Ground Beef and Broccoli

This Ground Beef and Broccoli stir fry is a game changer for busy weeknights! Juicy, seasoned beef and vibrant, crisp-tender broccoli come together in a rich, umami packed sauce. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and ginger delivers bold flavors that rival your favorite takeout without the wait!

Best of all, it’s a one pan recipe that takes just 20 minutes to prepare. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil

• 3-4 cups broccoli florets

• 1 pound lean ground beef or ground sirloin

• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 8-10 cranks freshly-ground black pepper

• Sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes, tossing frequently, until vibrant green and tender-crisp. Remove from skillet and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, add ground beef and minced garlic. Cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking the beef into small crumbles, until fully browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. While beef is cooking, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, and black pepper in a small bowl.

4. Pour the sauce over the browned beef and stir well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Return the broccoli to the skillet, toss to coat, and serve immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 292 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry: A Quick, Flavorful, and Satisfying Meal

Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is a delicious, protein-packed dish that combines the rich, savory taste of seasoned beef with the freshness of crisp tender broccoli. It’s a quick and easy recipe that comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

This dish is inspired by classic Asian flavors, featuring a simple yet flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. The balance of umami, sweetness, and a hint of spice makes this recipe a standout, offering restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this is the perfect meal for nights when you’re short on time.

2. One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

3. Budget-Friendly: Ground beef is an affordable protein, and broccoli is a readily available vegetable.

4. Healthy and Nutritious: This meal is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a great choice for a balanced diet.

5. Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to fit your dietary preferences or use what you have on hand.

Origins and Inspiration Behind This Dish

Beef and broccoli is a well-loved dish that originated in Chinese American cuisine, typically made with tender slices of beef and a savory brown sauce. This ground beef version simplifies the cooking process by using minced beef instead of steak, making it even easier and quicker to prepare.

This recipe is perfect for home cooks who want to enjoy the bold flavors of a stir-fry without needing to marinate beef slices or use a wok. It’s a great way to bring Asian-inspired flavors into your kitchen with just a few simple ingredients.

The Key to Perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli

The success of this dish lies in a few key techniques:

• Browning the Beef Properly: Cooking the ground beef until it develops a nice sear enhances its flavor and texture.

• Using Fresh Garlic and Ginger: While ground ginger can work in a pinch, fresh garlic and ginger add an authentic depth of flavor.

• Balancing the Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil creates the perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors.

• Not Overcooking the Broccoli: To maintain its vibrant green color and a slight crunch, the broccoli should be cooked quickly over high heat.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some easy ways to modify it to fit different tastes and dietary needs:

• Swap the Protein: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles instead of beef.

• Make It Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha for a bit of heat.

• Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions.

• Go Low-Carb: Serve it on its own or over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.

• Use a Different Sauce Base: Instead of brown sugar, try honey or maple syrup for a different type of sweetness.

Best Ways to Serve This Dish

Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry pairs well with a variety of sides, depending on your preferences:

• Steamed White or Brown Rice: A classic choice that absorbs the delicious sauce beautifully.

• Noodles: Serve it over udon, ramen, rice noodles, or even spaghetti for a fun twist.

• Quinoa: A high-protein alternative that adds a nutty flavor.

• Lettuce Wraps: A fresh, crunchy way to enjoy this dish if you’re looking for a lighter meal.

For extra garnish, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top to enhance both the flavor and presentation.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This dish is excellent for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Warm in the microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring in between, or heat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

• Freezing: While you can freeze it, the texture of the broccoli may become softer upon reheating. If freezing, store the beef and sauce separately from the broccoli for the best results.

Health Benefits of This Meal

Ground Beef and Broccoli is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:

• Protein: Ground beef provides a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and overall health.

• Fiber and Vitamins: Broccoli is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which support the immune system and promote digestive health.

• Healthy Fats: Sesame oil adds heart-healthy unsaturated fats while enhancing the flavor.

• Low in Carbs: This dish can easily be adapted for a low-carb or keto diet by omitting the rice or noodles.

If you’re looking for a wholesome and balanced meal, this recipe is a fantastic option.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its rich, savory sauce and crisp, vibrant broccoli, it’s a meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your nutritional needs.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a homemade alternative to takeout, this dish delivers on all fronts. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and completely customizable, making it a go-to recipe for any home cook.