Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli (Easy One-Pan Dinner)

Honey garlic ground beef and broccoli is the kind of one-pan dinner that saves busy weeknights. Juicy ground beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a sweet-savory honey garlic sauce come together in just minutes, creating a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s quick, flavorful, and a healthy way to serve a takeout-inspired dish right at home.

I love sharing easy dinners that don’t skimp on taste, and this one-pan wonder is a staple in my kitchen. If you enjoy hearty, simple recipes like my one-pot smoked sausage and rice, this honey garlic beef and broccoli will be another go-to favorite. It’s fast, family-friendly, and made with ingredients you likely already have on hand.

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

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-pan meal means less cleanup, giving you more time to relax.
• Deliciously sweet and savory flavors that please even picky eaters.
• Packed with protein and veggies, making it a healthy choice.
• Customizable with your favorite ingredients for endless variations.

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Ingredients for Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delightful Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Lean ground beef: This is the star of the dish, providing a hearty protein base. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant color and crunch. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works just as well!
• Onion: Diced onion brings a sweet and savory depth to the dish. Yellow or white onions are perfect, but feel free to swap in shallots for a milder flavor.
• Garlic: Minced garlic is essential for that aromatic kick. Fresh garlic is best, but pre-minced garlic can save time.
• Olive oil: This is used for sautéing. You can substitute with sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.
• Soy sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce keeps the dish flavorful without too much salt. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
• Honey: This natural sweetener balances the savory elements beautifully. Maple syrup can be used for a vegan option.
• Rice vinegar: It adds a tangy brightness. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch.
• Ginger: Freshly grated ginger gives a warm, spicy note. Ground ginger can be used, but fresh is always better.
• Cornstarch: This thickens the sauce, giving it a nice glaze. If you’re avoiding cornstarch, arrowroot powder is a good substitute.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional, but they add a delightful kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing!

How to Make Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a quick weeknight beef and broccoli stir-fry that your family will love!

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will create a nice base for your one-pan honey garlic beef and broccoli. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding anything else; you want it to shimmer but not smoke!

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Once the oil is ready, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and the onion turns translucent. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor foundation for your dish.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. You want it to brown evenly, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The aroma of the beef mingling with the onion and garlic is simply irresistible!

Step 4: Add Broccoli Florets

Now, it’s time to add the broccoli florets. Stir them in and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still vibrant green. This quick cooking keeps the broccoli crunchy, adding a delightful texture to your healthy ground beef and broccoli meal.

Step 5: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce

While the beef and broccoli are cooking, grab a separate bowl. Mix together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and the cornstarch mixed with water. This sweet-savory beef and broccoli bowl will come together beautifully with this sauce!

Step 6: Combine and Cook

Pour the honey garlic sauce over the beef and broccoli in the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring the sauce coats all the ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. You’ll see it transform into a glossy glaze that makes everything look mouthwatering!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, serve your Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli hot. You can garnish it with red pepper flakes for a little extra heat if you like. This dish is perfect on its own or served over rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite of this quick weeknight beef and broccoli stir-fry!

Tips for Success

• Prep all your ingredients before starting to cook. It makes the process smoother!
• Don’t overcook the broccoli; you want it tender yet crisp for the best texture.
• Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to suit your taste.
• For a heartier meal, serve with brown rice or whole grain noodles.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days for easy reheating.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any large pan will do.
• Spatula: Use a wooden or silicone spatula to prevent scratching your pan.
• Mixing bowl: Any bowl will work for preparing the honey garlic sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.

Variations To Try

• Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Each brings a unique flavor to the dish.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition. The more, the merrier!
• Make it Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha for a fiery kick that spice lovers will adore.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free or use coconut aminos for a similar taste without the gluten.
• Sweetener Alternatives: Try agave syrup or brown sugar if you prefer a different sweetener in your honey garlic sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over fluffy white rice or whole grain noodles for a filling meal.
• Pair with a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Drizzle with sesame oil before serving for an extra flavor boost.
• Enjoy with a chilled glass of iced green tea to complement the dish.

FAQs about Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli

Conclusion

This honey garlic ground beef and broccoli recipe shows that weeknight meals can be quick, wholesome, and absolutely delicious. The balance of sweet and savory flavors paired with tender beef and fresh broccoli makes it a dish that everyone at the table will enjoy.

For more easy dinner inspiration, try my creamy sausage rigatoni or my classic easy goulash recipe. Each one is simple to prepare, full of flavor, and designed to bring families together around the table.

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