Sticky, savory, and full of comforting flavor, Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick dinner winner that delivers everything you love about takeout, straight from your skillet. With tender-crisp broccoli and richly seasoned ground beef in a glossy, garlicky sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast, filling, and utterly delicious.

It comes together in less than 30 minutes and pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles. The honey garlic sauce balances sweet and savory tones with a touch of umami, clinging to every bite of beef and broccoli. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping lunches, this one-pan wonder is a keeper.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For this dish, lean ground beef (around 85-90% lean) works best. It keeps the meal rich and satisfying without being too greasy. If you’re using fattier ground beef, be sure to drain the excess fat after browning to keep the sauce from being diluted.

Ingredients for the Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli

Ground Beef: Forms the base of the dish, offering hearty flavor and a satisfying texture.

Broccoli Florets: Adds vibrant color and a tender crunch that soaks up the sauce beautifully.

Garlic: A bold and fragrant essential that drives the flavor of the sauce.

Honey: Brings natural sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize slightly.

Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and umami depth that balances the honey.

Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce into that perfect sticky consistency.

Water: Helps distribute the sauce and ensures even cooking.

Sesame Oil (optional): A splash at the end adds a nutty aroma that elevates the entire dish.

Cooked Rice or Noodles (for serving): To soak up all that sweet-savory goodness.

How To Make the Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add the Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, cornstarch, and water. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the beef and stir to coat.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli

Toss in the broccoli florets. Cover the skillet with a lid and steam for 4-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.

Step 5: Simmer to Thicken

Remove the lid and let the mixture simmer for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and clings to the beef and broccoli.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Drizzle with sesame oil if desired, then serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.

How to Serve and Store Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli

This dish is best served hot and fresh over steamed jasmine rice or lo mein noodles. Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to keep the sauce silky.

What to Serve With Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli?

• Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice

Simple and perfect for soaking up every drop of sauce.

• Garlic Butter Green Beans

A crunchy, buttery side that complements the Asian-style flavors.

• Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls

Add a crispy appetizer for texture contrast and a fun meal addition.

• Spicy Kimchi

For a tangy, fermented bite that cuts through the richness.

• Asian Cucumber Salad

Cool, crunchy, and refreshing to balance the savory heat.

Want More Dinner Ideas with Bold Flavors?

If you love this quick skillet dinner, check out more flavor-packed meals like these:

Easy Shepherd’s Pie for a cozy meat-and-potatoes classic.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup when you’re craving something rich and hearty.
Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet for creamy comfort in every bite.
Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy that practically melts in your mouth.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for another quick and crave-worthy skillet meal.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you added red pepper flakes or swapped in cauliflower rice? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Craving a fast and flavorful dinner idea? This Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli is your new go-to! It’s a one-pan wonder made in under 30 minutes—perfect for those nights when you want something better than takeout without the hassle. Featuring sweet and savory honey garlic sauce that coats every bite of juicy ground beef and crisp broccoli, this dish hits all the right notes. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete, satisfying meal. Whether you’re searching for easy dinner ideas, healthy meal prep, or just a quick recipe with bold flavor, this one’s a guaranteed hit.