Ground Beef and Broccoli

Name: Ground Beef and Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon peanut oil; 3 cups broccoli florets; 1 lb ground beef; 1 yellow onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 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; 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water; 3 cups cooked rice (any kind); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Published: May 12, 2025

by Sofia

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Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick and flavorful meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. This dish features tender broccoli and savory ground beef, all wrapped up in a rich stir-fry sauce that combines sweet and savory elements perfectly. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it over rice for a comforting dinner that the whole family will love!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: You can have this meal ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Sauce: The stir-fry sauce balances sweetness and savory notes, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken to suit your needs.
Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great option for family dinners.
Healthy Choice: Packed with nutritious broccoli, this recipe provides essential vitamins and minerals while being satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Ground Beef and Broccoli, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet or wok
Small container (for cornstarch mixture)
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooking utensil (spatula or wooden spoon)

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for stir-frying all ingredients evenly.
Mixing bowls: Useful for preparing sauces and keeping ingredients organized before cooking.

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry

1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable/olive oil)
3 cups broccoli florets, washed and patted dry
1 lb ground beef
1 yellow onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
Salt and 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)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small container, combine the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Shake or stir well and set aside. In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey (start with 1 tablespoon), garlic, ground ginger, and sesame oil. Set this mixture aside as well.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Heat the peanut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the washed broccoli florets and toss them to coat well with the oil. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until they are slightly softened. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Season the ground beef with salt and white pepper as desired. In the same skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef along with diced onions. Cook while crumbling the beef until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease if necessary. Add sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Pour your prepared sauce into the skillet with cooked beef and vegetables. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce heat slightly to let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Shake your cornstarch mixture again before slowly stirring it into the sauce. Allow it to bubble gently until it reaches your desired thickness.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Lower the heat to low before returning your previously cooked broccoli back into the pan. Stir everything together until combined thoroughly. Serve hot over cooked rice, garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped peanuts if desired. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

Serving Ground Beef and Broccoli can be a delightful experience with various options to enhance the meal. This dish is versatile and pairs well with different accompaniments, making it suitable for any occasion.

Over Rice

Steamed White Rice: The classic choice that absorbs the stir-fry sauce perfectly.
Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor and additional fiber.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that provides a light base for the dish.

With Noodles

Udon Noodles: Thick, chewy noodles that add texture and soak up the sauce.
Rice Noodles: Gluten-free option that offers a delicate, soft bite.
Soba Noodles: Buckwheat noodles that add a unique taste and are rich in nutrients.

Garnished Options

Chopped Green Onions: Adds freshness and a slight crunch on top of the dish.
Sesame Seeds: Provides a nutty flavor and decorative touch.
Chopped Peanuts: For an extra crunch and protein boost.

How to Perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli

To achieve the best results with Ground Beef and Broccoli, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both the flavors and textures of your dish.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality ground beef improve taste significantly.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Aim for crisp-tender broccoli to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
Adjust Sauce Sweetness: Taste your sauce before serving; add honey or brown sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
Cook in Batches: If your pan is crowded, cook the ingredients in batches for even cooking.
Experiment with Spices: Add red pepper flakes or chili paste for some heat if desired.
Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes will help flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Broccoli

Pairing side dishes with Ground Beef and Broccoli can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

Steamed Vegetables: A mix of carrots, snap peas, and bell peppers adds color and nutrition.
Egg Rolls: Crunchy outside with savory fillings complement the stir-fry nicely.
Asian Slaw: A refreshing cabbage slaw with sesame dressing brings a nice contrast in texture.
Miso Soup: Light broth soup enhances umami flavors without overpowering the main dish.
Pickled Vegetables: These provide tanginess that cuts through the richness of the beef.
Spring Rolls: Fresh rolls filled with veggies offer a light touch alongside this hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ground Beef and Broccoli, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips on how to avoid them.

Skipping the Sauce Prep: Not preparing the sauce ahead can lead to uneven flavors. Always mix your sauce ingredients before cooking for better results.
Overcooking the Broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long makes it mushy. Sauté it just until tender to keep its vibrant color and crunch.
Using High Heat for Everything: Cooking at high heat can burn the beef or veggies. Use medium heat for more controlled cooking and even browning.
Not Seasoning Properly: Forgetting to season your ground beef can result in blandness. Don’t skip salt and pepper; adjust to taste as you cook.
Ignoring Leftovers: Leaving leftovers unrefrigerated may cause spoilage. Store any uneaten portions in airtight containers promptly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Ground Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Ground Beef and Broccoli

Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ground Beef and Broccoli

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking the temperature frequently.
Stovetop: Heat over medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick stir-fry dish featuring seasoned ground beef, tender broccoli, and a flavorful sauce served over rice.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! You can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw it, pat it dry, and follow the recipe as directed for best results.

How do I customize Ground Beef and Broccoli?

You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra colors and flavors. Adjust the sauce sweetness with more or less honey as preferred.

What can I serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Serve this dish over rice, quinoa, or noodles. It pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Broccoli is not only quick but also versatile. This dish appeals to families looking for healthy meals that don’t compromise on flavor. Feel free to customize it with different veggies or proteins based on your preferences!

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