Ground beef and broccoli is a delightful dish that combines the hearty flavor of beef with the nutritious crunch of broccoli. This easy recipe stands out for its convenience, making it perfect for busy weekdays or a relaxed weekend meal. With a few simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can create a flavorful dish that impresses everyone at the table.
Why We Love This Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli
This easy ground beef and broccoli dish brings together flavors and textures that many find irresistible. The ground beef provides a savory and rich base, while the broccoli adds a fresh, vibrant crunch. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly practical. It comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a go-to option when you need something quick yet satisfying. The combination of protein and vegetables ensures you’re serving a balanced meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. Plus, it’s versatile enough to modify based on your preferences, whether you want it spicier or more on the savory side. It’s a beloved choice for families because it satisfies both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients for Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving (optional)
Directions
- Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Cook it until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet, if necessary.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet with the beef, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth or water, mixing well to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of water to create a slurry.
- Pour the cornstarch slurry into the skillet. Stir to combine, and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the mixture over cooked rice or noodles, if desired. Enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli
When serving easy ground beef and broccoli, presentation can enhance the dining experience. Start by placing a generous scoop of your base, whether that’s steaming rice, fluffy noodles, or even a bed of fresh greens. Top this base with the ground beef and broccoli mixture, allowing the sauce from the dish to cascade over the sides. For a splash of color and nutritional boost, consider garnishing with sliced green onions or sesame seeds. Adding a drizzle of sesame oil can introduce a nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it with some pickled vegetables on the side to add a tangy contrast to the savory flavors. This dish pairs nicely with a light salad or steamed dumplings, creating a complete and satisfying meal.
Expert Tips for Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli
To elevate your easy ground beef and broccoli, consider these expert tips. First, choose the right cut of beef—ground chuck will yield a richer flavor while remaining tender, but you can use lean ground beef if you prefer less fat. It’s also helpful to prep your ingredients in advance; having everything chopped and ready makes cooking swift and enjoyable. For added depth, incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas, which not only boost the nutritional value but also add different textures. If you enjoy heat, a dash of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce in the sauce can give your dish a spicy kick. Lastly, don’t shy away from adjusting the seasoning—tasting as you go lets you find the perfect balance of flavors for your palate.
How to Store Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli
Storing easy ground beef and broccoli is straightforward. Allow any leftovers to cool down to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. You can keep the dish in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. If you wish to keep it longer, freezing is a viable option. Divide the dish into smaller portions to help with thawing. Be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or heat directly from frozen in a skillet, stirring until hot.
Variations of Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli
This easy ground beef and broccoli recipe offers plenty of room for creativity. For a twist, you can add different vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or snow peas to brighten the dish and enhance its nutrition. For a fusion experience, try adding flavors from other cuisines; cooking the beef with a bit of curry powder can introduce an unexpected but delightful flavor profile. For those who prefer additional crunch, tossing in sliced water chestnuts can add a wonderful texture. If you want to make the dish a bit tangier, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar. You can also adjust the protein; swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken provides a lighter option. Lastly, if you’re a fan of different grains, serve this dish over quinoa or barley instead of traditional rice or noodles.
FAQ about Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli
What can I serve with easy ground beef and broccoli?
You can serve it with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
How can I make easy ground beef and broccoli spicier?
You can add chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce during cooking for extra heat.
Is there a vegetarian version of easy ground beef and broccoli?
Definitely! You can substitute ground beef with a plant-based protein, such as crumbled tofu or tempeh.
Can I use frozen broccoli for easy ground beef and broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just add it to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking until heated through.
Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari for flavor
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch for thickening
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- to taste salt and pepper
- optional cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary.
Cooking
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth or water, mixing well to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of water to create a slurry.
- Pour the cornstarch slurry into the skillet. Stir to combine, and let it simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but bright green.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve the mixture over cooked rice or noodles, and enjoy!
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!