Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights? Look no further than this Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe! This dish is a savory stir-fry featuring lean ground beef, tender broccoli, and a flavorful sauce that comes together in just 20 minutes. It’s an easy one-pan meal that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles and satisfies the whole family. Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, making it a nutritious choice for dinner. Read on for the complete recipe, step-by-step instructions, and variations to customize it to your taste.

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What is Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Ground beef and broccoli is a simplified version of the classic beef and broccoli stir-fry, typically made with thinly sliced steak. Using ground beef makes this dish more budget-friendly, faster to cook, and easier to prepare, especially on a busy weeknight. The dish is known for its savory, umami-packed sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of sweetness. The result is a delicious combination of tender beef, vibrant green broccoli, and a sauce that coats everything perfectly. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to make this dish at home.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef and Broccoli

To make this tasty ground beef and broccoli dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Ground Beef (1 lb) – Lean ground beef (80-90%) works best for this recipe to avoid excess grease.
2. Broccoli Florets (3-4 cups) – Fresh or frozen broccoli both work well, but fresh broccoli will give the best texture.
3. Onion (1 small, finely diced) – Adds flavor and texture to the dish.
4. Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – For a punch of flavor and aroma.
5. Ginger (1 tablespoon, minced or grated) – Adds warmth and spice to the dish.
6. Soy Sauce (¼ cup) – Provides the umami base for the sauce. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt content.
7. Oyster Sauce (2 tablespoons) – Adds depth and a touch of sweetness.
8. Hoisin Sauce (1 tablespoon) – For added sweetness and complexity.
9. Sesame Oil (1 tablespoon) – Provides a nutty flavor that pairs well with Asian-inspired dishes.
10. Rice Vinegar (1 tablespoon) – For a bit of acidity to balance the sauce.
11. Cornstarch (1 tablespoon) – Helps thicken the sauce.
12. Water (¼ cup) – To mix with the cornstarch and create a slurry for thickening.
13. Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat) – Adds a touch of spice.
14. Green Onions (2-3, sliced, for garnish) – Adds a fresh, bright flavor.

Ingredients List for Optional Add-Ins

Want to give your ground beef and broccoli recipe an extra boost? Try adding some of these ingredients for a different flavor profile or additional nutrition:

1. Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced) – Adds an earthy, umami flavor to complement the beef.
2. Carrots (1 cup, julienned) – For extra crunch and a touch of sweetness.
3. Bell Peppers (1, sliced) – Adds color and sweetness to the stir-fry.
4. Snap Peas or Snow Peas (1 cup) – For additional texture and a fresh, crunchy bite.
5. Sesame Seeds (1 tablespoon, for garnish) – Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch to the dish.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly versatile and can easily be customized based on dietary preferences, ingredient availability, or personal taste. Here are some popular substitutions and variations:

1. Ground Meat Variations: Don’t have ground beef? You can swap it with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a leaner or different flavor. Each option works well with the savory sauce.
2. Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat, crumbled tofu, or tempeh. Use soy sauce or a plant-based oyster sauce to keep the flavors authentic.
3. Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Make sure to check that your oyster and hoisin sauces are also gluten-free or use gluten-free versions of those sauces.
4. Low-Carb/Keto: Omit the hoisin sauce (which contains sugar) and serve the ground beef and broccoli over cauliflower rice or enjoy it as-is for a low-carb dinner.
5. Spice Level: If you love heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
6. Swap Broccoli for Other Veggies: Not a fan of broccoli? Try using cauliflower, zucchini, or green beans in its place for a different texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This recipe is incredibly simple and takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

If you're using fresh broccoli, wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. If using frozen broccoli, let it thaw slightly and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook the beef for 5-7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger

Once the beef is cooked, add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli turns bright green and is tender-crisp. If you prefer softer broccoli, cover the skillet with a lid and let it steam for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with ¼ cup water to create a slurry.

Step 6: Add the Sauce

Pour the sauce mixture over the ground beef and broccoli. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry while stirring, allowing the sauce to thicken. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds (if using). Serve immediately with steamed white or brown rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Broccoli: Broccoli should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Overcooking it can make it lose its vibrant color and texture. Aim for a few minutes of cooking or steam it lightly before adding it to the skillet.
2. Not Draining Excess Fat: If you're using higher-fat ground beef, be sure to drain off any excess fat to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.
3. Skipping the Cornstarch Slurry: The cornstarch slurry is key to thickening the sauce and giving it that glossy, restaurant-style finish. Don’t skip this step or your sauce may end up too thin.
4. Not Adjusting Seasoning: Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust saltiness or sweetness to your preference. Some brands of soy sauce or hoisin sauce can be saltier or sweeter than others, so adjusting seasoning is crucial.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Ground beef and broccoli is a simple yet visually appealing dish that’s easy to present beautifully. Here are some serving tips to enhance the experience:

1. Serve Over Rice: The savory sauce pairs perfectly with fluffy steamed white rice or brown rice. For a healthier option, try serving it with quinoa or cauliflower rice.
2. Use a Shallow Bowl: Serve the beef and broccoli in shallow bowls, with the rice or noodles on the bottom, and pile the stir-fry on top. Drizzle with extra sauce for presentation.
3. Top with Garnishes: Sprinkle fresh green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sriracha or sesame oil for a colorful finish. You can also add a wedge of lime on the side for a burst of citrus flavor.
4. Pair with a Side Salad: To make it a complete meal, pair the stir-fry with a simple side salad like cucumber and tomato or an Asian-style slaw.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

Ground beef and broccoli is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas for serving:

1. Over Steamed Rice: The classic pairing is with steamed white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
2. With Noodles: Serve over lo mein or rice noodles for a heartier option.
3. In Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the beef and broccoli in lettuce cups, like butter lettuce or romaine, for a fresh, low-carb meal.
4. In a Stir-Fry Bowl: Create a stir-fry bowl by layering rice, quinoa, or couscous with the beef and broccoli mixture, then top with your favorite garnishes.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Broccoli

While this is a simple stir-fry, you can still elevate the presentation with a few creative touches:

1. Serve in Individual Bowls: Divide the stir-fry into individual bowls over rice or noodles and garnish each with green onions and sesame seeds.
2. Family-Style Platter: Serve the beef and broccoli on a large platter in the center of the table, family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves.
3. Asian-Inspired Serving Dishes: Present the dish in an Asian-inspired bowl or dish to add an authentic touch to the presentation.

Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe Tips

• Prepping in Advance: To save time, you can prep all your ingredients ahead of time by chopping the onions, garlic, and broccoli the night before.
• Marinate the Beef: For even more flavor, you can marinate the ground beef in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for 20 minutes before cooking.
• Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce, consider doubling the sauce ingredients so you have more to drizzle over rice or noodles.
• Add a Crunchy Element: Top the stir-fry with crushed peanuts, cashews, or crispy wonton strips for added texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Thaw the broccoli slightly and pat it dry before adding it to the skillet to prevent excess water in the stir-fry.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

Can I freeze ground beef and broccoli?

Yes, ground beef and broccoli can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool the dish completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, ground beef and broccoli is a great dish for meal prep. You can cook it in advance and reheat it throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution—quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. With its simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps, this stir-fry is sure to become a family favorite. Try the recipe tonight and enjoy the delightful combination of savory ground beef, tender broccoli, and rich sauce!

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