Ground Beef And Broccoli Recipe

If you're looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that combines delicious savory flavors with a healthy twist, this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is just what you need. With tender broccoli florets, juicy ground beef, and a savory sauce that ties it all together, it's a dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Plus, it's super versatile with easy substitutions and variations, making it adaptable to your tastes. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will become a family favorite.

this Recipe

What is Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a simple yet hearty dish that pairs ground beef with fresh, crunchy broccoli, all tossed in a rich, savory sauce made with soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and a touch of honey. It’s reminiscent of the flavors found in beef and broccoli stir-fry but uses ground beef for a quicker cook time and a more casual feel. It’s usually served over rice, but you can experiment with other grains or serve it as is for a low-carb option. The dish is not only delicious but also easy to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Broccoli

Main Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or you can substitute with vegetable or olive oil)
• 3 cups broccoli florets, washed and patted dry (ensure the florets are uniform in size for even cooking)
• 1 lb. ground beef (you can use lean or regular ground beef depending on your preference)
• 1 yellow onion, diced (adds a mild, sweet flavor to balance the beef)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced (for a bit of color and sweetness)
• Salt and white pepper, to taste (white pepper has a milder taste compared to black pepper, but feel free to substitute if needed)

Sauce Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water (to thicken the sauce)
• 1 cup beef broth (adds richness and depth to the sauce)
• ¼ cup soy sauce (use low-sodium if you prefer a less salty flavor)
• 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar (provides sweetness to balance the salty soy sauce)
• 1-2 tablespoons honey (for additional sweetness and a smooth, glossy texture)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (adds a punch of flavor to the sauce)
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger (for a warm, slightly spicy note)
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (adds a nutty, toasty flavor that complements the sauce beautifully)

For Serving:

• 3 cups cooked rice (white, jasmine, or brown rice are all great options)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is how easily you can tweak it to suit your dietary needs or preferences:

• Substitute ground beef: If you prefer a leaner meat, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian option, swap the meat with crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
• Use a different vegetable: While broccoli is the star of this dish, you can switch it up with other vegetables like snow peas, green beans, or zucchini for a variation in texture and flavor.
• Swap out the soy sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar and honey. For those who like a sweeter sauce, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of honey.
• Make it spicy: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients: Before you begin cooking, ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. Dice the onion, slice the red bell pepper, wash and dry the broccoli florets, and mince the garlic.
2. Cook the ground beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of peanut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula until it’s browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and white pepper. Once cooked, remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced red bell pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and the peppers are tender but still crisp. Next, add the broccoli florets and sauté for another 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and just tender.
4. Prepare the sauce: While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, and toasted sesame oil in a bowl. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry.
5. Combine everything: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the sauce mixture and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened and coated the beef and vegetables.
6. Adjust seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a splash more soy sauce depending on your taste preferences.
7. Serve over rice: Serve the ground beef and broccoli mixture over bowls of cooked rice for a complete meal.

How to Cook Ground Beef and Broccoli: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Ground Beef and Broccoli is as simple as sautéing your ingredients in stages and combining everything with a flavorful sauce. First, brown the beef to release its juices and flavors, then cook your vegetables to the perfect level of tenderness. The sauce, which includes a mix of soy, broth, garlic, and sweeteners, brings everything together. Using the cornstarch slurry ensures that the sauce is thick and clings to each bite of meat and broccoli. By following these steps, you'll create a dish that's full of texture and packed with flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the broccoli: One of the key components of this dish is the bright, crisp texture of the broccoli. Overcooking it can result in mushy, dull broccoli that detracts from the overall dish.
2. Using too much cornstarch: Adding too much cornstarch can result in a sauce that’s too thick and gloopy. Stick to the measurements in the recipe for the best texture.
3. Skipping the cornstarch slurry step: This step is crucial for thickening the sauce properly. Don’t skip it, or you’ll end up with a thin, watery sauce.
4. Not seasoning the beef properly: Ground beef needs a good amount of seasoning to shine, so make sure you season it with salt and pepper as it cooks.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve your Ground Beef and Broccoli over hot, fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. For added flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped green onions over the top. A drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce can also elevate the flavors for those who enjoy spice. This dish is great for meal prep too, as it reheats well, making it a fantastic option for weekday lunches.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli in individual bowls over a bed of rice for a classic presentation. Alternatively, you can serve it family-style on a large platter, letting everyone scoop out their portions as desired.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Broccoli

For a restaurant-quality presentation, consider the following ideas:

• Serve in wide, shallow bowls for a contemporary look.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Add a wedge of lime on the side for an unexpected citrus twist.

Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe Tips

• Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture. Frozen broccoli can work in a pinch but may release more water during cooking.
• Double the sauce if you like extra saucy dishes—just be sure to adjust the cornstarch accordingly.
• Make it ahead: Ground Beef and Broccoli reheats well, making it perfect for meal prepping or making ahead for busy weeknights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but it might not retain the same crispness as fresh. If you’re using frozen, add it directly to the pan without thawing to prevent it from becoming too soft.

Can I substitute ground chicken or turkey for beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to taste, as these meats can be less flavorful than beef.

How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its savory sauce, tender beef, and crisp broccoli, it's sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you stick to the original recipe or make a few variations to suit your taste, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite!

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