Are you looking for a quick and satisfying meal that your whole family will love? Look no further than this delightful ground beef and broccoli recipe! Packed with flavor and nutrition, this dish combines tender pieces of ground beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce that brings everything together beautifully. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. This means you can spend more time enjoying your meal rather than slaving away in the kitchen. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spices to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting friends over the weekend, this ground beef and broccoli recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option that still delivers great flavor
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Select bright green florets without any yellowing for the best texture
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth of flavor; use minced garlic for convenience
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while enhancing the dish’s umami flavor
- Cornstarch: This ingredient acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, giving it a nice consistency
For the Sauce:
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth as a base to enrich the sauce without overwhelming saltiness
- Sesame Oil: A dash of sesame oil adds an authentic Asian flavor profile to the dish
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by washing the fresh broccoli thoroughly under running water. Cut it into bite-sized florets so they cook evenly.
Step 2: Cook Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Once the beef is fully cooked, stir in minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not burned.
Step 4: Add Broccoli
Mix in the prepared broccoli florets. Pour in beef broth enough to cover halfway up the florets. Cover the skillet with a lid and let steam for about five minutes until tender.
Step 5: Make Sauce
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Remove the lid from the skillet. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and broccoli. Stir continuously until thickened—about two minutes more.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with more sesame oil if desired for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to substitute chicken or tofu if you’re looking for alternatives
- Add More Vegetables: Try including bell peppers or carrots alongside broccoli for added color
How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli
This Ground Beef and Broccoli is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the ground beef in advance by browning it in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days before adding it to your broccoli.
- Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the ground beef and broccoli mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. You can also use a microwave on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Suggestions for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Avoid Overcooking the Beef
Overcooking ground beef can lead to a dry and unappetizing dish. To maintain moisture and flavor, cook the beef until it is just browned. This typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes over medium heat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 160°F, which will kill any harmful bacteria while keeping the beef juicy. Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking or burning. Remember that residual heat will continue to cook the beef after you remove it from the stove, so take it off just before it reaches that perfect brown. By avoiding overcooked beef, you enhance the overall taste of your ground beef and broccoli dish.
Choose Fresh Broccoli
Using fresh broccoli is crucial for creating a delicious ground beef and broccoli meal. Fresh broccoli retains its nutrients and has a crisp texture that complements the tender beef. When selecting broccoli, look for tight florets and vibrant green color without yellowing or wilting. If possible, buy organic broccoli to minimize pesticide exposure. Before cooking, wash the broccoli thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or residues. Cut the stems into uniform pieces for even cooking, ensuring that they are tender yet crunchy. Using fresh ingredients like broccoli enhances not only flavor but also nutrition in your meal.
Season Generously
Proper seasoning elevates ground beef and broccoli from bland to flavorful. Start with salt and pepper as your base seasonings; they enhance the natural flavors of your ingredients. Consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or soy sauce for depth of taste. Additionally, incorporating ginger can provide a refreshing kick that pairs perfectly with both beef and broccoli. Always taste your dish during cooking to adjust seasoning levels as needed; this ensures balanced flavors throughout the meal. Remember, well-seasoned food not only tastes better but also makes dining more enjoyable for everyone at your table.
Balance Sauce Thickness
The sauce in your ground beef and broccoli recipe should complement rather than overpower the dish. A common mistake is making the sauce too thick or too watery. Aim for a consistency that lightly coats the meat and vegetables but allows them to shine through. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water until you reach your desired consistency; if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken naturally. A balanced sauce enhances flavor without masking the star ingredients—ground beef and broccoli—creating a harmonious meal.
FAQs
What is the best way to store leftover ground beef and broccoli?
To store leftover ground beef and broccoli properly, allow it to cool down before placing it in an airtight container. This prevents moisture buildup that can lead to sogginess or spoilage. Store leftovers in the refrigerator if you plan on consuming them within three days; otherwise, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for longer storage up to three months. When reheating, use low heat on the stovetop or microwave until heated through evenly. This method helps retain texture while ensuring food safety.
Can I substitute other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes! While traditional recipes feature broccoli, feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for variety in flavor and nutrition. Make sure to adjust cooking times based on how quickly each vegetable cooks; for example, bell peppers may require less time than carrots when sautéing with ground beef. Substituting vegetables also allows you to cater this recipe according to seasonal availability or personal preference while still enjoying a delicious meal.
Is there a vegetarian version of ground beef and broccoli?
Absolutely! You can create a vegetarian version using plant-based meat alternatives like tofu or tempeh instead of ground beef while keeping everything else similar in preparation style. For added flavor, marinate tofu in soy sauce or teriyaki sauce before cooking it alongside your chosen vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers. This substitution retains similar textures while providing excellent protein sources without meat products—perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for lighter options.
How can I make my dish gluten-free?
Making gluten-free ground beef and broccoli is straightforward! First, ensure that any sauces used are labeled gluten-free; many soy sauces contain wheat unless specified otherwise. Alternatively, use tamari as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce without sacrificing flavor. You can also thicken sauces with cornstarch instead of traditional flour-based methods if necessary while preparing this dish at home—ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious meal without worry!
Conclusion for Ground Beef and Broccoli
In summary, crafting an outstanding ground beef and broccoli dish requires attention to detail in multiple areas—from choosing fresh ingredients and proper seasoning techniques to ensuring correct cooking times for optimal textures. Avoid common pitfalls like overcooking meat or using wilted vegetables by following best practices outlined above. Additionally, consider dietary preferences by exploring vegetarian options or gluten-free alternatives that still deliver great taste without compromising health benefits! By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll create delicious meals everyone will love every time you serve up this classic combination!
Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will enjoy. This vibrant dish features tender ground beef paired with crisp broccoli florets, all enveloped in a savory sauce that strikes the perfect balance between flavor and simplicity. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights without sacrificing nutrition or taste. Customize your meal by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your palate. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal, or savor it on its own for a satisfying low-carb option.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add oil and cook ground beef until browned.
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for one minute.
- Add broccoli and enough beef broth to cover halfway; steam for five minutes.
- Mix soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Pour over the beef and broccoli mixture, stirring until thickened (about two minutes).
- Serve hot with an optional drizzle of sesame oil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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