Ground Beef and Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines savory beef with crisp broccoli in a flavorful stir-fry. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when time is scarce but taste cannot be compromised. In just under 30 minutes, you can prepare a hearty meal that will satisfy your entire family. The combination of tender ground beef and vibrant green broccoli not only looks appealing but also packs a nutritious punch. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is as easy to make as it is enjoyable to eat. Whether you’re serving it over rice or enjoying it on its own, Ground Beef and Broccoli delivers a satisfying experience that everyone at the table will love.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the ground beef and vitamins from the broccoli, this dish offers a balanced meal
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option that still provides great flavor.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Look for bright green florets that are firm to the touch; they add crunch and nutrients.
- Garlic: Use fresh minced garlic for an aromatic base that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while adding depth of flavor.
- Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zesty kick; if unavailable, use ground ginger but reduce the amount.
For the Sauce:
- Brown Sugar: This balances the saltiness of soy sauce with its sweet flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
First, gather all your ingredients. Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized florets. Mince the garlic and ginger.
Step 2: Cook Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Once the beef is browned, add minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir frequently for about one minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Incorporate Broccoli
Add the prepared broccoli florets into the skillet. Pour in two tablespoons of water or broth to help steam the broccoli slightly. Cover for about three minutes.
Step 5: Make Sauce Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and brown sugar until well combined. Pour this mixture over the meat and broccoli.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Stir everything together in the skillet until well coated in sauce. Cook for an additional two minutes until heated through.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ground beef in soy sauce before cooking
How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli
This Ground Beef and Broccoli is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the ground beef in advance by cooking it with broccoli and the sauce. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even tastier when served later.
- Storing: Leftovers should be cooled completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for two to three minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated thoroughly. Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warm.
Suggestions for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Avoid Overcooking the Beef
One common mistake when preparing ground beef and broccoli is overcooking the beef. Ground beef can become tough and dry if cooked for too long. To ensure your beef remains juicy, cook it until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) but no longer than necessary. Use medium heat and avoid constant stirring, allowing the meat to brown slightly before breaking it apart. This enhances flavor while keeping the texture tender. Always remember that you can finish cooking in conjunction with other ingredients, such as broccoli, which also requires careful timing to retain its crunch.
Not Preparing Ingredients Ahead of Time
Another frequent error is not prepping all ingredients before cooking. Ground beef and broccoli come together quickly, so having everything ready makes a big difference. Chop your broccoli into bite-sized pieces, measure out your sauces, and have your spices at hand before starting. This preparation allows for smoother cooking and helps you maintain control over the timing of each component. When everything is organized ahead of time, you minimize the risk of burning or overcooking while ensuring that flavors meld beautifully.
Using Low-Quality Beef
Choosing low-quality ground beef can negatively affect the dish’s overall flavor and texture. Opt for lean ground beef that has a higher fat content for better moisture and richness in your dish. Grass-fed or organic options often provide more robust flavors compared to conventional choices. Additionally, quality meat cooks better and absorbs seasonings effectively, contributing to a more satisfying taste experience in your ground beef and broccoli recipe.
Skipping Marination
Marinating your ground beef might seem unnecessary, but skipping this step can lead to bland results. While you do not need to marinate for hours, even a quick marinade with soy sauce, garlic, or ginger can enhance flavor significantly. Allowing the meat to sit in these flavors for about 15-30 minutes will make it more delicious once cooked. This simple step elevates your dish by infusing depth into the beef, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
FAQs
How can I make my Ground Beef and Broccoli healthier?
To create a healthier version of ground beef and broccoli, consider using leaner cuts of meat or substituting with turkey or chicken mince. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding bell peppers or carrots alongside broccoli. Using low-sodium soy sauce reduces sodium levels in your dish without sacrificing flavor. Incorporating whole grains like brown rice instead of white rice boosts fiber content as well.
Can I use frozen broccoli in my Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe due to its convenience and longevity. However, be aware that frozen vegetables release water during cooking; you may need to adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid a soggy texture. To maintain crispness, add frozen broccoli towards the end of cooking just until heated through rather than letting it cook too long.
What should I serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli?
Ground beef and broccoli pair beautifully with various sides. Steamed rice—white or brown—is traditional but consider quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Additionally, serving it on top of noodles adds an Asian twist that many enjoy. For extra nutrition, accompany this meal with a fresh garden salad lightly dressed for added crunch.
Can I prepare Ground Beef and Broccoli in advance?
Absolutely! Preparing ground beef and broccoli ahead of time is convenient for meal prep enthusiasts. Cook the dish fully according to your recipe guidelines, then allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freezing it for longer storage. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy your flavorful meal again.
Conclusion for Ground Beef and Broccoli
In conclusion, mastering ground beef and broccoli involves avoiding common pitfalls such as overcooking the meat or neglecting ingredient prep work. By selecting high-quality beef and considering quick marination techniques, you elevate both flavor and texture significantly. Remember that using frozen vegetables is an acceptable alternative provided you manage cooking times properly; they save time while still delivering nutrition. Pairing this dish with healthy sides enhances its nutritional value while maintaining satisfaction at mealtime. With these tips in mind, you’ll create a deliciously balanced ground beef and broccoli dish every time!
Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick and delicious stir-fry that combines the savory richness of ground beef with the crisp freshness of broccoli. This satisfying dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering flavors, Ground Beef and Broccoli is sure to please the whole family. Serve it over steamed rice or enjoy it on its own for a nutritious meal that balances protein and vegetables. Customize it by adding your favorite spices or vegetables for an extra twist!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients: wash and cut broccoli into bite-sized pieces; mince garlic and ginger.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned (about 5-7 minutes), breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add garlic and ginger; stir frequently for about one minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate broccoli florets and add water to the skillet. Cover for about three minutes to steam.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and brown sugar; pour over beef and broccoli mixture.
- Stir to combine and cook for an additional two minutes until heated through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
