If you’re craving a quick, satisfying dinner that’s packed with flavor, this Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli is a total weeknight winner. Tender broccoli florets, coated in a sweet-savory garlic sauce, are nestled into a hearty bed of saucy ground beef—all served over fluffy white rice. It’s bold, balanced, and tastes like something straight out of a takeout box, only better (and way faster!).

This dish checks all the boxes: it’s protein-rich, veggie-loaded, and totally adaptable. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping meals for the week, or simply need something that cooks up in less than 30 minutes, you’ll want this recipe in regular rotation. Plus, the honey garlic sauce is so good you might find yourself licking the spoon.
Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Better than takeout: Save money and enjoy all the flavor right at home.
- Quick to make: 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Family-friendly: Both adults and picky eaters love it.
- Balanced meal: Protein, veggies, and grains all in one bowl.
- Customizable: Swap broccoli for green beans, snow peas, or bell peppers.
What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?
You’ll get the best flavor and texture from 85% lean ground beef. It offers just enough fat to stay juicy and flavorful without becoming greasy. If you opt for leaner beef, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a bit more sauce to keep things moist.
Ingredients for the Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli
This recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have, each playing an important role:
- Ground beef: The base of the dish, adding rich flavor and protein.
- Broccoli florets: Adds crunch, color, and a healthy dose of fiber.
- Soy sauce: The salty umami foundation of the honey garlic sauce.
- Honey: Balances the soy sauce with natural sweetness.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic brings bold, aromatic flavor.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to coat every bite perfectly.
- Water or broth: Helps blend and carry the flavors in the sauce.
- White rice (for serving): Soaks up all the delicious sauce.
How To Make the Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, cornstarch, and water or broth until smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
Add broccoli florets to the skillet with the beef. Pour in a splash of water, cover, and steam for about 3-4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir everything together and simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables evenly.
Step 5: Serve
Serve hot over a bed of white rice or even noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.

How to Serve and Store Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli
This dish feeds about 4 people generously. Serve it immediately while hot, ideally over freshly cooked rice or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Storing tips:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- You can freeze it, too! Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.
What to Serve With Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli?
Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice
The perfect, neutral base to soak up the sauce.
Garlic Butter Noodles
Rich and savory noodles add a fun twist.
Asian Slaw
A crunchy, tangy slaw balances the rich sauce beautifully.
Egg Rolls
Classic, crispy, and a perfect sidekick.
Kimchi
Add some fermented tang and spice for contrast.
Miso Soup
A warm, comforting starter to keep things cozy.
Roasted Sesame Green Beans
Double up on greens with this crispy option.
Cucumber Salad
Cool and refreshing, great for cutting through richness.
Want More Beef Dinner Ideas?
If you’re into bold and satisfying dinners like this one, check out these beefy favorites:
- Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta – silky, cheesy and hearty.
- Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta – a one-pan comfort meal.
- Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole – a crunchy, cheesy twist.
- Ground Beef Stroganoff – classic and comforting.
- Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta – quick and family-approved.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up with chili flakes? Or maybe swap the rice for noodles?
I love seeing how others make these recipes their own. Share your tips and questions below—let’s make dinner better together!
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Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Need a fast, easy dinner idea that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli hits the spot with tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a sticky-sweet garlic sauce that’s absolutely crave-worthy. It’s the perfect easy dinner for busy weeknights and packs all the flavor of your favorite takeout—without the price tag or wait. Serve it over fluffy white rice for a wholesome, satisfying meal the whole family will love. This dish checks every box for easy recipes, quick weeknight dinners, and healthy dinner ideas.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
3 cups broccoli florets
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/3 cup water or broth
2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
Instructions
1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, cornstarch, and water or broth until smooth. Set aside.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet with beef. Pour in a splash of water, cover, and steam for 3–4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
4. Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir and simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened.
5. Serve hot over cooked white rice. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
Notes
For extra richness, add a splash of sesame oil before serving.
You can substitute the white rice with brown rice or noodles for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 465
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: ground beef, broccoli, honey garlic, easy dinner, takeout fakeout
