Ground Beef and Broccoli

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a delightful dish that brings together tender broccoli and savory ground beef in a rich stir-fry sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this 30-minute meal is not just quick but also packed with flavor. The combination of fresh ingredients and a slightly sweet sauce makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

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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:
• 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
• With Noodles
• Garnished with Green Onions
• Topped with Nuts
• Wrapped in Lettuce
• With Extra Sauce
• How to Perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli
• Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Broccoli
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Ground Beef and Broccoli
• Reheating Ground Beef and Broccoli
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
• What can I substitute for ground beef?
• How do I make my Ground Beef and Broccoli spicier?
• Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Sauce: The rich, slightly sweet stir-fry sauce enhances the taste of ground beef and broccoli perfectly.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your choice of vegetables or proteins for a unique twist every time.
• Family-Friendly: A satisfying meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Easy Clean-Up: One-pan cooking means less mess and more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Small container for cornstarch mixture
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for stir-frying ingredients evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing the sauce and combining ingredients without cluttering your workspace.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to prepare Ground Beef and Broccoli:

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)

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 it to a boil. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Shake the cornstarch mixture again, then slowly stir 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 until combined. 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 simple yet versatile. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Over Rice

• Serve the stir-fry over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty dinner. Long-grain white or jasmine rice works well, absorbing the delicious sauce.

With Noodles

• Toss the Ground Beef and Broccoli with cooked noodles. Choose lo mein or rice noodles for a delightful twist on traditional stir-fry.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Add sliced green onions on top for a fresh crunch. This garnish not only adds flavor but also a pop of color.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews over the dish. The nuts provide extra texture and richness, complementing the savory beef and tender broccoli.

Wrapped in Lettuce

• For a low-carb option, serve the mixture in lettuce cups. This gives a refreshing crunch while allowing you to enjoy all the flavors without the rice.

With Extra Sauce

• If you love saucy dishes, serve additional sauce on the side. This way, everyone can add their preferred amount to their plate.

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How to Perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli

Making Ground Beef and Broccoli perfectly takes a few tips. Follow these suggestions for a delicious result every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality ground beef will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness according to your preference.
• Don’t overcook: Ensure you cook the broccoli just until tender to maintain its vibrant color and crunch.
• Combine sauce well: Make sure to mix your cornstarch slurry thoroughly before adding it to avoid lumps in your sauce.
• Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cook rice perfectly: Follow precise measurements for cooking rice to achieve that perfect fluffy texture.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Broccoli

Pairing side dishes with Ground Beef and Broccoli can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this dish well.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice
   A fragrant option that absorbs flavors beautifully. Serve it as a base for your stir-fry.

2. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread is an excellent choice for sopping up any leftover sauce from your plate.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds a healthy touch alongside your main dish.

4. Asian Cucumber Salad
   This refreshing salad balances out the savory stir-fry with its crispness and tangy dressing.

5. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup can be a comforting starter that complements your main course perfectly.

6. Fried Rice
   Leftover fried rice makes an excellent pairing, adding more flavor and texture to your meal while making it heartier.

7. Spring Rolls
   Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies provide a crunchy contrast to the tender beef and broccoli stir-fry.

8. Sesame Noodles
   Cold sesame noodles drizzled with soy sauce make an easy side that pairs beautifully with this dish’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ground Beef and Broccoli, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish significantly. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sauce Preparation: Many people overlook preparing the sauce separately before cooking. This step is crucial for ensuring all ingredients are properly combined and flavored.

• Overcooking the Broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy. Aim for a bright green color and slight tenderness by cooking it for only 4-5 minutes.

• Not Seasoning the Beef: Failing to season ground beef can lead to bland flavors. Use salt and white pepper to enhance its taste before cooking.

• Adding Cornstarch Too Early: Adding cornstarch too soon can result in a lumpy sauce. Wait until the broth mixture is boiling before incorporating it.

• Using Cold Rice: Serving your Ground Beef and Broccoli over cold rice can detract from the meal’s overall enjoyment. Make sure your rice is warm when serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• item Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Ground Beef and Broccoli

• item Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• item Label containers with the date for better tracking of freshness.

Reheating Ground Beef and Broccoli

• item Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• item Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• item Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Ground Beef and Broccoli:

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just thaw it, pat dry, and proceed with the recipe as directed.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative while maintaining similar flavors.

How do I make my Ground Beef and Broccoli spicier?

To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha into the sauce according to your taste preference.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Ground Beef and Broccoli is great for meal prep as it stores well in both the fridge and freezer.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a versatile dish that combines savory beef with fresh broccoli in a delightful stir-fry sauce. It’s not only quick to prepare but also customizable with various vegetables or proteins. Try this recipe today and enjoy a healthy dinner that everyone will love!