Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings together the savory flavors of ground beef and fresh broccoli in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce that everyone will love. It’s a versatile recipe that you can serve on its own or with a side like rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the rich flavor profile, makes it an ideal weeknight dinner option. Plus, it’s packed with protein and veggies, making it a balanced meal for the whole family.

Ingredients

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

• 3 garlic cloves – minced

• 1 cup chopped white onion

• 1 lb lean ground beef

• 3 cups broccoli florets – chopped small

• 1 cup honey garlic sauce

• 4 cups cooked rice (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with the minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook until the onion turns translucent, about 1-2 minutes.

2. Add the ground beef to the pan and break it apart. Cook until no longer pink, about 3-4 minutes. Use a folded paper towel to soak up any excess grease if necessary.

3. Add the broccoli florets to the pan and stir together. Cook until the broccoli is crisp-tender when poked with a fork, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture, stirring to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the sauce is heated through and the broccoli is tender.

5. Serve the beef and broccoli mixture on top of cooked rice, or enjoy on its own.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 8 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 28 minutes

Variations

• Swap the broccoli for other veggies like carrots, cauliflower, or snap peas for a different flavor.

• Add a bit of heat with chili flakes or sriracha if you enjoy spicy food.

• Serve the dish over noodles or quinoa instead of rice for a different base.

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheat in the microwave or in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Stir the sauce as it heats to prevent it from burning.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the pan.

What can I serve this dish with besides rice?

This dish pairs well with noodles, mashed potatoes, or quinoa for a change.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make it in advance and store it in the fridge for a few days. It also works well as a meal prep option.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any other veggies you like, such as carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas.

How do I make the sauce from scratch?

If you don’t have honey garlic sauce, you can mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a little vinegar to create a similar sauce.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken will work well as a leaner alternative.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the label on your honey garlic sauce to ensure it’s gluten-free.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chili flakes, sriracha, or a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce for some heat.

Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?

Yes, this recipe scales easily. Just make sure you have a large enough pan to cook everything.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 1-2 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli is a fantastic meal for busy nights when you want something quick and satisfying. It’s simple, flavorful, and customizable. Whether you’re serving it over rice, noodles, or with a side of veggies, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!