Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick, flavorful stir-fry that combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious balance of protein and vegetables. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal meal for anyone craving a healthy and satisfying dinner. Serve it over rice for a complete, nutritious meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable or 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 (adjust to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

For Serving:

• 3 cups cooked rice (any variety)

Instructions

1. Prep the Sauce:

• In a small container, combine cornstarch and cold water. Shake until fully mixed and set aside.
• In a medium bowl, combine the remaining sauce ingredients: beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, and toasted sesame oil. Set aside.

2. Cook the Broccoli:

• Heat the peanut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and toss to coat in the oil.
• Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is slightly softened, then remove it from the pan and set it aside.

3. Cook the Beef:

• Season the ground beef with salt and white pepper. Add the beef and diced onions to the skillet and cook over medium-high heat, crumbling the beef as it browns.
• Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess grease. Add the sliced bell pepper and cook for an additional 1 minute.

4. Add the Sauce:

• Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the beef and onions, bringing it to a boil. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
• Shake the cornstarch mixture again and gradually stir it into the sauce. Let it simmer gently until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.

5. Combine and Serve:

• Reduce the heat to low, then add the cooked broccoli back to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat the broccoli through.
• Serve the beef and broccoli over a bed of rice. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful: The savory sauce with soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger gives this dish rich, satisfying flavors.
• Healthy: Packed with broccoli, this dish provides a good amount of vegetables, making it a wholesome meal.

Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: For the best texture, aim for slightly tender broccoli, not overcooked or mushy.
• Adjust Sweetness: Start with 1 tablespoon of honey and add more as needed to reach your desired sweetness level.
• Use Lean Beef: For a leaner version, opt for lean ground beef or ground turkey.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version of this dish.
• Different Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms.
• Rice Alternatives: Serve over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a change from traditional rice.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, though fresh broccoli will provide better texture and flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The beef and broccoli stir-fry can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Serving and Suggestions

• Pair with a Side: Serve with a side of garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a light salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Add More Heat: If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add chili paste to the sauce.
• For a Full Meal: Pair with a vegetable stir-fry or a side of pickled cucumbers to complement the flavors of the beef and broccoli.