Ground Beef and Broccoli

Name: Ground Beef and Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon peanut oil; 3 cups broccoli florets; 1 lb ground beef; 1 yellow onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup beef broth; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups cooked rice

Published: May 22, 2025

by Sabrina

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Ground Beef and Broccoli is a delightful dish that brings together the savory flavors of ground beef and fresh broccoli in a quick stir-fry. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something satisfying yet simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe offers a flavorful experience that everyone will enjoy.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Flavorful Dish: The combination of beef and broccoli with a slightly sweet sauce creates a delicious taste profile.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize with your favorite vegetables or meat substitutes.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients, it’s a wholesome choice for dinner.
Great for Meal Prep: Perfect for leftovers, making lunch easy the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking Ground Beef and Broccoli even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet or wok
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Mixing bowls
Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for cooking ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for the perfect balance of flavors.
Mixing bowls: Ideal for preparing sauces and combining ingredients before cooking.

Ingredients

For Stir-Fry

1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable/olive oil)
3 cups broccoli florets, washed and patted dry
1 lb ground beef
1 yellow onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
Salt and white pepper, to taste

For Sauce

2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water
1 cup beef broth
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
1-2 tablespoons honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

For Serving

3 cups cooked rice (any kind)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small container, combine the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Shake or stir well and set aside. In a separate bowl, mix the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon honey (adjust later if needed), garlic, ground ginger, and sesame oil. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the broccoli and toss to coat. Cook for 4-5 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Season the ground beef with salt and white pepper if desired. In the same skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the beef with the diced onions until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease if needed. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for 1 minute.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and bring to a boil. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Shake the cornstarch mixture, then slowly stir it into the sauce. Let it bubble gently until the desired thickness is reached.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Reduce heat to low, return the broccoli to the pan, and stir to combine. Serve hot over cooked rice. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped peanuts if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

Serving Ground Beef and Broccoli is a delightful experience, as its vibrant colors and rich flavors can brighten any dinner table. This dish pairs well with various sides and toppings, making it adaptable for any occasion.

Over Rice

Steamed Rice: Serve your Ground Beef and Broccoli over fluffy steamed rice for a classic combination. The rice absorbs the savory sauce perfectly.
Fried Rice: For a twist, serve it over fried rice, adding extra veggies and soy sauce for flavor.
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice. It’s light yet satisfying alongside the beef and broccoli.

With Toppings

Chopped Peanuts: Add chopped peanuts for a crunchy texture that complements the soft beef and broccoli.
Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide an aromatic touch that enhances the dish’s Asian-inspired flavors.
Green Onions: Sliced green onions add freshness and color, making your presentation pop.

As Leftovers

In Wraps: Use leftovers in lettuce wraps for a quick lunch. Just scoop the filling onto lettuce leaves and enjoy!
Over Noodles: Toss the mixture with cooked noodles for a hearty noodle bowl.

How to Perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli

Perfecting Ground Beef and Broccoli is all about timing and balance to ensure every bite is delicious. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh broccoli and high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
Adjust Sauce Sweetness: Taste the sauce before serving; you can adjust sweetness by adding more honey or brown sugar if desired.
Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Cook broccoli just until tender to maintain its bright color and crunch.
Mix Thoroughly: When adding the sauce, make sure to mix everything thoroughly to coat each ingredient evenly.
Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more nutrition and variety.
Season Appropriately: Adjust salt levels based on personal preference, especially if using soy sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Broccoli

Pairing your Ground Beef and Broccoli with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant rice that pairs beautifully with stir-fry dishes.
Egg Fried Rice: A flavorful side made with eggs, peas, and carrots mixed into fried rice.
Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad that balances the richness of beef with its crisp texture.
Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic enhance your meal’s veggie quotient.
Miso Soup: A warm soup that adds an umami touch before diving into your main course.
Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables make an excellent appetizer or side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ground Beef and Broccoli, avoiding common mistakes can lead to a more delicious result. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Overcooking the Broccoli: Overcooked broccoli becomes mushy and loses its nutrients. To avoid this, cook the broccoli just until it’s slightly tender, about 4-5 minutes.
Not Seasoning the Beef Properly: Under-seasoned beef can taste bland. Always season your ground beef with salt and pepper while cooking to enhance its flavor.
Ignoring the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thin, it won’t cling well to the meat and vegetables. Make sure to stir in the cornstarch mixture until you reach the desired thickness.
Using Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or expired ingredients can ruin the dish. Always check your produce before cooking, especially for fresh herbs and vegetables.
Skipping Cooking Oil: Cooking without oil can lead to sticking and burning. Use enough oil in your skillet or wok to ensure even cooking of all ingredients.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Ground Beef and Broccoli

Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Ground Beef and Broccoli

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli for Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just thaw it first, pat it dry, and follow the recipe as directed.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can swap ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option that still tastes great.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. You can also adjust sweetness by varying honey and brown sugar amounts.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

Is Ground Beef and Broccoli healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with protein from ground beef and vitamins from broccoli, making it a nutritious meal option.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Broccoli is not only quick but also versatile, allowing you to add your favorite veggies or adjust flavors based on personal preferences. It’s a family-friendly meal that everyone will love. Give it a try tonight!

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