Ground Beef And Broccoli Recipe

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick and easy stir-fry recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines savory ground beef with crisp-tender broccoli in a flavorful sauce that is both sweet and salty, making it a great alternative to traditional takeout meals. Not only is this recipe simple to make, but it’s also budget-friendly and packed with protein and vegetables. Whether you’re meal prepping or just looking for a fast, healthy dinner option, this Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is sure to hit the spot. Keep reading for the complete recipe, tips, and variations!

What Is Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a variation of the classic beef and broccoli stir-fry, but instead of using sliced beef, ground beef is substituted for a quicker and more budget-friendly option. It’s typically made by browning the ground beef, cooking it with fresh broccoli florets, and tossing it all in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of sweetness. It’s often served over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal, but it can also be enjoyed on its own for a low-carb option.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef and Broccoli

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
• 2 tablespoon vegetable oil or sesame oil (for cooking)

For the Sauce:

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or honey)
• ½ cup beef broth or water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice (optional, for acidity)

For Serving:

• Steamed rice or noodles
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Sliced green onions (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

• Protein Options: You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork if you prefer a lighter or different protein. You can also use crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Vegetable Variations: Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms for more texture and nutrition. Frozen broccoli can also be used in place of fresh.
• Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb version, serve the stir-fry over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of regular rice.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, and make sure your oyster sauce and hoisin sauce are also gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Before you start cooking, make sure to prep your ingredients by mincing the garlic, ginger, and onions, and cutting the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and cornstarch. Add sesame oil (if using), rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes to taste. Set the sauce aside.
3. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger for about 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and softened. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and begin to soften. You want the broccoli to remain slightly crisp-tender, so don’t overcook it.
5. Combine Beef and Sauce: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir the sauce once more to ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved, then pour it over the beef and broccoli. Stir everything together, ensuring the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly.
6. Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the broccoli is fully cooked but still crisp-tender. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water or beef broth to thin it out.
7. Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve the Ground Beef and Broccoli over steamed rice, noodles, or your favorite grain.

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

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a simple and quick recipe, but a few key steps can help ensure your dish turns out perfect. Browning the ground beef properly is essential for developing flavor, so cook it until it’s fully browned and any excess fat is drained. For the vegetables, stir-frying at high heat helps them retain their color and crispness, especially the broccoli. Lastly, make sure the sauce is mixed well before adding it to the pan so the cornstarch thickens the sauce properly and evenly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Broccoli: One of the most common mistakes is overcooking the broccoli. You want it to be tender but still have a slight crunch. Cooking it for too long can make it mushy.
• Not Draining the Beef: If your ground beef has a lot of fat, make sure to drain the excess fat before combining it with the sauce. Otherwise, the dish may end up greasy.
• Sauce Too Thin or Thick: If your sauce is too thick, simply add more broth or water. If it’s too thin, allow it to simmer a bit longer, or mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in to thicken.
• Not Enough Sauce: If you like your stir-fries saucier, feel free to double the sauce ingredients so there’s more to coat the beef and broccoli.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a complete meal, serve Ground Beef and Broccoli over steamed rice, brown rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a pop of color and added texture. Pair the dish with a light side salad or a bowl of miso soup to make it a more substantial meal. If you're feeling fancy, serve the dish in bowls with chopsticks for an authentic takeout-inspired experience.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

Ground Beef and Broccoli is best served hot and fresh from the skillet. It’s perfect over a bed of fluffy steamed rice, but you can also serve it with noodles like soba or udon. For a healthier twist, you can pair it with cauliflower rice, spiralized vegetables, or even in lettuce wraps for a fun, low-carb meal. If you're serving it for a family dinner, consider setting up a stir-fry bar with various toppings like chopped peanuts, shredded carrots, or sliced bell peppers so everyone can customize their bowls.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Broccoli

For a visually appealing presentation, arrange the Ground Beef and Broccoli over rice in individual bowls, then garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and a drizzle of extra sesame oil for added flavor. You can also sprinkle crushed peanuts or cashews for a crunchy texture. For a more vibrant presentation, add colorful bell peppers or red chili flakes on top. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh burst of acidity.

Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe Tips

• Meal Prep: Ground Beef and Broccoli is a great recipe for meal prep. Make a big batch and store individual portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
• Thicker Sauce: If you like a thicker sauce, add a bit more cornstarch (about ½ teaspoon) dissolved in water to the sauce while it simmers.
• More Veggies: For extra nutrition and texture, add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the stir-fry. You can also throw in frozen veggies straight from the freezer—just increase the cooking time slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe with frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to thaw it slightly and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet. You may also need to cook it for an extra minute or two to ensure it's heated through.

How long does Ground Beef and Broccoli last in the fridge?
This dish will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. It also reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.

Can I make Ground Beef and Broccoli ahead of time?
Yes! Ground Beef and Broccoli is perfect for meal prep. Cook everything ahead of time, then store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat it in a skillet or the microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze Ground Beef and Broccoli?
Yes, you can freeze Ground Beef and Broccoli. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork as a substitute for ground beef, or even try tofu for a vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a delicious, quick, and easy stir-fry that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its savory sauce, tender beef, and crisp-tender broccoli, this dish is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for meal prep or last-minute meals. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or as a low-carb option with cauliflower rice, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. So grab your skillet and enjoy the flavors of this classic takeout-inspired dish!

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