Ground Beef And Broccoli Recipe

Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner option that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is just what you need. Packed with flavor, protein, and veggies, it's a perfect meal for busy weeknights. This recipe is super versatile and can be easily customized with different seasonings or veggies to suit your taste. Read on to learn all the secrets to making a restaurant-quality stir-fry right at home!

What is Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry?

Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is a simple yet flavorful dish that typically features ground beef cooked with tender broccoli florets in a savory sauce. It’s an easy alternative to the more traditional beef and broccoli, which uses sliced beef. Using ground beef cuts down on prep time while still delivering all the delicious flavors of the classic Chinese-inspired dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a meal-prep favorite, this stir-fry is a great option.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef and Broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouth-watering dish:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or extra lean is preferred)
• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil like canola)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced (optional, for extra flavor)
• ¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium is a good option to control salt)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (for richness and umami)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
• ¼ cup water or beef broth (to thin out the sauce)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (adds sweetness to balance the savory flavors)
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced (optional, for added zing)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe lies in its versatility. You can tweak it based on what you have on hand or any dietary preferences you may have. Here are some ideas:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you’re trying to cut down on red meat, ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute. Just be sure to season it well as these proteins tend to be milder in flavor.
• Frozen Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is ideal, but if you have frozen broccoli on hand, go ahead and use it! Just thaw it first and be sure to drain any excess water before adding it to the stir-fry.
• Soy Sauce Alternatives: For a gluten-free option, you can use tamari instead of soy sauce. Coconut aminos also work for a soy-free, lower-sodium variation.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms to make this dish even more colorful and nutritious.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make the perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets, mince the garlic and ginger, and dice the onion if you’re using it. Have your sauces, cornstarch, and water measured and ready to go. This will ensure a smooth and quick cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, making sure to brown it evenly. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until fully browned. Once done, drain any excess grease from the pan and set the beef aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes. If using fresh broccoli, you can cover the skillet for a minute or two to help steam the broccoli and make it tender. You want the broccoli to be crisp-tender, not mushy.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Onion

Push the broccoli to the sides of the skillet and add the minced garlic and diced onion (if using) to the center. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

While the veggies cook, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, water or broth, brown sugar, and cornstarch in a small bowl. Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to avoid lumps in the sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the sauce over the beef and veggies, stirring well to combine. Let everything simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is well coated and the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a fresh pop of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Broccoli: The key to a good stir-fry is keeping the vegetables crisp-tender. Overcooking the broccoli will make it soggy and lose its vibrant color.
• Not Draining the Beef: Ground beef can release a lot of fat, especially if you're not using lean beef. Be sure to drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
• Using Too Much Sauce: While the sauce is delicious, too much of it can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recipe measurements for a perfectly balanced sauce-to-ingredient ratio.
• Not Dissolving Cornstarch Properly: Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved in the liquid before adding it to the pan. Otherwise, you could end up with clumps in your sauce.
• Overcrowding the Pan: If you're doubling the recipe or adding extra veggies, make sure to use a large enough pan. Overcrowding can cause the ingredients to steam instead of stir-frying.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters, especially when it comes to stir-fries. Here are a few ways to make your Ground Beef and Broccoli dish look as good as it tastes:

• Serve over Rice: This dish pairs perfectly with steamed white or brown rice. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice.
• Noodles: If you prefer noodles, try serving the stir-fry over egg noodles or rice noodles. The sauce will cling to the noodles, making every bite delicious.
• Garnish Generously: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for added color and flavor. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also brighten up the dish.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

The best way to serve Ground Beef and Broccoli is hot, straight out of the skillet. Here are some serving ideas:

• Family Style: Place the stir-fry in a large serving dish and let everyone help themselves. This is a great option for casual dinners or meal prep.
• Individual Bowls: For a more personal touch, portion the stir-fry into individual bowls, spooning the beef and broccoli over a bed of rice or noodles.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Broccoli

If you want to elevate the presentation of your Ground Beef and Broccoli, here are a few tips:

• Serve on a Platter: Arrange the stir-fry on a large platter with a sprinkling of sesame seeds and a few slices of fresh chili peppers for a pop of color.
• Use Stylish Bowls: Choose elegant bowls to serve the dish in, especially if you’re having guests over. A colorful bowl can really make the dish stand out.

Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe Tips

• Prep in Advance: You can chop the broccoli and mince the garlic and ginger ahead of time to make the cooking process even faster.
• Make It Saucy: If you like more sauce, double the sauce ingredients and serve the extra on the side for drizzling over rice or noodles.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! If you feel the sauce is too salty, you can add a splash of water. If it’s too bland, add a bit more soy sauce or oyster sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli before cooking so it doesn't release too much water into the stir-fry.

How Do I Make This Dish Low-Carb?

For a low-carb option, serve the Ground Beef and Broccoli over cauliflower rice or zoodles (zucchini noodles).

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that still tastes great in this recipe.

How Long Does Ground Beef and Broccoli Last in the Fridge?

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Can I Freeze Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Yes, you can freeze it! Let the stir-fry cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2-3 months.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is a fantastic option when you need a quick, tasty, and nutritious meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a flavorful stir-fry that rivals any takeout. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or feeding a hungry family, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of your home!

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