Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe

If you're looking for a quick, nutritious, and absolutely delicious recipe to add to your weekly dinner rotation, look no further than this Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal without the hassle, this dish is packed with flavor, protein, and healthy vegetables. Whether you’re a novice cook or a kitchen expert, this guide will walk you through every step. Stick around for all the details on ingredients, substitutions, cooking tips, and more!

this Recipe

What Is Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Ground beef and broccoli is a savory dish that pairs tender broccoli with well-seasoned ground beef, often served with rice or noodles. Inspired by Asian cuisine, this dish uses simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to create a rich, umami-packed sauce that coats the beef and broccoli beautifully. The best part? It’s a one-pan recipe that’s ready in just under 30 minutes!

Ready to elevate your home-cooked meals? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients List for Ground Beef and Broccoli

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients for the perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe. These are the essentials:

• 1 lb ground beef: Lean ground beef works best, but feel free to use regular ground beef or a mixture of beef and pork for added flavor.
• 3 cups broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli is ideal, but you can also use frozen broccoli if that's what you have on hand.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key to building that signature flavor.
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced: Ginger adds a spicy warmth and brightens the dish.
• ¼ cup soy sauce: Use low-sodium if you want to control the salt content.
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: This provides a rich, slightly sweet, and savory flavor to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: For a nutty aroma and rich flavor.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Balances the richness of the beef with a touch of acidity.
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce for a silky finish.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: For seasoning.
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil: Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for stir-frying.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a bit of heat, if you like spice in your dish.
• Cooked rice or noodles (optional): To serve the dish over.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about the Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

Protein Substitutions

• Ground turkey or chicken: If you're trying to cut back on red meat, ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe. Just be sure to season generously, as these proteins tend to be milder.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian or vegan option, firm tofu can be substituted. Press the tofu beforehand to remove excess water, then crumble or cube it.

Vegetable Variations

• Cauliflower: Swap out broccoli for cauliflower for a slightly different taste and texture.
• Green beans: These are also a great vegetable choice, adding a slight crunch.
• Mixed stir-fry veggies: A mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas can add a splash of color and variety.

Sauce Alternatives

• Tamari or coconut aminos: If you’re gluten-free, tamari or coconut aminos can be used instead of soy sauce.
• Honey or brown sugar: If you like a touch of sweetness in your dish, add 1 teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the sauce mixture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's dive into the cooking process. This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve a perfectly cooked Ground Beef and Broccoli dish.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, wash and cut your broccoli into bite-sized florets. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and ginger. Having all your ingredients ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up into small crumbles with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Aromatics

Push the ground beef to one side of the pan, and in the empty space, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli

Toss in the broccoli florets and stir everything together. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, allowing the broccoli to get tender but still maintain a bit of crunch. If using frozen broccoli, it may take slightly longer.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Pour this sauce into the pan and stir well to coat all the ingredients. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken and absorb into the beef and broccoli.

Step 6: Season and Finish

Season with black pepper and red pepper flakes if desired. Give everything a final stir, making sure the sauce is evenly distributed. Your Ground Beef and Broccoli is now ready to be served!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your dish turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Overcooking the broccoli: Broccoli should be bright green and slightly crunchy, not mushy. Keep an eye on it as it cooks.
2. Not draining the beef: Excess grease can make the dish too oily. Drain the fat after cooking the beef if necessary.
3. Skipping the cornstarch: This ingredient is essential for thickening the sauce, so don’t leave it out unless you prefer a thinner sauce.
4. Not prepping ingredients beforehand: The cooking process is quick, so have everything ready to go before you start cooking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when it comes to making a dish look as good as it tastes. Here are some tips to elevate your Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe:

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

• Over Rice: Serve the beef and broccoli over steamed white or brown rice. The rice will absorb the savory sauce, making each bite flavorful.
• With Noodles: Stir-fried noodles like lo mein or chow mein pair perfectly with this dish.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the beef and broccoli in lettuce wraps. The crisp, cool lettuce contrasts nicely with the warm, savory filling.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Broccoli

• Garnish with sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds visual appeal and a nice crunch.
• Top with fresh scallions: Thinly sliced scallions give a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
• Serve with a wedge of lime: A squeeze of lime juice brightens the dish and adds a zesty contrast to the richness of the beef.

Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe Tips

• Make it spicy: If you love spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some Sriracha to the sauce.
• Prep ahead of time: You can pre-cut the broccoli, onion, garlic, and ginger up to a day in advance to save time.
• Double the recipe: This dish makes great leftovers! Double the ingredients and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Use a large skillet: To ensure even cooking, use a large skillet or wok so you have plenty of room to stir-fry without crowding the pan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to thaw it before adding it to the pan. You may also need to cook it a little longer to achieve the desired texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Ground beef and broccoli reheat well, making it a great option for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which are gluten-free alternatives.

What can I serve with ground beef and broccoli?

Besides rice or noodles, you can serve this dish with a side of steamed dumplings, egg rolls, or a light cucumber salad to balance the rich flavors.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze ground beef and broccoli. Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a hit. With its rich, savory sauce and nutritious ingredients, you’ll find yourself making this recipe again and again. So, grab your skillet and get ready to whip up this delicious meal in no time!

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