This Ground Beef and Broccoli dish is a quick and tasty meal that brings together juicy beef and bright green broccoli. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor!
Honestly, it’s like comfort food that doesn’t make you feel guilty. I love serving it over rice for a filling dinner—plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in those veggies! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use any ground beef, but lean varieties are best to avoid excess fat. For a healthier twist, try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is ideal for a crunchy texture. If you don’t have fresh, frozen broccoli works well too. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Rice: White rice is standard in this recipe, but brown rice or even quinoa can be good substitutes for added nutrients and a different flavor.
Sauces: Soy sauce adds saltiness, while oyster sauce provides umami. If dietary restrictions limit your soy intake, tamari or coconut aminos can be great alternatives!
Sesame Oil: This adds depth to the dish, but you can skip it if you’re allergic or substitute with another neutral oil.
How Can I Make Sure My Broccoli is Cooked Just Right?
Getting broccoli right can be tricky! You want it tender but still a bit crisp. Here’s how:
- Start with fresh, vibrant florets; they should be a bright green.
- When stir-frying, keep the heat high and cook for only 3-4 minutes. This keeps it crisp.
- You can add a splash of water during cooking and cover the skillet to steam for a minute; this helps soften without losing crunch.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked white rice
Flavorings and Sauces:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Garnishes:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight dinner and totally satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by warming a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, then toss in the ground beef. Season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking the beef apart as it cooks until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked. Once done, transfer the beef to a plate and set it aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
In the same skillet, add the leftover tablespoon of vegetable oil. When it’s hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté these for about 30 seconds, or until you can smell that yummy aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Add the Broccoli:
Now, it’s time to add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes until they turn a vibrant green and are slightly tender. You want them crisp and colorful!
4. Combine Beef and Broccoli:
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Give everything a good stir to combine the flavors evenly.
5. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), sesame oil, cornstarch, and water. This will be your sauce. Pour it over the beef and broccoli mixture, stirring to coat everything nicely.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Let the combined mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken up and cling to the beef and broccoli, making everything delicious!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, serve your tasty ground beef and broccoli over the cooked white rice. Don’t forget to sprinkle some sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Vegetables Instead of Broccoli?
Absolutely! You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary—cook them until they’re tender but still crisp to maintain some bite!
Is It Possible to Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can make it gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and ensure the oyster sauce you choose is gluten-free or omit it altogether!
What Are Some Good Leftover Storage Tips?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Replace Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Definitely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat work well as substitutes. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the protein you choose to ensure it’s cooked through.
