Name: Ground Beef and Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 3 cups broccoli florets; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/2 cup water or beef broth; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional); 2 cups cooked white rice

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Introduction to Ground Beef and Broccoli

The perfect mom-on-the-go-slash-home-cook meal shortcut for feeding my little family. This all comes together to make a busy week night feel like an indulgence of five star dining. Sweet seasoned ground beef and tender broccoli florets in an outrageous sticky sauce that has MILLION S of flavors! When you need dinner pretty dang quickly that also tastes better than pretty good… this is the recipe for you. Plus it’s healtlhy and now Gluten free people can rejoice over it too- which is always a great opportunity to have a hearty flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Broccoli

Life changer for any busy person trying to juggle everything at once, like me. Quick to prepare from the start to the finish, taking only 25 minutes. Very flavorful so even the pickiest of eaters will like it. This is comfort food-it’s supposed to be simple! A whole meal that’s made multi-tasking easy and tastes hearty but with minimal effort – ‘one skillet meal perfect for family time.

Ingredients in Ground Beef and Broccoli

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step in creating a delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli. Let’s break down what you’ll need:

Ground beef: The star of this dish, it provides protein and rich flavor. For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey.
Broccoli florets: These vibrant green gems add crunch and nutrients. Fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch!
Soy sauce: This classic ingredient adds a savory depth. Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier choice.
Brown sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the savory soy sauce. You can substitute with honey or coconut sugar if desired.
Garlic: Nothing beats the aroma of fresh garlic! Minced garlic amplifies flavor, and garlic powder can be used if you’re short on time.
Fresh ginger: It brings warmth and a bit of spice. Ground ginger can be a handy alternative in a hurry.
Sesame oil: This oil adds an earthy richness. If you’re out, a neutral oil like canola can be substituted, but it won’t have that nutty edge.
Cornstarch: A thickening agent that helps the sauce cling to the beef and broccoli. You can swap it with arrowroot powder if preferred.
Water or beef broth: Broth enhances flavor, but water does the job too, keeping it simple.
Green onions: Fresh and zesty, they add a splash of color. Feel free to leave them out if they’re not your thing.
Sesame seeds: Optional for garnishing, they provide crunch and elegance.
Cooked white rice: To serve this scrumptious dish over, providing a fluffy base that’s perfect for soaking up the sauce!

All the precise measurements for these ingredients are available at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print and keep handy. Happy cooking!

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into creating this satisfying dish. Each step is simple, ensuring you get a beautiful plate of Ground Beef and Broccoli in no time. Ready? Let’s go!

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. You want it to brown nicely, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain the excess fat to keep things light. This step creates a savory foundation for your meal, setting the tone for all the flavors to come!

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the beef is browning, grab a small bowl. In it, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water (or broth) until smooth. This thick sauce is the secret to tying all the flavors together. Set the mixture aside while you steam the broccoli.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

In another pot, bring some water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and let them steam for about 2-3 minutes. You want them bright green and tender-crisp, not mushy. Then, drain them and set aside. Steaming helps retain the vibrant color and nutrients of the broccoli, making your dish as healthy as it is tasty!

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Once the beef is browned and the broccoli is ready, return the broccoli to the skillet with the beef. Pour the delicious sauce you prepared earlier over the mixture. Stir everything together so it’s evenly coated. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. This is when your kitchen will fill with that mouthwatering aroma, making it hard to wait!

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

When the sauce has thickened to perfection, turn off the heat and stir in the chopped green onions. This adds a lovely crunch and freshness to your dish. Serve hot over fluffy cooked white rice and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like. The rice serves as the perfect canvas for all the amazing flavors of your Ground Beef and Broccoli masterpiece!

Tips for Success

Keep an eye on the ground beef as it cooks; browning for too long can dry it out.
Always taste the sauce before adding it to the pan; tweak to your liking with more sugar or soy sauce.
If using frozen broccoli, thaw and pat dry to avoid excess water in the dish.
Consider preparing the sauce ahead of time to save precious minutes during busy nights.

Equipment Needed

Large skillet: A non-stick or cast iron skillet works wonders.
Small bowl: For mixing the sauce; a whisk or fork will do.
Pot: To steam broccoli; a microwave-safe bowl can suffice.
Spatula: Essential for browning the beef and mixing ingredients.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for textured vegetable protein or plant-based ground meat to enjoy a meatless version without sacrificing flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for a delightful heat that’ll tantalize your taste buds.
Colorful Veggies: Amp up the nutrition by adding a mix of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra crunch and nutrients.
Low-Carb Version: Serve the dish over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of white rice for a lighter option that’s still satisfying.
Asian Twist: Incorporate Asian-style mushrooms like shiitake or oyster mushrooms to elevate the dish with an umami-packed flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Ground Beef and Broccoli with a side of steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a hearty complement.
Consider a crisp side salad with sesame dressing for a refreshing balance.
Serve with chilled green tea or a light lemonade for a delightful drink combo.
Garnish with additional green onions and sesame seeds for an inviting presentation!

FAQs about Ground Beef and Broccoli

Can I use a different protein instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian alternative. This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is flexible and works beautifully with various proteins!

Is this dish spicy?

No, this dish isn’t inherently spicy. However, you can easily adjust the heat level by adding red pepper flakes or sriracha. A little goes a long way in giving your Ground Beef and Broccoli that spicy kick!

Can I meal prep this recipe for the week?

Definitely! You can make a big batch of Ground Beef and Broccoli and store it in the fridge for up to three days. It reheats beautifully, making it a perfect option for busy weekdays.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs excellently with steamed rice, but you can also serve it over noodles or even a bed of lettuce for a lighter, low-carb option. Those fluffy grains soak up all the delicious sauce!

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just make sure to cool the dish completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to three months. Perfect for those “I don’t feel like cooking” days!

Final Thoughts

Put all this together, and you have more than a meal. You have an assembly on the family table that warms the heart-loved ones’s and draws a time of celebration out to dinnertime. I really like how fast it comes together so I can spend time with the people I love instead of staying stuck in the kitchen. Whether you’re an old hand or a rank beginner, this dish has what it takes to take a rough evening and turn it into something special. Good cooking! may your kitchen be filled with love!