Ground Beef And Broccoli Recipe

There's nothing quite like the satisfying combination of ground beef and broccoli, especially when it's whipped up in a single pan for a quick and delicious dinner. This savory dish brings tender, crisp broccoli together with juicy ground beef in a rich, flavorful sauce that’s perfect over rice, noodles, or even on its own.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe during a busy week when I needed something hearty yet easy to prepare. It’s now my go-to for nights when I want a healthy, family-friendly dinner with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Let’s dive into why this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is a game-changer.

Why You'll Love This Ground Beef And Broccoli Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with your new weeknight dinner staple. This dish is a must-try for so many reasons.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. From prep to table, you’re looking at just 20–25 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you’re short on time but still want a homemade meal.

It’s also budget-friendly. Using ground beef and a few pantry staples, you can feed the whole family without breaking the bank. Plus, broccoli is both affordable and packed with nutrients, adding a healthy twist to this comfort food.

The flavors in this dish are irresistible. The sauce, made with soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness, pairs perfectly with the savory ground beef and slightly crunchy broccoli.

Finally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust it to suit your preferences or dietary needs, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what makes each component shine.

Ground beef is the star of the show, providing a hearty base. I recommend using lean ground beef (85% lean) to keep the dish flavorful but not overly greasy. Ground turkey or chicken also work well as substitutes.

Broccoli adds a pop of color and a nutritious crunch. Fresh broccoli is best, but frozen works in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before cooking.

Soy sauce forms the backbone of the sauce, delivering that classic umami flavor. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.

Garlic and ginger bring warmth and depth to the dish. Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger elevate the flavor, but powdered versions can be used in a time crunch.

Cornstarch helps thicken the sauce, giving it that glossy finish. It’s optional if you prefer a thinner consistency, but highly recommended for a restaurant-quality texture.

You’ll also need basic kitchen tools like a large skillet or wok, a spatula, and a small mixing bowl for the sauce.

How To Make This Ground Beef And Broccoli Recipe

Creating this flavorful dish is as simple as it gets. Follow these steps for a foolproof dinner.

Start by preparing your ingredients. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets and set them aside. Mince the garlic and ginger, then whisk together soy sauce, water, a touch of sugar, and cornstarch in a small bowl for the sauce.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once hot, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula, cooking until it’s browned and cooked through. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then remove it from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, and toss in the broccoli. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until it’s bright green and tender-crisp. If you prefer softer broccoli, add a splash of water and cover the skillet for 2 minutes to steam it slightly.

Return the ground beef to the skillet, then pour the sauce over everything. Stir well to coat the beef and broccoli evenly. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.

Serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or as is for a low-carb option. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor.

Storage Options

This dish stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, use the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity. Here are a few ways to mix things up.

Swap the protein for ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter or slightly different flavor profile.

Add more vegetables like sliced carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas to boost the color and nutrition.

For a spicier version, stir in a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes into the sauce.

Experiment with different sauces like oyster sauce or hoisin for a twist on the classic flavor.

Make it gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.

This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is endlessly adaptable, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. Enjoy!

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