Ground Beef and Broccoli

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s quick, delicious, and packed with goodness, then this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is just what you need! It’s one of my go-to dishes when I want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when everyone’s rushing home, but it also shines during family gatherings or casual get-togethers. Trust me; the combination of savory ground beef and crisp broccoli will have everyone asking for seconds!

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special yet comes together in only 20 minutes. How wonderful is that?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the tender beef and vibrant broccoli, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones.
• Versatile Flavor: The sweet and savory sauce brings out the best in both the beef and broccoli.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple ingredients that make this Ground Beef and Broccoli shine. You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or local grocery store, so no need to stress!

For the Stir-Fry

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 3-4 cups broccoli florets (see note)
• 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground sirloin)
• 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 8-10 cranks freshly-ground black pepper

For Garnish

• sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add some sriracha to give it a kick!
• Go gluten-free: Substitute tamari for soy sauce to make it gluten-free without losing flavor.

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Sauté the Broccoli

Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil starts shimmering, add your fresh broccoli florets. Cook them while tossing frequently for about 3-4 minutes until they are vibrantly green and tender-crisp. This step is key because perfectly sautéed broccoli adds great texture to your dish! Remove them from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In the same skillet, add your ground beef along with minced garlic. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until it’s mostly browned. As you cook, break it into small pieces—this ensures every bite is packed with flavor. If there’s excess fat after cooking, be sure to drain it off or soak it up with a paper towel.

Step 3: Whisk Together Your Sauce

While your beef cooks away, grab a small bowl or liquid measuring cup to combine your soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, ginger, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth. This sauce provides that sweet-savory kick we all love!

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

As soon as your beef has browned nicely, pour in that delicious sauce from Step 3. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly—this step allows all those flavors to meld beautifully! Finally, return your sautéed broccoli back into the pan and toss everything gently to coat. Season with salt to taste before serving over rice or noodles.

And there you have it—a vibrant plate of Ground Beef and Broccoli ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Broccoli

Making a delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli dish is easier than you think, especially with a few handy tips!

• Prep your ingredients ahead of time: Having everything chopped and measured before you start cooking can save you time and reduce stress during the cooking process. This way, you can focus on enjoying the cooking experience.
• Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef (like ground sirloin) helps to keep the dish healthier by reducing fat content. Plus, it cooks faster and absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli: Keeping the broccoli tender-crisp not only enhances the color but also preserves its nutrients. A quick sauté ensures that it remains vibrant and flavorful.
• Experiment with spice levels: Adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes allows you to customize the heat level to your preference. If you’re serving kids or those sensitive to spice, feel free to cut back!
• Serve immediately for best results: This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove while it’s hot and saucy. Reheating can change the texture of both the beef and broccoli, so enjoy it right away!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

This hearty dish is versatile enough to suit any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to more polished gatherings. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful meal.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: Sprinkling sesame seeds on top adds a lovely crunch and a touch of elegance.
• Chopped green onions: Freshly sliced green onions bring brightness and enhance flavor, making your dish look even more appetizing.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine rice: The fragrant rice perfectly complements the savory sauce of the ground beef and broccoli while absorbing all those delicious flavors.
• Stir-fried noodles: Tossed in a bit of soy sauce or sesame oil, stir-fried noodles make an excellent base for this dish, adding a satisfying chewiness.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad balances out the savory notes with its crispness and light tanginess, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory dish, offering a delightful mix of flavors on your plate.

Now you’re ready to whip up this easy Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create a meal that’s not just delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it for later, ensuring that you always have a quick and satisfying dinner option on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Divide the dish into individual portions for easier thawing.
• Place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish, covered, at medium power until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that can help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use other vegetables in my Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added flavor and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on the veggies you choose.

How do I make Ground Beef and Broccoli healthier?

You can make this dish healthier by using lean ground beef, reducing sugar in the sauce, or increasing the amount of broccoli. Whole grain rice or noodles are great alternatives as well!

Is Ground Beef and Broccoli suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick weeknight dinners.

What should I serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles but is also delicious on its own. Consider serving it with a side salad for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe as delightful as I do! It’s quick to prepare but doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Enjoy making this dish for yourself or your loved ones—it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Happy cooking!