Ground Beef And Broccoli Recipe

Craving a quick, nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor? This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is your answer. This one-pan wonder combines savory ground beef with crisp-tender broccoli in a delicious sauce that brings everything together beautifully.

Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something hearty yet healthy, this dish delivers maximum taste with minimal effort. Read on to discover how to create this satisfying meal that will become a regular favorite in your dinner rotation.

What is Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a simplified, budget-friendly version of the classic beef and broccoli stir-fry. Instead of using expensive beef strips, this recipe uses ground beef, making it more affordable while still delivering that beloved savory-sweet flavor profile. The dish combines seasoned ground beef with fresh broccoli florets in a glossy, flavorful sauce that’s reminiscent of your favorite Chinese takeout.

This versatile dish can be served over rice, noodles, or enjoyed on its own for a low-carb option. It’s a complete meal that provides protein, vegetables, and incredible taste all in one satisfying dish.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef and Broccoli

1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ cup beef broth or water
2 green onions, sliced thin
1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
Salt and black pepper to taste

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

Creating this delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli dish is straightforward and takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Here’s how to make it perfectly every time:

1. Prepare the Broccoli:

Cut the broccoli into uniform, bite-sized florets for even cooking.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process, then drain well.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
Season with salt and pepper, cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Remove the beef from the pan and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan if needed.
Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Create the Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil until smooth.
Pour the sauce mixture into the pan with the aromatics.
Add the beef broth and red pepper flakes if using.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce begins to thicken, about 2-3 minutes.

5. Combine and Finish:

Return the cooked ground beef to the pan and stir to coat with the sauce.
Add the blanched broccoli florets and gently toss everything together.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is heated through and everything is well combined.
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is incredibly adaptable. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

Ground Meat: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for different flavor profiles and nutritional benefits.
Broccoli: Try using broccolini, cauliflower florets, or snap peas for variety. Brussels sprouts, halved, also work wonderfully.
Low-Sodium Option: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and increase other seasonings to compensate for flavor.
Gluten-Free: Ensure your soy sauce and oyster sauce are gluten-free, or substitute with tamari and gluten-free oyster sauce.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or water chestnuts for extra texture and nutrition.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding sriracha, fresh chilies, or increasing the red pepper flakes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Ground Beef and Broccoli turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

Overcooking the Broccoli: Broccoli should remain crisp-tender. Overcooked broccoli becomes mushy and loses its vibrant color and nutritional value.
Not Draining the Ground Beef: Excess grease can make the dish oily and prevent the sauce from adhering properly to the ingredients.
Skipping the Blanching Step: Raw broccoli takes too long to cook in the stir-fry, while blanched broccoli maintains perfect texture and color.
Using Too Much Cornstarch: This can make the sauce gummy. Start with the recommended amount and add more gradually if needed.
Not Having All Ingredients Ready: Stir-frying happens quickly, so have everything prepped and ready before you start cooking.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

Ground Beef and Broccoli is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. For a traditional approach, serve it over steamed white or brown rice, which absorbs the delicious sauce beautifully. For a lighter option, try it over cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles.

If you’re looking for something more substantial, serve it over lo mein noodles, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes for a fusion twist. For those following a low-carb lifestyle, the dish is perfectly satisfying on its own, or you can serve it over zucchini noodles.

A simple side of steamed dumplings or egg rolls can turn this into a complete Chinese-inspired feast. For balance, consider adding a light cucumber salad or some pickled vegetables on the side.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Broccoli

Make your Ground Beef and Broccoli look as good as it tastes with these presentation tips:

Colorful Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and a few drops of sesame oil on top for visual appeal and added flavor.
Bowl Presentation: Serve in individual bowls over rice with the beef and broccoli arranged on top, drizzled with any remaining sauce.
Family Style: Present in a large serving dish with rice on the side, allowing everyone to serve themselves.
Lettuce Wraps: For a fun twist, serve with butter lettuce leaves for DIY wraps.

Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe Tips

Here are some professional tips to elevate your Ground Beef and Broccoli:

Choose the Right Ground Beef: 80/20 ground beef provides the best balance of flavor and moisture without being too greasy.
High Heat Cooking: Use medium-high to high heat throughout the cooking process to achieve the best texture and flavor development.
Fresh Ginger: Always use fresh ginger rather than powdered for the most vibrant flavor. You can peel it easily with a spoon.
Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thin, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in. If too thick, add a splash of broth.
Make It Ahead: You can prep all ingredients in advance, but cook just before serving for the best texture.
Double the Sauce: Consider making extra sauce if you love it particularly saucy, as it keeps well in the refrigerator.

How to Store Ground Beef and Broccoli

Allow the Ground Beef and Broccoli to cool completely before storing (within 2 hours of cooking). Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The dish reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled dish for up to 3 months. However, note that the broccoli texture may change slightly after freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

When reheating, you may need to add a little water or broth to restore the sauce consistency, as it tends to thicken when cold.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, but thaw and drain the frozen broccoli thoroughly first. Add it directly to the pan with the beef and sauce, skipping the blanching step, and cook just until heated through.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add more red pepper flakes, include fresh sliced chilies, or stir in some sriracha or chili garlic sauce to taste.

Q: Can I meal prep this recipe?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is excellent for meal prep. Divide into individual containers with rice for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

Q: What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
A: You can substitute with an additional tablespoon of soy sauce mixed with a teaspoon of brown sugar, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: While this recipe is designed for stovetop cooking, you can adapt it for a slow cooker by browning the beef first, then combining all ingredients except the broccoli in the slow cooker for 3-4 hours on low. Add the broccoli in the last 30 minutes.

Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
A: Yes, if you omit the cornstarch and serve without rice or noodles. The dish is naturally low in carbs when served on its own.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Broccoli proves that delicious, satisfying meals don’t have to be complicated or expensive. This recipe delivers all the flavors you love from Chinese takeout in a healthier, homemade version that’s ready in under 30 minutes. The combination of savory ground beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and that irresistible glossy sauce creates a meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your nutritional needs.

Whether you’re feeding a family on a busy weeknight or looking for a reliable meal prep option, this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe fits the bill perfectly. The simple ingredients and straightforward technique make it accessible to cooks of all skill levels, while the versatility means you can customize it to suit your preferences time and time again.

I encourage you to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to match your family’s tastes. With its perfect balance of protein and vegetables, this dish will quickly become a regular rotation in your meal planning. Happy cooking, and enjoy this delicious, wholesome meal that brings the best of Chinese-inspired flavors right to your dinner table!