Whip up an easy, super flavorful Ground Beef and Broccoli stir fry that promises to be a hit at any dinner table. This dish combines tender ground beef with crisp broccoli, all enveloped in the best homemade sweet and savory sauce. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion when you want to impress without too much fuss. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a deliciously rich taste that everyone will love.
- Healthy ingredients: Packed with lean protein and vegetables, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out the vegetables or add more spices to make it your own!
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this classic Asian-inspired dish served over rice.
Tools and Preparation
To ensure a smooth cooking experience, gather your essential tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: This helps cook the ground beef evenly and provides enough space for mixing in the sauce.
- Mixing bowl: Use this to whisk together the sauce ingredients so they blend well before adding them to the meat.
- Knife: A sharp knife is essential for chopping onions and broccoli efficiently.
- Cutting board: Protects your countertop while allowing you to prep ingredients safely.
Ingredients
Whip up an easy, super flavorful beef and broccoli stir fry with the best homemade sweet and savory sauce. Serve it over rice for an unforgettable, Asian-inspired meal!
For the Beef
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger (or 1/4 teaspoon ground)
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2-3 Tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
- 1 Tablespoon corn starch
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Seasoning
- Sea salt (to taste)
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
For the Vegetables
- 1 head of broccoli (chopped and steamed)
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Step 1: Brown Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 cup of chopped onion. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally. Break up any large pieces as you cook. Add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of minced ginger during the last minute of cooking.
Step 2: Combine Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce, 1/4 cup water, 2-3 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon corn starch, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust spice levels according to your preference.
Step 3: Simmer
Once the meat is browned, drain off any excess grease from the skillet. Stir in the prepared sauce mixture and bring it to a light simmer for about 1 to 2 minutes. If needed, add an additional tablespoon or two of water for desired consistency. Season with sea salt and ground black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Serve
Remove from heat. Serve your delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli over rice with steamed broccoli on the side. You can top it off with green onions, sesame seeds, or even drizzle some sriracha sauce if you like it spicy!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ground Beef and Broccoli is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Over Steamed Rice
- Steamed white or brown rice is the classic base for this dish. The fluffy texture soaks up the savory sauce beautifully.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Use crisp lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps. This adds a crunchy texture and makes for a fun, low-carb option.
With Noodles
- Serve over cooked noodles like lo mein or rice noodles for a hearty twist. The noodles will absorb the delicious sauce, making each bite flavorful.
Topped with Green Onions
- Garnish your dish with sliced green onions for added freshness and a bit of crunch. It enhances both flavor and presentation.
Paired with Sesame Seeds
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving for an extra layer of nuttiness and visual appeal.
With Sriracha Drizzle
- For those who love spice, drizzle sriracha over the top just before serving. It adds heat and an attractive finish.
How to Perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli
To ensure your Ground Beef and Broccoli turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Choose lean ground beef: Using lean ground beef reduces excess grease, making your dish healthier and more enjoyable.
Don’t overcook the broccoli: Steam broccoli until it’s bright green but still crunchy. This retains nutrients and enhances texture.
Adjust sauce thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch mixed with water before simmering. This will give your dish a richer consistency.
Taste as you go: Always taste the sauce before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or sweetener as needed for your desired flavor profile.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger provide vibrant flavors that dried versions cannot match. Always opt for fresh when possible.
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Complementing your Ground Beef and Broccoli with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of rice, vegetables, and eggs that pairs well with beef.
- Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat add a delightful crunch to your meal.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots tossed in soy sauce brings color and nutrition.
- Miso Soup: A light miso soup can serve as a warm starter that complements the main dish well.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers dressed in rice vinegar balances the richness of the beef.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots provides texture contrast while being light on calories.
- Pickled Radishes: These tangy bites serve as an excellent palate cleanser between rich bites of beef.
- Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with meat or vegetables add heartiness to your plate.
These side dishes not only enhance the meal but also introduce new flavors that harmonize beautifully with Ground Beef and Broccoli!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Ground Beef and Broccoli, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish significantly. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:
- Using too much fat: Excess grease can make the dish oily. Drain the fat after browning the beef to keep it healthy.
- Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always taste your dish as you cook and adjust with salt and pepper.
- Overcooking broccoli: Overcooked broccoli loses its vibrant color and crunch. Steam just until tender for the best texture.
- Skipping the sauce mixture: Forgetting to whisk the sauce properly can lead to clumps. Ensure everything is mixed well before adding it to the beef.
- Rushing the simmering process: Quick cooking may not allow flavors to meld. Simmer for at least 1-2 minutes for a more cohesive taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best used within 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ground Beef and Broccoli?
Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick stir-fry dish made with ground beef, steamed broccoli, and a sweet-savory sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I customize this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your flavor preferences.
How do I make Ground Beef and Broccoli gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce. This keeps your dish delicious while accommodating dietary restrictions.
How long does it take to prepare Ground Beef and Broccoli?
The total time for this recipe is around 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for quick meals.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef and Broccoli is a delightful blend of flavors that appeals to many tastes. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily by adding different vegetables or adjusting the sauce’s sweetness. Give this recipe a try for an easy, comforting meal that everyone will love!
Ground Beef and Broccoli
Whip up a delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli stir fry that will quickly become a family favorite! This quick and easy dish features tender ground beef paired with crisp broccoli, all coated in a homemade sweet and savory sauce. In just 15 minutes, you can enjoy this flavorful meal over rice or noodles, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, its customizable nature means you can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Get ready to impress with this comforting Asian-inspired dinner!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 head of broccoli (chopped and steamed)
- 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 2-3 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 Tablespoon corn starch
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion; cook until browned, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and ginger during the last minute.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, cornstarch, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Drain excess grease from the skillet. Pour in the sauce mixture and simmer for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
- Serve over rice with steamed broccoli on the side.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
