Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli
Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli is the perfect solution when you want something quick, delicious, and satisfying. This dish combines tender ground beef and vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce that captures the essence of Asian flavors. The marriage of the beef’s richness and the slight bitterness of the broccoli creates a delightful balance, making each bite a pleasure. It’s easily customizable, which means you can tailor it to your tastes or those of your family.
Table of Contents
The first time I made this recipe, I was looking for a way to use the ground beef that had been sitting in my freezer. With just a few ingredients, I crafted a meal that not only excited my taste buds but also left everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds. It’s incredible how something so simple can pack such amazing flavor! Plus, it’s budget-friendly and comes together in about 35 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight. I can’t wait for you to try this delightful dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Whip up dinner in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and honey creates a mouthwatering, saucy masterpiece.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant green broccoli against the hearty beef looks great on any plate.
- Flexible Serving: Enjoy it over rice for a comforting meal or on its own for a lighter option.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adjustable for gluten-free diets by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 head or 2 crowns broccoli (about 1 pound): Fresh broccoli adds nutrition and a nice crunch. You can swap it out for snow peas or asparagus if desired.
- ½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce: Providing that savory umami flavor; opt for gluten-free tamari if needed.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: This adds a depth of flavor that enhances the entire dish; vegetarian oyster sauce can be used as an alternative.
- 1 tablespoon mirin rice wine: A sweet rice wine that balances the savory ingredients perfectly; you can substitute with a splash of white wine or apple juice.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the saltiness of the soy sauce; maple syrup works as a good substitute if you’re avoiding honey.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic: Fresh garlic gives the dish a fragrant kick; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste (or fresh minced ginger): For a warm, spicy note; fresh ginger is always the best option.
- 4 teaspoons cornstarch: This thickens the sauce effectively; you can swap it for arrowroot powder if preferred.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: For a nutty aroma and flavor; feel free to use olive oil if necessary.
- 1 pound 93% lean ground beef: A lean option ensures less grease and a healthier meal; ground turkey or chicken can be substituted.
- 1 cup coarsely chopped sweet yellow onion: Offering sweetness and texture, don’t skimp on this ingredient!
- Kosher salt, to taste: To enhance flavors; adjust according to your sodium preference.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a gentle spice; feel free to omit or reduce for a milder flavor.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: For a nutty crunch on top; can be skipped if you need to keep it simple.
- 2 green onions, sliced on the bias: Enhances freshness and color; shallots can be a nice alternative.
- Cooked white or brown rice (optional for serving): Pairs beautifully, serving as a base for the beef and broccoli.
How to Make Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli
Prepare the Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets in a 12-inch skillet and add enough water to come halfway up the sides. Bring to a boil over HIGH heat, then reduce to LOW, cover, and simmer for 2 minutes, just until barely fork-tender. Immediately drain the broccoli in a colander, rinsing it with cold water until cool to the touch. This process halts cooking, ensuring your broccoli stays vibrant. Drain well and set aside. Make sure to wipe the skillet dry for later use.
Mix the Sauce: In a measuring cup or small bowl, whisk together ½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon mirin rice wine, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1 teaspoon ginger paste, and 4 teaspoons cornstarch. This will create a thick sauce that clings beautifully to the meat and broccoli. Set aside, feeling excited about the flavors that are about to meld.
Cook the Beef and Onion: Heat 1 teaspoon sesame oil in the same 12-inch skillet over MEDIUM heat. Add the 1 pound of ground beef and 1 cup of coarsely chopped sweet yellow onion. Cook while breaking up the beef into chunky pieces. The beef doesn’t need to be finely ground; leaving some texture makes this dish heartier. Stir until fully cooked through and the onion becomes soft and translucent. Drain off any excess grease if necessary, then return the skillet to heat and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Add Broccoli and Sauce: Toss in the partially cooked broccoli along with the prepared stir-fry sauce. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and encompasses the beef and broccoli. This should take about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when everything is coated in that glossy, savory goodness.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and allow it to rest for several minutes before serving. Don’t forget to sprinkle 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds and the sliced green onions on top for that final touch! Serve it over rice if desired, and watch as it disappears from the table.
Storing & Reheating
To store any leftovers, let the beef and broccoli cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For long-term storage, you can freeze it for about 2-3 months. Just use a freezer-friendly container, and make sure not to fill it too tightly to allow expansion. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until heated through, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. Note that texture may change slightly when reheated, but a splash of water can help refresh the sauce.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcrowding the pan with ground beef to ensure even cooking; work in batches if necessary.
- For best flavor, allow the ground beef to sear a bit before stirring too much, developing a delicious crust.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dollop of chili paste into the sauce.
- Keep an eye on the broccoli; you want it tender but still vibrant. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy.
- This recipe is easy to double or halve depending on your needs, so don’t hesitate to adjust for larger gatherings or smaller meals.
Every time I make Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli, it brings a wave of nostalgia. It’s a recipe that I hope will bring comfort to your table as well. The rich and savory sauce pairs perfectly with rice, offering a delightful, fulfilling meal that’s low on effort. Don’t be afraid to get creative—substituting vegetables or adding a kick of spice can make this dish your own. Whether for a weekday family dinner or a quick meal prep option, this recipe is undeniably a keeper. Bon appétit!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is an excellent substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. You can also use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly.
What can I serve with Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli?
While it’s perfect over rice, you can pair it with quinoa, noodles, or even serve it with a side of steamed veggies. It also works great as a filling in wraps or lettuce cups for a fun twist.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli gluten-free, opt for tamari in place of the reduced sodium soy sauce, ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free, and check the other ingredients as necessary.
How can I add more veggies to this recipe?
Feel free to throw in extra vegetables during the cook time! Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots would be delightful additions that add color and nutrition. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure all veggies are tender yet crisp.
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📖 Recipe Card
Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli showcases a delightful combination of tender broccoli and savory beef. With its vibrant flavors and straightforward preparation, it’s the ideal choice for a quick healthy meal that joys the whole family. Serve it over rice for a satisfying dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 head or 2 crowns broccoli, about 1 pound, cut into small florets
- ½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin rice wine
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste, or fresh minced ginger
- 4 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 pound 93% lean ground beef
- 1 cup coarsely chopped sweet yellow onion, not diced
- kosher salt, to taste
- freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced on the bias
- cooked white or brown rice, optional for serving
Instructions
- In a 12-inch skillet, place the broccoli and add enough water to come halfway up the sides. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 2 minutes until barely fork tender. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- In a measuring cup, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, mirin, honey, garlic, ginger paste, and cornstarch until well combined. Set aside.
- Heat 1 teaspoon of sesame oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion starts to soften. Drain excess grease, season with salt and pepper, then stir in the partially cooked broccoli and sauce, cooking until thickened.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving with rice if desired.
Notes
For added texture, don’t over-sauté the ground beef; leave some chunks.
Feel free to customize vegetables based on your preference, such as bell peppers or snap peas.
This dish can be easily doubled for larger crowds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
