This Ground Beef and Broccoli dish is a tasty mix of juicy beef and crunchy broccoli cooked together in a savory sauce. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy nights!
I love how colorful it looks on my plate! Plus, it’s great served over rice or noodles, making it a filling and enjoyable meal for everyone. Who can say no to that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of the dish and adds a rich flavor. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer plant-based meals, crumbled tofu or tempeh works well too.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets give a nice crunch. If you don’t have fresh broccoli, frozen broccoli can work in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before use.
Soy Sauce: It adds a salty umami flavor. If you’re watching your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce is a great alternative. You can use tamari for a gluten-free option.
Oyster Sauce: Though it’s optional, it enhances the flavor. You can skip it altogether or replace it with hoisin sauce for some sweetness. For a vegan version, use a mushroom-based sauce.
Rice: While cooked white rice is common, brown rice or quinoa can be healthier options. Cauliflower rice is an excellent low-carb substitute if you are looking for something lighter.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Cooked Broccoli?
Cooking broccoli just right ensures it’s tender yet crunchy. Start by sautéing the broccoli in the same skillet as the beef for added flavor.
- After browning the beef, push it to the side of the skillet to make space for the broccoli.
- Sauté broccoli for 3-4 minutes. For a nice green color, avoid overcooking.
- If using frozen broccoli, add it directly to the skillet, but sauté a bit longer to ensure it heats through.
This technique keeps the broccoli vibrant while adding a great texture to your dish!
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
For The Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
Flavor Enhancers:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For Garnishing:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, for a total of around 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic and Ginger:
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until you can smell the wonderful aroma. Be careful not to burn them!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season it with a little salt and pepper. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Make sure it’s all crumbled nicely!
3. Add the Broccoli:
Once the beef is cooked, gently push it to one side of the skillet. On the other side, add the broccoli florets. Sauté the broccoli for about 3-4 minutes until it begins to turn tender—but not too soft!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), cornstarch, and beef broth or water. Give it a good stir so everything is combined well.
5. Combine Everything:
Now, pour the sauce mixture over the beef and broccoli. Stir everything together to make sure the beef and broccoli are coated in the yummy sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens nicely.
6. Finish with Sesame Oil:
Just before serving, drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry and give it a good stir. This will add a delightful flavor!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the ground beef and broccoli over bowls of cooked white rice. Top your dish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a tasty finish. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen broccoli before adding it to the skillet. You can do this by placing it in the fridge overnight or quickly microwaving it for a few minutes. Add it to the skillet for about 2 minutes instead of 3-4 to prevent overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Oyster Sauce?
If you prefer not to use oyster sauce, you can substitute it with an equal amount of hoisin sauce for a similar sweetness, or simply add an extra tablespoon of soy sauce for flavor without the oyster base.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe with Ground Turkey or Chicken?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just be mindful that the cooking time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on it and ensure it’s fully cooked through before adding the broccoli.
