Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick and tasty dish that combines savory ground beef with fresh broccoli. It’s a colorful plate that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
This meal is so easy to whip up! I love how you get a great balance of protein and veggies in one pan. Plus, it’s a hit at dinner time—you’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, providing flavor and texture. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken instead. Veggie lovers can go for lentils or mushrooms to give a similar texture.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are great, but frozen broccoli works too when you’re short on time. You can also swap it out for other greens like bok choy or snap peas for a twist!
Soy Sauce: This adds a salty umami flavor. For a lower sodium option, look for low-sodium soy sauce. If you’re avoiding soy, coconut aminos are a nice alternative.
Oyster Sauce: While optional, it adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t have it, hoisin sauce can work in a pinch, or simply add a bit more soy sauce.
Vegetable Oil: Use vegetable oil for frying, but if you prefer something healthier, opt for olive oil or avocado oil instead.
How Do I Get the Broccoli Just Right?
The key to perfect broccoli is cooking it without losing its crunch. In this recipe, you only cook it for a few minutes, so it stays bright and vibrant. Here’s how to do it:
- After browning the beef, toss in the broccoli at medium-high heat.
- Stir and let it cook for just 2-3 minutes. You want tender but not mushy.
- If you want to speed things up, a splash of water can create steam, helping it cook faster while keeping that crunch.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or jasmine)
Sauces and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the beef and broccoli, and then just a bit more time ensuring everything is fully cooked and well-seasoned. It’s a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them for about 30 seconds, or until you can smell their lovely aroma.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is well-browned and fully cooked. If there’s excess grease in the pan, it’s a good idea to drain it out.
3. Add Broccoli:
Now it’s time to add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir them in and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and turn bright green. They should still have a bit of crunch!
4. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), cornstarch, and beef broth (or water). Mix them together until everything is smooth and well blended.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and broccoli in the skillet. Toss everything together so that the beef and broccoli are well-coated with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and stick to the ingredients.
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. Now, serve the beef and broccoli mixture over freshly cooked rice. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that extra touch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef! Just be aware that it may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on it and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You might also want to add a little more seasoning since these alternatives can be milder in flavor.
What Can I Use Instead of Oyster Sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute it with hoisin sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a bit of sugar. For a vegetarian option, try mushroom sauce, which has a similar umami flavor!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave it or warm it up in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for a more colorful and nutritious dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly so everything is tender and cooked through.
