Ground beef and broccoli is a simple yet delicious dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. This meal is quick to make, packed with flavor, and can be served over rice or quinoa for a complete dinner. If you’re looking for a meal that combines protein and veggies easily, this recipe is a great choice. You might also want to check out easy beef and broccoli for more inspiration!
why make this recipe
There are many reasons to love ground beef and broccoli. First, it’s an easy recipe that can be made in under 30 minutes. The ingredients are usually found in your kitchen, making it budget-friendly. Additionally, the flavor combinations of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger blend perfectly with the beef and broccoli, offering a tasty experience. If you enjoy recipes with ground beef, consider trying ground beef and cabbage for another quick option.
how to make Ground Beef And Broccoli
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
- Cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)
Directions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary. After that, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
Next, stir in the broccoli florets, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), brown sugar, and beef broth. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it in. Let everything simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened. Finally, stir in the sesame oil and grated ginger (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, adding more soy sauce or sugar if needed.
Serve the ground beef and broccoli over cooked rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Enjoy!
how to serve Ground Beef And Broccoli
Ground beef and broccoli is versatile and can be served in many ways. You can place it over a bed of rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. It also works well in a wrap or as a filling for tacos. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad to add even more nutrients to your meal.
how to store Ground Beef And Broccoli
To store any leftovers, place the ground beef and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. Freezing is also an option; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
tips to make Ground Beef And Broccoli
For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and ginger if you can. Feel free to adjust the soy sauce and brown sugar based on your taste preferences. You can also add more vegetables, like bell peppers or carrots, for added color and nutrition. If you want to try a different twist, check out the recipe for garlic beef and broccoli noodles!
variation
You can easily customize this dish by using different types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian option, consider using tempeh or a plant-based meat substitute. Experimenting with different sauces or spices can also change the flavor profile to suit your taste.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure it’s thawed before adding it to the pan.
- How can I make this dish gluten-free?
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- What can I serve with ground beef and broccoli?
- This dish pairs nicely with rice, quinoa, or even noodles for a more filling meal.
Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
- Cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Stir in the broccoli florets, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), brown sugar, and beef broth. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it in.
- Let everything simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in the sesame oil and grated ginger (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve the ground beef and broccoli over cooked rice or quinoa.
