Ground Beef and Broccoli

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a delightful dish that brings together the savory taste of ground beef and the freshness of broccoli in a quick 30-minute meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers on flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s versatile enough to serve for family dinners, meal prep, or even casual gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Broccoli

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a fantastic choice for several reasons:

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with different vegetables or proteins based on your preference.
• Balanced Meal: Offers a delicious combination of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates when served over rice.
• Flavorful Sauce: The rich stir-fry sauce enhances the dish’s overall taste, making every bite satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Small container (for cornstarch mixture)
• Mixing bowls
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Essential for even cooking and allowing space for stir-frying ingredients effectively.
• Mixing bowls: Helpful for preparing sauces and combining ingredients without mess.
• Spoon or spatula: Necessary for stirring and ensuring everything cooks evenly.

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry

• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable/olive oil)
• 3 cups broccoli florets, washed and patted dry
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• Salt and white pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

For Serving

• 3 cups cooked rice (any kind)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small container, combine the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Shake or stir well and set aside. In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon honey (adjust later if needed), garlic, ground ginger, and sesame oil. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the broccoli and toss to coat. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Season the ground beef with salt and white pepper if desired. In the same skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the beef along with the diced onions until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease if needed. Add in the sliced bell peppers and cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with beef and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Shake up the cornstarch mixture again; then slowly stir it into the sauce. Allow it to bubble gently until it reaches your desired thickness.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Reduce heat to low; return the cooked broccoli back into the pan with other ingredients. Stir well to combine everything thoroughly. Serve hot over cooked rice. You can garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped peanuts as desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

Serving Ground Beef and Broccoli can be a delightful experience for the whole family. This dish not only stands on its own but also pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

Over Rice

• Serve over fluffy white rice for a classic combination. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite flavorful.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps. Fill them with ground beef and broccoli for a crunchy and low-carb option.

With Noodles

• Toss the beef and broccoli mixture with cooked noodles, such as lo mein or rice noodles, for a hearty meal.

As a Stir-Fry Bowl

• Add other vegetables like snap peas or bell peppers to create a vibrant stir-fry bowl. Top with sesame seeds for extra crunch.

With a Side Salad

• Pair your dish with a light salad, such as mixed greens or cucumber salad, to balance out the richness of the beef.

As Meal Prep

• Portion out servings into meal prep containers. This makes it easy to enjoy throughout the week while keeping flavors fresh.

How to Perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Ground Beef and Broccoli, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality ground beef elevate the dish’s taste significantly.
• Adjust Sauce Sweetness: Taste the sauce before adding all the honey; adjust sweetness according to your preference.
• Cook Broccoli Just Right: Avoid overcooking broccoli; it should be tender yet still crisp for optimal texture.
• Balance Flavors: Experiment with different ratios of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to find your ideal flavor profile.
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve this dish hot right after cooking; it tastes best fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Broccoli

Ground Beef and Broccoli pairs well with several side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant choice that soaks up sauce perfectly.
2. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread adds a crunchy contrast to the meal.
3. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini offers freshness against hearty beef.
4. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls provide an enjoyable crunch alongside this dish.
5. Fried Rice: Use leftover rice mixed with vegetables for an exciting twist.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can add brightness to your plate, balancing richness.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a nutty flavor that pairs well with beef dishes.
8. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can start off your meal on a comforting note.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Ground Beef and Broccoli can be simple, but there are common mistakes that might affect your dish. Here are some to keep in mind:

• Ignoring the Broccoli’s Texture: Overcooking broccoli can lead to a mushy texture. Cook it just until it’s slightly tender to maintain a nice crunch.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning the ground beef properly can result in bland flavors. Use salt and white pepper generously to enhance the taste.
• Forgetting to Thicken the Sauce: If you skip adding cornstarch, your sauce may be too watery. Always mix it well before pouring it into the skillet for a thicker consistency.
• Using Cold Rice: Serving your stir-fry over cold rice can be unappetizing. Make sure to heat your rice or cook it fresh for the best experience.
• Rushing the Cooking Process: Cooking on high heat throughout can burn ingredients. Adjust the heat as needed for even cooking, especially when adding sauces.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short increments, stirring in between until warmed thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different meats for Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can replace beef while keeping similar flavors and textures.

How do I make Ground Beef and Broccoli healthier?

Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and use leaner cuts of ground meat. Adding more vegetables boosts nutrition.

What can I serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli?

This dish pairs well with various sides like steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles.

How do I store leftover Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas are excellent additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Broccoli is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sauce’s sweetness. This dish offers a delicious balance of flavors that your family will enjoy time after time!