Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Ground beef and broccoli is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. Served over rice, this dish is a satisfying, protein-packed meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.

What Is Ground Beef and Broccoli?

This dish is a simplified version of the classic beef and broccoli stir-fry, using ground beef instead of sliced steak. The rich umami sauce, made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness, coats the beef and broccoli perfectly. It’s an easy, budget-friendly meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavors at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable ingredients without compromising on taste.
• Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with protein and fiber for a balanced meal.
• Versatile – Easily customizable with different vegetables or protein options.
• Meal Prep Friendly – Stores well for leftovers and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Beef and Broccoli:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 3 cups (300g) broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• ¼ cup (60ml) soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Sauce Thickener:

• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

For Garnish:

• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

For Serving:

• 2 cups (400g) cooked rice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
• Drain any excess grease.

2. Add Seasonings and Sauce

• Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
• Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to develop the flavors.

3. Thicken the Sauce

• In a small bowl, mix the water and cornstarch until smooth.
• Pour the mixture into the skillet and stir well until the sauce thickens.

4. Cook the Broccoli

• Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
• If needed, add a splash of water to help steam the broccoli.

5. Serve and Garnish

• Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
• Serve hot over cooked rice.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy with jasmine or brown rice for a wholesome meal.
• Pair with a side of steamed dumplings or an Asian-inspired cucumber salad.
• Add a drizzle of sriracha for an extra spicy kick.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through.

Freezing Instructions

• Let the beef and broccoli cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option – Swap ground beef for crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat.
• Keto-Friendly – Serve over cauliflower rice and reduce the brown sugar.
• Extra Veggies – Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick – Increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of chili garlic sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Simply thaw it first or add it directly to the skillet and cook a little longer.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?
Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free alternatives.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep—just store and reheat as needed.

This ground beef and broccoli recipe is an easy, delicious, and budget-friendly meal that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Try it today and let me know how it turns out!

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