Ground Beef and Broccoli
This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that combines tender ground beef with fresh broccoli and a delicious sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes that your family will eagerly enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
- Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and honey creates a rich and tasty glaze that elevates the dish.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers, this meal is nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.
- Perfect Pairing with Rice: Serve it over rice for a complete meal that’s filling and satisfying.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smooth and efficient.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet is essential for even cooking of the ground beef and vegetables.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping your vegetables without damaging your counters.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures you can quickly dice onions and slice bell peppers for perfect texture in your dish.
Ingredients
For the Main Dish
- 1 Tablespoon peanut oil (can sub vegetable or olive)
- 3 cups broccoli florets (washed and patted dry)
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- Salt/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)
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing your broccoli florets thoroughly. Dice the onion, slice the red bell pepper, and mince the garlic. Measure all other ingredients to ensure you have everything ready.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet, heat the peanut oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it into small pieces. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
To the skillet, add diced onions and sliced bell peppers. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened. Then stir in broccoli florets and cook until vibrant green, about another 5 minutes.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Then add beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, and toasted sesame oil. Pour this mixture into the skillet.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Stir well to coat all ingredients in the sauce. Cook for another 5 minutes or until thickened slightly.
Step 7: Serve Over Rice
Spoon your flavorful ground beef and broccoli over cooked rice. Enjoy your quick and delicious meal!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ground Beef and Broccoli is a delicious dish that can be served in multiple ways. Whether you want a classic presentation or something a bit more creative, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
Over Rice
- Serve the ground beef and broccoli mixture over a bed of cooked rice for a fulfilling meal. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Use large lettuce leaves as wraps. Fill them with the ground beef and broccoli for a fresh, low-carb alternative that’s perfect for an appetizer or light meal.
With Noodles
- Toss the ground beef and broccoli with cooked noodles, like udon or rice noodles. This adds a delightful texture that complements the dish well.
As a Stir-Fry Bowl
- Create a stir-fry bowl by layering the beef and broccoli atop grains such as quinoa or farro. This makes for a hearty and nutritious meal.
How to Perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli
Achieving the perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli involves attention to detail in cooking techniques and ingredient selection.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli florets retain their crunch and vibrant color, enhancing both appearance and taste.
- Cook Beef Thoroughly: Ensure the ground beef is browned completely for optimal flavor and texture.
- Adjust Sauce to Taste: Feel free to tweak the soy sauce or sugar levels in the sauce to match your personal preference.
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
- Experiment with Spices: Try adding chili flakes or sesame seeds for an extra kick of flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy this dish right after cooking to keep everything warm and fresh.
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Broccoli
To complement your Ground Beef and Broccoli, consider these side dishes that pair perfectly with its rich flavors.
- Steamed Rice: A classic choice, steamed rice serves as a neutral base that soaks up the savory sauce.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides delightful crunchiness that contrasts nicely with the tender beef and broccoli.
- Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and brightness to your meal.
- Fried Rice: Stir-fried rice with eggs, peas, and carrots brings an additional layer of flavor that pairs excellently with this dish.
- Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed with vinegar offers a refreshing balance to the savory flavors of ground beef.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide nutrition along with natural sweetness that complements the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Ground Beef and Broccoli, it’s easy to overlook simple steps that can enhance your dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Using Old Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is essential for the best flavor and texture. Check for vibrant green color and firm florets.
- Overcooking the Beef: Ground beef should be browned but not dry. Cook just until no pink remains, then add the sauce.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Salt and white pepper elevate the dish’s flavor. Don’t skip seasoning; taste as you go to ensure balance.
- Not Thinning the Cornstarch: Mixing cornstarch with cold water before adding it helps prevent clumps. Always dissolve it first for a smooth sauce.
- Skipping the Sesame Oil: This oil adds a rich depth of flavor. Don’t omit it; instead, use a light touch to enhance your dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 3 days.
Freezing Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Ground Beef and Broccoli, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions:
Can I use frozen broccoli for Ground Beef and Broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to the dish.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can add carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition. Customize according to your preferences!
How do I make this recipe healthier?
Opt for lean ground beef or a plant-based alternative. You can also reduce sugar in the sauce without losing flavor.
Can I make Ground Beef and Broccoli ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead, stored in the refrigerator, and reheated when needed.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is not only quick but also delicious and versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep! Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the sauce ingredients to suit your taste.
Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground Beef and Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines tender ground beef with fresh broccoli in a savory sauce, all ready in just 30 minutes! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, making it a family favorite. The rich flavors of soy sauce, brown sugar, and honey elevate the dish while the vibrant colors and textures make every bite satisfying. Serve it over rice for a complete meal or customize it with your favorite vegetables for an extra nutritional boost. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or meal prep option, this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe delivers on taste and convenience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 yellow onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- Soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Honey
- Garlic
- Ginger
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: wash broccoli, dice onion, slice bell pepper, and mince garlic.
- Heat peanut oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook ground beef until browned (about 5 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add onions and bell pepper; sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in broccoli florets; cook until vibrant green (about 5 minutes).
- Whisk together cornstarch with cold water; then mix in beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet; stir to coat all ingredients and cook for another 5 minutes until thickened.
- Serve over cooked rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
