Have you ever had one of those evenings where you’re craving something hearty, healthy, and easy to make? Ground Beef and Broccoli is the perfect answer to those busy nights when you want a meal that’s satisfying and nutritious without requiring hours in the kitchen. Combining savory ground beef with crisp-tender broccoli in a flavorful sauce, this dish delivers on taste, texture, and simplicity.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to create this delicious meal at home!

Why You’ll Love Ground Beef and Broccoli

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Healthy and Hearty: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, it’s a meal you can feel good about.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even on its own for a low-carb option.
• Kid-Friendly: The flavorful sauce and tender beef make this a hit with even picky eaters.

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Broccoli

To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need:

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if beef is lean)
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients

1. Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
2. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, water, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Set the sauce aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil if needed.
2. Sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until they are crisp-tender.

4. Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the broccoli.
2. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir well to coat.
3. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.

5. Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top.
2. Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy on its own.

What Makes Ground Beef and Broccoli So Special?

1. Balanced Flavors

The savory soy sauce, aromatic garlic, and hint of sweetness create a flavor profile that’s both bold and comforting.

2. Nutritional Benefits

This dish combines lean protein from the ground beef with vitamins and minerals from broccoli, making it a wholesome meal.

3. Minimal Cleanup

With just one skillet and a small bowl for the sauce, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 Cup)
Calories	320
Protein	24g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fat	20g
Fiber	3g

Creative Variations to Try

• Spicy Beef and Broccoli: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for a kick of heat.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
• Vegetable Boost: Include carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for added color and texture.
• Teriyaki Style: Substitute the sauce with teriyaki glaze for a sweeter flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• With Rice: Pair with white, brown, or jasmine rice for a classic combination.
• Over Noodles: Serve with stir-fried noodles or lo mein for a heartier meal.
• On Its Own: Enjoy as a low-carb, high-protein option without any sides.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli

1. Choose Quality Ingredients

Opt for fresh broccoli and high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.

2. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli

Cook the broccoli until it’s just tender to preserve its crunch and bright green color.

3. Adjust the Sauce

Taste the sauce before adding it to the skillet and adjust the seasoning to suit your preference.

FAQs About Ground Beef and Broccoli

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Thaw and drain it first to avoid excess water in the skillet.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu.

4. What if I don’t have oyster sauce?

You can substitute oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or an extra tablespoon of soy sauce.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

6. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze the cooked beef and broccoli mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Why Ground Beef and Broccoli Will Be Your New Favorite Dinner

This dish has everything you need for a satisfying meal: bold flavors, nutritious ingredients, and quick preparation. It’s versatile enough to adapt to your preferences and easy enough to become a weeknight staple. Plus, the combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce is simply irresistible.

Conclusion: Ready to Try This Quick and Easy Recipe?

Now that you know how to make Ground Beef and Broccoli, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. With its simple preparation, incredible flavor, and wholesome ingredients, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

Don’t wait—make this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, stress-free dinner!

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