Ground Beef And Broccoli Recipe

Looking for a fast, flavorful, and healthy meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight? This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is exactly what you need! Packed with protein, veggies, and delicious umami flavor, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic days when you still want to eat well. With a few simple ingredients and easy cooking steps, you’ll have a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone in your household. Read on for the full recipe, substitutions, variations, and helpful cooking tips to make this meal a regular in your dinner rotation.

this Recipe

What is Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick stir-fry dish that combines savory ground beef, tender broccoli florets, and a flavorful Asian-inspired sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness. It's a simpler, faster version of the popular beef and broccoli stir-fry made with flank steak or beef strips. This recipe is versatile, budget-friendly, and can be paired with rice, noodles, or even served on its own for a low-carb option.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef and Broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need to make Ground Beef and Broccoli:

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean is ideal)
• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or finely chopped
• ⅓ cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce (or oyster sauce)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil (divided)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey (optional for sweetness)
• ¼ cup beef or chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
• Red pepper flakes or sriracha (optional for spice)
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Green onions, sliced, for garnish
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

If you’d like to enhance the flavor of your Ground Beef and Broccoli, consider adding the following ingredients:

• Mushrooms: Adds an extra umami kick and some more texture.
• Carrots: Thinly sliced or julienned carrots add color, crunch, and sweetness.
• Bell Peppers: Red or yellow bell peppers provide a pop of color and a mild, sweet flavor.
• Chili Paste or Sambal Oelek: For a spicy kick, stir in some chili paste or sambal oelek.
• Fish Sauce: Just a teaspoon can add a depth of savory flavor that complements the beef.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to adjust it to suit your dietary preferences or available ingredients. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

• Meat Substitution: If you don’t have ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground pork. Each will bring a slightly different flavor, but they all work well in this dish.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives or crumbled tofu. You can also use tempeh or mushrooms as a protein source.
• Low-Sodium Version: If you’re watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium soy sauce and skip the hoisin sauce or replace it with a splash of coconut aminos.
• Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure that any sauces like hoisin or oyster sauce are labeled gluten-free.
• Low-Carb/Keto: Skip the brown sugar or honey and serve the Ground Beef and Broccoli on its own, or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down the cooking process into easy, manageable steps:

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, season it with salt and pepper, and cook until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the diced onion and cook until it softens, about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Steam the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, along with ¼ cup of broth or water. Cover the skillet and let the broccoli steam for 3-5 minutes, until it’s bright green and tender but still crisp.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar (if using), and cornstarch (if you prefer a thicker sauce). If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
5. Combine Everything: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the sauce over everything and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened and everything is well coated.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the Ground Beef and Broccoli with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or a low-carb alternative like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

How to Cook Ground Beef and Broccoli: A Step-by-Step Guide

For those who love a quick reference, here’s a simple guide to ensure your Ground Beef and Broccoli turns out perfectly every time:

1. Brown the Beef: Cook ground beef in a skillet, then drain excess fat and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger for flavor.
3. Cook the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli in the skillet until it’s tender.
4. Make the Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, hoisin, vinegar, and other sauce ingredients.
5. Combine: Return the beef to the skillet, add the sauce, and toss to coat.
6. Serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve with rice or noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Draining the Fat: Ground beef can release a lot of fat when cooked. If you don’t drain the excess fat, the dish can become greasy and overpowering. Use a leaner cut of beef or drain the fat for a lighter dish.
2. Overcooking the Broccoli: You want the broccoli to remain bright green and slightly crisp. Overcooking it will cause it to become mushy and lose its vibrant color. Keep an eye on it while steaming!
3. Not Adjusting the Sauce: Depending on your personal preference, you may want a thicker or thinner sauce. Adjust the consistency by adding more cornstarch (for thicker) or water (for thinner).
4. Undersalting: Since soy sauce and hoisin sauce are both salty, you may think you don’t need to season the dish. However, taste as you go, and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Ground Beef and Broccoli dish can be served in a variety of ways depending on your preferences and dietary needs. Here are some serving suggestions:

1. Serve Over Steamed Rice: This dish pairs perfectly with fluffy jasmine rice, basmati rice, or even brown rice for a whole-grain option.
2. With Noodles: Serve the ground beef and broccoli over lo mein noodles or rice noodles for a fun twist on the traditional stir-fry.
3. Low-Carb Option: If you’re cutting back on carbs, serve the dish over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or even just on its own with a side salad.
4. In Lettuce Wraps: Another low-carb option is to serve the Ground Beef and Broccoli in crisp lettuce wraps for a crunchy, refreshing meal.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

• Over Rice: Serve the Ground Beef and Broccoli over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• In a Bowl: Make a rice or noodle bowl with toppings like sliced avocado, radishes, or even a fried egg for added protein.
• In Meal Prep Containers: This dish makes excellent leftovers, so portion it out in meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Broccoli

• Garnish with Sesame Seeds and Green Onions: A sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions adds a bright, fresh finish to the dish.
• Serve in a Wok: If you’re serving this for guests, present it in the wok or skillet for a fun, family-style presentation.
• Add a Pop of Color: For extra visual appeal, garnish with thinly sliced red chili peppers or use a mix of colorful vegetables like red bell peppers and carrots.

Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe Tips

• Make it Spicy: For those who love heat, add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the stir-fry sauce. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the finished dish.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.
• Freeze for Later: You can freeze Ground Beef and Broccoli for up to 3 months. Just cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can! If using frozen broccoli, simply thaw it slightly before adding it to the skillet. You may not need to steam it for as long as fresh broccoli, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

3. Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! Ground Beef and Broccoli is great for meal prep. You can cook it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat and enjoy whenever you’re ready.

4. Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be! Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and make sure all sauces (like hoisin or oyster) are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is the perfect combination of flavor, simplicity, and nutrition. With its savory beef, tender broccoli, and a mouthwatering sauce, it’s a meal that will please the whole family. Whether you’re serving it over rice, noodles, or keeping it low-carb, this dish is versatile and easy to customize to your preferences. Best of all, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Try it out today, and enjoy a healthy, delicious dinner that’s sure to become a staple in your home!

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