Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe

In the whirlwind of weeknight dinners, finding a meal that’s both quick and satisfying can feel like striking gold. For my family, this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe has become just that – a culinary treasure we turn to time and time again. It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and deliciousness, transforming humble ingredients into a flavorful and wholesome dish that even my pickiest eaters gobble up. Honestly, from prep to plate, we’re talking about a mere 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy evenings. The tender broccoli, savory ground beef, and that subtly sweet and savory sauce – it all comes together in perfect harmony. What I love most is how adaptable it is. Sometimes we serve it over fluffy white rice, other times quinoa for a healthier twist, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. No matter how we serve it, the plates are always clean, and the smiles are always big. If you’re searching for a reliable, easy, and crowd-pleasing dinner solution, look no further. This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero.

Ingredients: Your Simple Shopping List for Flavorful Success

The beauty of this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe lies in its short and straightforward ingredient list. You likely have many of these staples already in your pantry and refrigerator, making it an incredibly convenient meal to whip up at a moment’s notice. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

• 1 Tablespoon Peanut Oil (or Vegetable or Olive Oil): Oil is essential for sautéing the broccoli and browning the ground beef, providing a base for flavor development and preventing sticking. Peanut oil offers a subtle nutty flavor and a higher smoke point, making it great for stir-frying. However, vegetable oil is a readily available and neutral option, while olive oil adds a slightly fruity note and is a healthier choice, though it has a lower smoke point so be mindful of heat levels.
• 3 Cups Broccoli Florets (Washed and Patted Dry): Broccoli is the star vegetable of this dish, providing a vibrant green color, a satisfyingly crisp-tender texture, and a wealth of nutrients. Fresh broccoli florets are recommended for the best texture and flavor. Ensure they are thoroughly washed to remove any dirt or grit and patted dry to promote browning when sautéed, rather than steaming. You can also use frozen broccoli florets in a pinch; just ensure they are thawed and drained well to prevent excess moisture in your dish.
• 1 lb Ground Beef: Ground beef is the protein powerhouse of this recipe, offering a rich, savory flavor and satisfying heartiness. Using ground beef with a lower fat percentage (like 90% lean or higher) can help minimize grease and create a healthier dish. However, a little fat contributes to flavor, so a balance is key. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
• 1 Yellow Onion (Diced): Onion forms the aromatic base of this dish, adding depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness as it caramelizes while cooking with the beef. Yellow onions are a versatile choice, offering a balanced flavor that complements the other ingredients. Dicing the onion ensures it cooks evenly and blends seamlessly into the dish.
• 1 Red Bell Pepper (Sliced): Red bell pepper adds a pop of color, sweetness, and a slightly crisp texture to the dish. It also contributes valuable vitamins and antioxidants. Slicing the bell pepper allows it to cook quickly and evenly alongside the ground beef and onions, adding a pleasant textural contrast to the softer broccoli. You can also use other colors of bell peppers like orange or yellow for variety and flavor nuances.
• Salt and White Pepper (to Taste): Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients. Salt enhances the natural flavors, while white pepper adds a subtle warmth and peppery note without the black specks of black pepper. White pepper is often preferred in Asian-inspired dishes for its milder flavor and aesthetic appeal, but black pepper can be substituted if preferred. Seasoning to taste allows you to customize the flavor profile to your preferences.

For the Flavor-Packed Sauce:

• 2 Tablespoons Cornstarch + 2 Tablespoons Cold Water: This combination forms a cornstarch slurry, which is the key to thickening the sauce to a luscious, glossy consistency. Cornstarch is a powerful thickening agent, and mixing it with cold water before adding it to the hot sauce prevents clumping and ensures smooth incorporation.
• 1 Cup Beef Broth: Beef broth provides the liquid base for the sauce, adding depth of savory flavor that complements the ground beef. Using a good quality beef broth will significantly enhance the overall taste of the dish. You can also use low-sodium beef broth to control the salt content. Chicken broth can be used as a substitute if beef broth isn’t available, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
• 1/4 Cup Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is the cornerstone of the savory and umami flavors in the sauce. It adds saltiness, depth, and complexity. Use regular soy sauce for a classic flavor or low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the sodium content. Tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce, can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
• 3 Tablespoons Packed Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness and molasses-like depth to the sauce, balancing the saltiness of the soy sauce and creating a more complex flavor profile. Packed brown sugar ensures accurate measurement. You can adjust the amount to your sweetness preference.
• 1-2 Tablespoons Honey: Honey further enhances the sweetness and adds a floral note to the sauce. It also contributes to a glossy sheen. Starting with 1 tablespoon and adding more at the end allows you to customize the sweetness to your liking. Maple syrup can be used as a vegan alternative, though it will impart a slightly different flavor.
• 2 Cloves Garlic (Minced): Garlic is an essential aromatic ingredient, adding pungent and savory notes that elevate the sauce. Minced garlic releases its flavor effectively and integrates well into the sauce. Freshly minced garlic is preferred for the best flavor, but pre-minced garlic can be used for convenience.
• 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Ginger: Ground ginger adds a warm, slightly spicy, and aromatic dimension to the sauce, contributing to its Asian-inspired flavor profile. It complements the garlic and soy sauce beautifully. Freshly grated ginger can be used for a more intense flavor, but ground ginger is a convenient pantry staple.
• 1 Teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil is a finishing oil that adds a distinctive nutty aroma and flavor to the sauce. It’s potent, so a little goes a long way. Toasted sesame oil should be added at the end of cooking to preserve its delicate flavor, as heat can diminish its aroma.

For Serving:

• 3 Cups Cooked Rice (Any Kind): Rice is the classic and perfect accompaniment to Ground Beef and Broccoli, providing a fluffy and neutral base to soak up the flavorful sauce. White rice, brown rice, jasmine rice, basmati rice – any type of cooked rice will work well. Consider the nutritional profile and flavor preferences when choosing your rice. Quinoa or cauliflower rice are excellent alternatives for a healthier or low-carb option.

Instructions: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Dinner in 30 Minutes

This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is designed for speed and simplicity. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in just 30 minutes:

Prep Work: Setting the Stage for Flavor

1. Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small, covered container (like a jar or small Tupperware), combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Set this aside in a cool location. Preparing the slurry in advance ensures it’s ready to thicken the sauce smoothly without any lumps.
2. Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the remaining sauce ingredients: 1 cup beef broth, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon honey (start with this and add more later if desired), 2 cloves minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil. Stir well to ensure the brown sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the honey level to your preference at this stage. Setting the sauce aside allows the flavors to meld together while you prepare the beef and broccoli.

Cooking the Broccoli: Achieving Crisp-Tender Perfection

3. Heat the Oil: Place a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of peanut oil (or your chosen alternative) and let it heat up until it shimmers slightly. Hot oil is crucial for properly sautéing the broccoli and preventing it from steaming.
4. Sauté the Broccoli: Add the 3 cups of broccoli florets to the hot skillet. Toss them gently to coat them evenly with the oil. Spread the broccoli in a single layer as much as possible to promote even cooking. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli turns bright green and is slightly softened but still retains a bit of crispness. Avoid overcooking the broccoli at this stage, as it will cook further in the sauce later. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside.

Cooking the Beef: Building the Savory Foundation

5. Brown the Ground Beef: In the same skillet (no need to clean it), add the ground beef and diced yellow onion. Season the beef with salt and white pepper to taste, if desired. Break up the ground beef with a spoon or spatula and cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and cooked through, and the onions are softened and translucent. Cooking over medium-high heat encourages browning, which enhances the flavor of the beef.
6. Drain Excess Grease: If there is excess grease from the ground beef, carefully drain it off. This is especially important if you are using ground beef with a higher fat percentage. Draining the grease helps to keep the dish healthier and prevents the sauce from becoming greasy.
7. Add Bell Peppers: Add the sliced red bell pepper to the skillet with the cooked ground beef and onions. Cook for just 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the bell peppers are slightly softened but still crisp-tender. Cooking the bell peppers briefly preserves their vibrant color and texture.

Creating the Sauce and Bringing it All Together: The Grand Finale

8. Add the Sauce Mixture: Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet with the ground beef and vegetables. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a boil, stirring occasionally. Bringing the sauce to a boil activates the thickening properties of the cornstarch slurry and allows the flavors to meld together.
9. Simmer and Thicken: Once the sauce is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer (gentle bubbling). Let it simmer and reduce for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the sauce to slightly thicken and the flavors to concentrate.
10. Thicken with Cornstarch Slurry: Give the cornstarch slurry another shake to ensure it is well mixed. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce while stirring continuously. Stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. The cornstarch slurry will thicken the sauce almost immediately as it heats up. Continue to bubble gently for a minute or two to ensure the cornstarch is fully cooked and the sauce is smooth.
11. Add Broccoli Back and Heat Through: Reduce the heat to low. Add the sautéed broccoli back into the skillet with the thickened sauce. Stir gently to combine the broccoli with the sauce and ensure it is evenly coated. Heat through for 1-2 minutes, until the broccoli is heated through and warmed by the sauce. Avoid overcooking the broccoli at this stage, as it can become mushy.
12. Serve and Garnish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped green onions (optional) for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve immediately over hot cooked rice. Enjoy your delicious and easy Ground Beef and Broccoli!

Nutrition Facts: A Wholesome and Balanced Meal

This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits, making it a smart choice for a balanced meal. Here’s a general overview of the nutrition information per serving (estimated and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes):

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving (Estimated): Approximately 450-550 calories per serving. This is an estimate and can vary depending on the fat content of the ground beef, the amount of oil used, and the serving size of rice. Using leaner ground beef, less oil, and brown rice can reduce the calorie count.

Key Nutritional Highlights (per serving, approximate):

• Protein: A good source of protein, primarily from the ground beef. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and promoting satiety.
• Carbohydrates: Provides carbohydrates, mainly from the rice and brown sugar in the sauce. Choosing brown rice over white rice increases the fiber content and provides more sustained energy.
• Fat: Contains fat, primarily from the ground beef and cooking oil. Using leaner ground beef and healthy oils like olive oil can help control the fat content.
• Fiber: Broccoli and brown rice are good sources of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health, blood sugar control, and promoting fullness.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as folate and potassium. Bell peppers contribute vitamin C and vitamin A. Ground beef provides iron and B vitamins.

Important Note: These are estimated nutritional values. For precise nutritional information, it’s recommended to use a nutrition calculator app or website, inputting the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Serving sizes can also significantly impact the calorie and nutrient content.

Preparation Time: Quick and Convenient for Busy Lives

One of the biggest advantages of this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is its incredibly short preparation time, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • This includes washing and chopping the broccoli, dicing the onion, slicing the bell pepper, mincing the garlic, preparing the cornstarch slurry, and whisking together the sauce ingredients. Efficient knife skills can further reduce prep time.
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • This encompasses sautéing the broccoli, browning the ground beef and onions, cooking the bell peppers, simmering the sauce, thickening the sauce, and heating the broccoli through.
• Total Time: 30 minutes
  • From start to finish, you can have a delicious and satisfying Ground Beef and Broccoli meal on the table in just half an hour.

This quick cooking time makes it a perfect weeknight dinner solution, allowing you to enjoy a homemade, wholesome meal even when you are short on time.

How to Serve: Versatile Options for Every Preference

Ground Beef and Broccoli is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Classic Rice Bowl:
  • White Rice: The most traditional and popular choice. Fluffy white rice provides a neutral base that perfectly soaks up the flavorful sauce.
  • Brown Rice: A healthier alternative with a nutty flavor and chewier texture. Brown rice offers more fiber and nutrients than white rice.
  • Jasmine Rice: Fragrant and slightly sticky, jasmine rice adds a subtle floral aroma to the dish.
  • Basmati Rice: Long-grain and aromatic, basmati rice is light and fluffy, providing a delicate flavor that complements the dish.
  • Quinoa: A protein-rich and gluten-free option. Quinoa has a slightly nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture, offering a nutritious alternative to rice.
  • Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb and keto-friendly option. Cauliflower rice provides a light and slightly cruciferous flavor, offering a vegetable-based alternative to grain-based rice.
• Noodle Bowls (Less Traditional, but Delicious):
  • Lo Mein Noodles: Stir-fried egg noodles that are often served with Chinese dishes.
  • Udon Noodles: Thick and chewy wheat noodles that are popular in Japanese cuisine.
  • Rice Noodles: Gluten-free noodles made from rice flour, offering a lighter option.
• Lettuce Wraps (Low-Carb Option):
  • Serve the Ground Beef and Broccoli mixture in crisp lettuce cups (like butter lettuce or romaine lettuce) for a refreshing and low-carb meal.
• Garnish Ideas to Elevate Your Serving:
  • Green Onions (Scallions): Chopped green onions add a fresh, mild oniony flavor and a pop of color.
  • Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty flavor and a pleasant crunch.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat, sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
  • Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous flavor.
  • Sriracha or Chili Garlic Sauce: For those who like extra spice, serve with sriracha or chili garlic sauce on the side.

Additional Tips for Ground Beef and Broccoli Perfection

To ensure your Ground Beef and Broccoli turns out absolutely delicious every time, here are five helpful tips:

1. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: The key to perfect broccoli in this dish is to cook it until it’s crisp-tender – bright green and slightly softened but still with a bit of bite. Overcooked broccoli will become mushy and lose its vibrant color and appealing texture. Sautéing it briefly before adding it to the sauce helps maintain its texture.
2. Adjust Sweetness to Your Taste: The recipe calls for brown sugar and honey, but sweetness preferences vary. Start with the recommended amounts and taste the sauce before thickening. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more honey or brown sugar, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired sweetness level. Conversely, if you prefer it less sweet, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar and honey.
3. Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish to customize it to your liking and use up what you have on hand. Some excellent additions include:
   • Carrots: Sliced or diced carrots add sweetness and color.
   • Snap Peas or Snow Peas: Provide a crisp-tender texture and sweetness.
   • Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add an earthy and umami flavor.
   • Water Chestnuts: Sliced water chestnuts offer a unique crunch.
   • Baby Corn: Adds sweetness and a slightly chewy texture.
   • Zucchini or Yellow Squash: Diced zucchini or yellow squash adds a mild flavor and soft texture.
4. Make it Spicy (If You Dare): If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can easily add spice to this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe. Consider these options:
   • Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a mild to moderate heat.
   • Sriracha or Chili Garlic Sauce: Stir in a teaspoon or two of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the sauce for a more pronounced heat and flavor.
   • Fresh Chili Peppers: Add thinly sliced fresh chili peppers (like Thai bird chilies or jalapeños) while sautéing the onions and beef for a more intense heat.
5. Prep Ahead for Even Faster Weeknights: To make this dish even quicker on busy weeknights, you can prep some components in advance:
   • Chop Vegetables: Chop the broccoli, onion, and bell pepper ahead of time and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a day.
   • Mix the Sauce: Prepare the sauce mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
   • Cook Rice in Advance: Cook rice ahead of time and reheat it when you are ready to serve the Ground Beef and Broccoli.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered About Ground Beef and Broccoli

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

A: Yes, you can absolutely use frozen broccoli florets. However, it’s important to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before sautéing. Frozen broccoli tends to be more watery than fresh broccoli, so patting it dry after thawing will help it brown better and prevent the dish from becoming too watery. You may also need to reduce the sautéing time slightly as frozen broccoli is often pre-cooked to some extent.

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

A: Yes, with a few substitutions, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian or vegan. To make it vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative (like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger), or use firm tofu or tempeh, cubed and browned. To make it vegan, ensure your plant-based meat alternative is vegan-friendly, and substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Also, double-check that your beef broth is vegetable broth.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables besides broccoli and bell peppers?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is very adaptable to different vegetables. Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as carrots, snap peas, mushrooms, water chestnuts, baby corn, zucchini, or yellow squash. Consider the cooking time of different vegetables and add them accordingly. Harder vegetables like carrots should be added earlier, while softer vegetables like zucchini can be added later.

Q4: How long does Ground Beef and Broccoli last in the refrigerator?

A: Properly stored Ground Beef and Broccoli will last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container once it has cooled completely. For best quality, consume it within this timeframe.

Q5: Can I make this recipe spicier?

A: Yes, you can easily adjust the spice level to your preference. You can add red pepper flakes, sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or fresh chili peppers to increase the heat. Start with a small amount and taste, adding more until you reach your desired level of spiciness. Remember that spices can intensify as the dish sits, so it’s always better to start with less and add more if needed.

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