Quick and Delicious One-Pan Mongolian Beef and Broccoli Recipe in 20 Minutes

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s fast, flavorful, and fuss-free, this One-Pan Mongolian Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is a perfect choice. Ready in just 20 minutes, it combines savory, slightly sweet, and garlicky flavors that make weeknight meals exciting without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or in lettuce wraps, this dish will impress your family and guests alike.

One-Pan Mongolian Ground Beef and Broccoli ready to serve

Ingredients for Four Servings

For the Beef and Broccoli

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 3 to 4 cups broccoli florets

• 1 pound lean ground beef

  
  

For the Sauce

• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 1 cup water

• ½ teaspoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

• ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil

• ¼ cup packed brown sugar

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)

  
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the sauce by whisking together soy sauce, water, vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, cornstarch, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Set aside.

   
   

2. Cook the broccoli by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the broccoli florets and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set aside.

   
   

3. Brown the ground beef by adding the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

   
   

4. Combine and simmer by reducing the heat to medium. Return the broccoli to the skillet and pour in the prepared sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Cook for 1 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the beef and broccoli.

   
   

5. Serve immediately over your choice of rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra touch.

   
   

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal

• Protein: 28 grams

• Carbohydrates: 20 grams

• Fat: 15 grams

• Fiber: 4 grams

• Sugar: 10 grams (mainly from brown sugar and vegetables)

• Sodium: Moderate, thanks to low-sodium soy sauce

  
  

This meal provides a balanced mix of protein and fiber, making it satisfying and nutritious for a quick dinner.

Tips to Customize Your Dish

• Add a splash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce if you like your food with a spicy kick.

• For a saucier dish, add an extra ¼ cup of water while simmering the sauce.

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

• Use fresh broccoli stems peeled and sliced thinly to reduce waste and add crunch.

• Try serving in lettuce wraps for a low-carb, refreshing alternative.

  
  

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Weeknights

This recipe shines because it uses just one pan, cutting down on cleanup time. The sauce comes together quickly with simple pantry staples, and the ground beef cooks fast while absorbing the bold flavors. Broccoli adds a fresh crunch and nutrients without slowing you down. The whole meal is done in about 20 minutes, making it ideal for anyone juggling work, family, or other commitments.

If you want a meal that feels like you spent hours cooking but actually took less time than ordering takeout, this Mongolian Ground Beef and Broccoli is your go-to. It’s flexible, tasty, and easy to prepare, so you can enjoy a satisfying dinner any night of the week.