir it into the pan during the final steps of cooking.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also serve it on its own for a low-carb option.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of the meat-based options.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) during the cooking process and stir until the sauce thickens.

Conclusion

This Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, it’s a perfect option for busy weeknights or meal prep. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a tasty dish that’s both comforting and nutritious.