If you’re on the lookout for a quick and flavorful dinner that the entire family will appreciate, the Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is the perfect solution! This delightful dish combines juicy ground beef and crisp-tender broccoli, all enveloped in a savory garlic-ginger soy sauce that adds a delightful burst of flavor to each bite. Not only is this dish a breeze to prepare, but it also delivers robust taste without the need for a long cook time. Whether you’re busy with work or just looking for an effortless meal, this recipe is tailored for your busy lifestyle.
This health-conscious recipe caters to those wanting a healthier alternative to takeout food. You can whip it up in around 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or even meal prep for the week ahead. Serve this hearty dish over fluffy white rice or your favorite noodles for a well-rounded meal that satisfies cravings without piling on calories. It’s not just food; it’s home-cooked comfort that brings everyone together.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish takes just 25 minutes to prepare.
- Family-Friendly: The entire family will love the delicious flavors and satisfying ingredients.
- One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup as everything cooks in one skillet.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrient-rich broccoli and lean ground beef.
- Customizable: Easily tweak ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this exciting cooking adventure, prepping your kitchen and gathering your tools is essential for a seamless experience. Start by ensuring you have a large skillet at the ready and some measuring cups and spoons to get the proportions just right. A whisk comes in handy for blending the sauce ingredients smoothly, while a spatula will help you stir and break up the beef as it cooks.
Additionally, it’s important to wash and chop your broccoli into florets ahead of time to make the cooking process even faster. Consider investing in a steamer basket or a colander for blanching the broccoli—this guarantees even cooking and retains its vibrant color. With your workspace organized and tools gathered, you’ll be fully equipped to create this delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli dish without a hitch.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks, ensuring it achieves a nice, crumbly texture. If you find excess fat accumulating in the pan, don’t hesitate to drain it off for a leaner dish.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
While the beef is cooking, grab a small bowl and whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water or beef broth. Aim for a smooth and well-combined mixture. This sauce will be the key to infusing flavor throughout the dish, so take a moment to get it just right before moving on.
Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli
It’s time to focus on the broccoli! Steam or blanch it in boiling water for about 2 to 3 minutes until it turns bright green and is tender-crisp. Afterward, drain the broccoli and set it aside. This vibrant vegetable not only adds color to your plate but also a wealth of nutrients—making your meal both delicious and nutritious!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once the broccoli is ready, return it to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Pour in the sauce you prepared earlier, stirring gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated. Allow this mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken beautifully. This step is essential so that every bite is flavored to perfection.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
With everything combined, turn off the heat and stir in the freshly chopped green onions for a wonderful pop of flavor and color. Now, it’s time to serve your hot Ground Beef and Broccoli over a bed of fluffy cooked white rice. If desired, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for an extra touch of flavor and texture. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Variations
- Protein: Swap ground beef for minced chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for an extra crunch and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with crushed red pepper flakes for heat or add a dash of five-spice powder for a unique flavor twist.
Cooking Notes
- Be attentive to the cooking time of the broccoli; overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce and check that the broth you’re using is gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this dish over jasmine or basmati rice for added aroma.
- Pair with a side salad or steamed dumplings for a complete meal experience.
Tips
- Prepare the sauce ahead of time for an even quicker meal on busy nights.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat thoroughly before serving.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! The dish can be prepared a day in advance. Simply store the cooked ingredients in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for broccoli?
If you’re not a fan of broccoli, feel free to replace it with green beans, asparagus, or even spinach for a different spin.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, it’s important to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and verify all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just ensure they are placed in an airtight container and consumed within 2-3 months for the best quality.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is a delightful balance of taste, nutrition, and convenience, making it an instant favorite for families seeking quick weeknight meals. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough to cater to any dietary preferences and adapt to whatever fresh produce you have on hand. Encourage your loved ones to join in on the cooking process by allowing them to help chop or stir—creating lasting memories in the kitchen alongside delicious food. We’d love to hear your thoughts if you give this recipe a try! Share your experiences or any modifications you made in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful dinner that the entire family will appreciate!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions
- Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks, ensuring it achieves a nice, crumbly texture. If you find excess fat accumulating in the pan, don’t hesitate to drain it off for a leaner dish.
- While the beef is cooking, grab a small bowl and whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water or beef broth. Aim for a smooth and well-combined mixture. This sauce will be the key to infusing flavor throughout the dish, so take a moment to get it just right before moving on.
- It’s time to focus on the broccoli! Steam or blanch it in boiling water for about 2 to 3 minutes until it turns bright green and is tender-crisp. Afterward, drain the broccoli and set it aside.
- Once the broccoli is ready, return it to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Pour in the sauce you prepared earlier, stirring gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated. Allow this mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken beautifully.
- With everything combined, turn off the heat and stir in the freshly chopped green onions for a wonderful pop of flavor and color. Now, it’s time to serve your hot Ground Beef and Broccoli over a bed of fluffy cooked white rice. If desired, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for an extra touch of flavor and texture. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Notes
For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce and check that the broth you’re using is gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 28 g