Ground Beef and Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines savory ground beef with fresh broccoli in a flavorful sauce. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also offers a nutritious meal option for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. The combination of tender meat and crisp vegetables creates a wonderful texture that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles. In less than 30 minutes, you can have this delicious meal on the table. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this dish is approachable and rewarding. By following this recipe, you’ll discover how easy it is to make your own homemade version of this classic takeout favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Broccoli

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the beef and essential vitamins from the broccoli, it’s a wholesome choice

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Ingredients for Ground Beef and Broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option while maintaining great flavor
• Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets for the best taste; you can also use frozen if needed
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth to the dish; use it generously for enhanced flavor
• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while providing umami richness

For the Sauce:

• Oyster Sauce: This ingredient elevates the overall taste; choose high-quality oyster sauce for best results

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by washing the broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Cut it into bite-sized florets. Mince the garlic finely.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks—about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Once the beef is fully cooked, add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Broccoli

Stir in the prepared broccoli florets. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and any desired spices. Pour this mixture over the cooked beef and broccoli.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Toss everything together until well-coated in sauce. Let it simmer for about two more minutes to meld flavors.

Transfer to plates and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Add Heat: If you enjoy spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or sriracha to kick up the flavor
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well; make extra servings for easy reheating throughout the week

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

This Ground Beef and Broccoli is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the ground beef mixture ahead of time. Cook it fully, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This saves you time on busy weeknights.
• Storing: Leftovers should be placed in an airtight container and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply place your portion in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it on medium power for about 3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.

Suggestions for Ground Beef and Broccoli

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for making a delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli dish. Fresh broccoli retains its vibrant color and crisp texture, enhancing the overall taste of your meal. When selecting ground beef, opt for high-quality cuts with a good fat content, ideally 80/20. This balance ensures that the meat stays juicy during cooking, preventing it from becoming dry or tough. Avoid using wilted or yellowing broccoli, as it will alter the flavor and texture of your dish. Remember, fresh ingredients lead to a more flavorful and visually appealing meal.

Avoid Overcooking the Broccoli

Overcooking broccoli can result in a mushy texture and loss of nutrients. To achieve perfectly cooked broccoli that complements your Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe, blanch it briefly in boiling water before adding it to the stir-fry. This method helps retain its bright green color and crunch while ensuring it cooks through when mixed with the beef. Keep an eye on cooking times; you want to aim for tender-crisp broccoli. Proper cooking techniques will enhance the overall quality of your dish, making it more enjoyable.

Seasoning Wisely

Seasoning plays a vital role in bringing out the flavors in your Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe. However, it’s essential not to overdo it; too much salt can overpower other flavors. Start with a small amount of soy sauce or oyster sauce, balancing them with garlic and ginger for depth. Taste as you go to find the perfect flavor profile that suits your palate without overwhelming the dish. Remember that seasonings can always be adjusted later, so begin conservatively for the best results.

Choosing the Right Cooking Method

Choosing the right cooking method significantly impacts the texture and flavor of your Ground Beef and Broccoli meal. Stir-frying is highly recommended as it allows you to cook both ingredients quickly at high heat while retaining their nutrients and flavors. Avoid boiling or steaming them together too long, as this can lead to sogginess in both the beef and broccoli. A hot wok or skillet also promotes browning in the beef, giving your dish a richer taste. Opt for high heat combined with quick cooking techniques for optimal results.

FAQs

What is a good way to store leftover Ground Beef and Broccoli?

To store leftover Ground Beef and Broccoli properly, allow it to cool down before transferring it into an airtight container. This method prevents moisture buildup that can lead to spoilage or unwanted textures upon reheating. Store leftovers in the refrigerator if you plan to consume them within three days; otherwise, consider freezing them for longer storage. When freezing, ensure you label containers with dates for easy tracking. To reheat, use a microwave or stove until heated through but avoid overcooking again to maintain quality.

Can I use other vegetables with Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Yes! While broccoli is a classic pairing with ground beef, feel free to experiment with other vegetables based on personal preference or seasonal availability. Carrots add sweetness and color; bell peppers provide crunch; snap peas introduce freshness; or mushrooms contribute umami depth. Just remember that different vegetables may require varying cooking times; adjust accordingly so everything cooks evenly without compromising texture or flavor.

How can I make my Ground Beef and Broccoli dish healthier?

Making your Ground Beef and Broccoli dish healthier is easier than you might think! Start by using lean ground beef to reduce fat content while still enjoying robust flavors. Incorporate more vegetables into your recipe—consider adding bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini—to enhance nutrition without sacrificing taste. You can also replace regular soy sauce with low-sodium options to cut back on sodium levels without losing flavor. Lastly, serve your stir-fry over whole grains like brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for added fiber.

What are some delicious side dishes for Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Ground Beef and Broccoli pairs excellently with various side dishes that complement its flavors well. Consider serving it alongside jasmine rice or brown rice as they absorb any extra sauce beautifully while adding bulk to your meal. Another option is cauliflower rice if you’re looking for something lower in carbs yet still satisfying. For added crunch, serve cucumber salad dressed lightly in vinegar or sesame oil—it refreshes the palate between bites! Choose sides based on personal preference while ensuring they enhance rather than overshadow this delicious main dish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, preparing a fantastic Ground Beef and Broccoli dish involves careful attention to ingredient selection, cooking techniques, seasoning balance, and avoiding common mistakes such as overcooking vegetables. By utilizing fresh ingredients like high-quality ground beef and vibrant broccoli while mastering proper cooking methods such as stir-frying at high heat ensures optimal flavor retention throughout each bite! Additionally, don’t hesitate to get creative by incorporating other veggies or adjusting seasonings according to personal preference—this flexibility allows everyone an opportunity to enjoy this classic meal!

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Quick Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe

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• Author: Cecilia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick and delicious dish that combines tender ground beef with vibrant, crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes. Packed with protein and essential vitamins, it’s a nutritious choice for the whole family. The richness of the beef complements the freshness of the broccoli, creating an irresistible flavor that pairs beautifully with rice or noodles. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is approachable for cooks at any skill level. Enjoy a homemade version of this classic takeout favorite that will surely become a weekly staple in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup oyster sauce

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Instructions

1. 1. Wash the broccoli under cold water and cut into bite-sized florets. Mince the garlic.
2. 2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
3. 3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. 4. Stir in broccoli florets and cook until tender-crisp (about 3-4 minutes).
5. 5. Mix soy sauce and oyster sauce in a small bowl; pour over beef and broccoli.
6. 6. Toss to combine and simmer for an additional 2 minutes before serving over rice or noodles.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added spice, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or sriracha. Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.