Ground Beef and Broccoli

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. This dish combines tender broccoli with savory ground beef, all enveloped in a rich, slightly sweet stir-fry sauce that brings everything together. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal option for families looking for satisfying dinner ideas that are both delicious and easy to prepare.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Stir-Fry
• For the Sauce
• For Serving
• For Garnish
• How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
• Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
• Step 3: Cook the Beef
• Step 4: Add the Sauce
• Step 5: Combine and Serve
• How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli
• Over Rice
• In Lettuce Wraps
• With Noodles
• As a Bowl Meal
• How to Perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli
• Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Broccoli
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Ground Beef and Broccoli
• Reheating Ground Beef and Broccoli
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen broccoli for Ground Beef and Broccoli?
• What can I serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli?
• How do I make this recipe healthier?
• Can I customize the vegetables used in Ground Beef and Broccoli?
• How long does it take to prepare Ground Beef and Broccoli?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weekdays.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of ground beef and fresh broccoli creates a delightful mix of flavors that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice or noodles, and feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this tasty meal, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from the broccoli and lean protein from the beef, this recipe offers a balanced meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Ground Beef and Broccoli, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space to cook the ingredients evenly, ensuring they are well combined.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for preparing sauces and keeping your ingredients organized before cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Help ensure accurate ingredient amounts for a successful dish every time.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the 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 the 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

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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 well before slowly stirring it into the sauce. Let it bubble gently until it reaches your desired thickness.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

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

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and toppings. Elevate your meal by serving it in creative ways that enhance its flavors.

Over Rice

• Serve the stir-fry over fluffy, cooked rice for a classic combination. White, brown, or jasmine rice can complement the savory sauce perfectly.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fresh twist, spoon the ground beef and broccoli mixture into crisp lettuce leaves. This makes a fun, low-carb option that’s great for parties or casual dinners.

With Noodles

• Toss the beef and broccoli stir-fry with cooked noodles for a hearty meal. Use ramen or udon noodles to soak up all the delicious sauce.

As a Bowl Meal

• Create a bowl meal by layering rice, ground beef, broccoli, and toppings like sesame seeds or sliced green onions. This presentation is visually appealing and satisfying.

How to Perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli

To ensure your Ground Beef and Broccoli turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality ground beef will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly.
• Control the Heat: Cook on medium-high heat when browning the beef to achieve a nice sear without overcooking.
• Adjust Sauce Sweetness: Taste your sauce before adding it to the skillet. Adjust the honey or brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
• Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Aim for bright green broccoli that retains some crunch. It should only take 4-5 minutes to cook.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more color and nutrients.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together before serving.

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Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Broccoli

Ground Beef and Broccoli pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant rice that absorbs sauce beautifully.
2. Garlic Fried Rice: Adds an extra layer of flavor with garlic sautéed in oil.
3. Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil.
4. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy adds nutrition and crunch.
5. Egg Rolls: Crispy on the outside and filled with veggies; they make a delightful addition.
6. Miso Soup: A warm soup that balances out the meal with umami flavors.
7. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies offer contrast in texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ground Beef and Broccoli, small errors can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Sauce Preparation: Not preparing the sauce in advance can lead to uneven seasoning. Always mix the sauce ingredients before cooking to ensure a balanced flavor.
• Overcooking the Broccoli: Cooking broccoli for too long makes it mushy. Aim for a slight crunch by cooking it just until it’s tender but still vibrant green.
• Ignoring Meat Variations: Using only ground beef limits your options. Experiment with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish that still delivers great taste.
• Neglecting Rice Cooking: Poorly cooked rice can ruin your meal. Follow precise instructions to achieve fluffy rice that complements your stir-fry perfectly.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Every palate is different. Taste your sauce before adding it to the beef and adjust sweetness or saltiness as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Ground Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Ground Beef and Broccoli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• This dish can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
• Make sure to label the container with the date for reference.

Reheating Ground Beef and Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through; add a splash of water if needed to loosen up the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli for Ground Beef and Broccoli?

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

What can I serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Serve this dish over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a satisfying meal. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

To make it healthier, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey. Additionally, consider using low-sodium soy sauce.

Can I customize the vegetables used in Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.

How long does it take to prepare Ground Beef and Broccoli?

The total time for this dish is about 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Broccoli is not only quick but also versatile. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home or customize flavors to suit your preferences. Try this recipe today for a delicious meal that everyone will love!

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