Ground Beef and Broccoli
This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and delicious meal. In just 30 minutes, you can savor a dish that combines tender beef with fresh broccoli in an irresistible sauce. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend family dinner, this recipe fits seamlessly into any occasion. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This meal takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- Flavorful Sauce: A simple yet delicious sauce enhances the taste of both the beef and broccoli, creating a well-rounded dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute vegetables or adjust seasonings to cater to your family’s preferences.
- Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from ground beef and vitamins from broccoli, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks together in one pan.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking of the beef and vegetables while helping to develop flavor.
- Wooden Spoon: This tool helps gently stir the ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements ensure that the sauce comes out perfectly balanced every time.
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry
- 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 gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion, slice the bell pepper, and wash the broccoli florets.
Step 2: Heat Oil in Skillet
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the peanut oil. Once hot, add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned. Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Stir in the sliced red bell pepper and broccoli florets. Cook for about 5 minutes until tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Then combine beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, ginger, and toasted sesame oil in another bowl. Stir well.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked beef and vegetables in the skillet. Stir well until everything is coated. Bring to a simmer for about 2–3 minutes until thickened.
Step 7: Serve
Serve your delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli over cooked rice. Enjoy this hearty meal with family or friends!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ground Beef and Broccoli is a versatile dish that can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or hosting friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.
Over Rice
- Serve the Ground Beef and Broccoli mixture over a bed of fluffy cooked rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
In Lettuce Wraps
- For a fresh twist, spoon the beef and broccoli into crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for a fun, low-carb option that’s perfect for parties.
With Noodles
- Toss the Ground Beef and Broccoli with cooked Asian-style noodles for an alternative take on this classic dish. It adds an extra layer of texture and flavor.
As a Meal Prep Option
- Divide the Ground Beef and Broccoli into meal prep containers along with sides like rice or vegetables. This makes it easy to grab a healthy lunch throughout the week.
With a Side Salad
- Pairing this dish with a light salad can balance out the flavors. A simple mix of greens with a vinaigrette works wonderfully.
In Tacos
- Use soft tortillas to create Ground Beef and Broccoli tacos. Top them with avocado, cheese, or salsa for added flavor and crunch.
How to Perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Ground Beef and Broccoli, follow these helpful tips.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh broccoli and high-quality ground beef enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Cook at High Heat: Searing the beef quickly at high heat helps lock in moisture while creating depth in flavor.
- Add Sauce Gradually: Pour in your sauce slowly to ensure every piece of meat and vegetable is evenly coated.
- Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness based on your preference.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let it sit for a few minutes before serving; this allows flavors to meld together nicely.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ground Beef and Broccoli pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its fragrant aroma pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the dish.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds a delightful contrast to the tender beef and broccoli.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of stir-fried veggies enhances both nutrition and presentation.
- Fried Rice: Leftover rice sautéed with eggs and peas makes an excellent accompaniment that absorbs all those delicious juices.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds crunchiness, balancing out the rich flavors of Ground Beef and Broccoli.
- Egg Drop Soup: This light soup offers warmth and is an easy addition that complements any Asian-inspired meal.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-rich quinoa salad with fresh herbs can provide additional nutrients while keeping things light.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes provides an appealing contrast to the savory dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Ground Beef and Broccoli, even small mistakes can impact the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using wet broccoli: Starting with wet broccoli can lead to steaming instead of sautéing. Always wash and pat dry your broccoli florets before cooking.
- Overcooking the beef: Ground beef should be cooked just until browned. Overcooking can make it dry and tough; aim for a juicy texture by monitoring closely.
- Neglecting seasoning: Skipping on salt or other seasonings results in bland food. Taste as you go, and adjust flavors to suit your preference.
- Not letting sauce thicken: If you don’t allow the sauce to thicken properly, it may end up too watery. Give it a few extra minutes after adding cornstarch for best results.
- Ignoring cooking times: Rushing through cooking can lead to unevenly cooked ingredients. Stick to the recommended cooking times for perfect results.
- Forgetting about rice preparation: Ensure your rice is fully cooked before serving. Using leftover rice makes this dish quicker and easier!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date so you can track freshness.
Reheating Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed all the way through, about 2-4 minutes depending on portion size.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, usually taking around 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli?
This dish goes well with rice, noodles, or even quinoa. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for added crunch.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen broccoli! Just adjust the cooking time slightly because frozen broccoli may require a bit more time to become tender.
How do I make this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe healthier?
You can use leaner ground beef or substitute turkey for a lighter option. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers adds nutrition without many calories.
Is this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep since it stores well in the fridge or freezer. Just separate portions into containers for easy access throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef and Broccoli is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that your family will love. This versatile recipe allows for customization—you can add different vegetables or adjust sauces according to your taste preferences. Give it a try; it’s bound to become a favorite at your dinner table!
Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground Beef and Broccoli is an irresistible, quick meal perfect for busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes, this savory dish combines tender ground beef and fresh broccoli in a flavorful sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether served over rice or nestled in lettuce wraps, it caters to all occasions—from family dinners to meal prep. With its easy preparation and versatile ingredients, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- Peanut oil (or vegetable/olive oil)
- Soy sauce
- Beef broth
- Brown sugar
- Honey
- Garlic
- Ginger
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch (+ 2 tablespoons cold water)
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping onions and slicing the bell pepper.
- Heat peanut oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sauté onions until translucent.
- Add ground beef; cook until browned and season with salt and white pepper.
- Stir in broccoli florets and red bell pepper; cook until tender yet crisp (about 5 minutes).
- In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water, then combine with beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
- Pour sauce over the skillet mixture; stir well to coat everything and simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
- Serve hot over rice or in lettuce wraps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
