When you take your first bite of Ground Beef and Broccoli, the combination of tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce creates a satisfying experience. This quick, 30-minute meal easily brings together flavors and textures for a weeknight dinner that your family will love. The best part? It’s versatile and can be served over rice or quinoa for a complete dish.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a great option for meal prep, as it stays fresh for a few days in the fridge, allowing for easy lunches.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for quick dinners.
- You can customize the sauce to fit your flavor preferences or dietary restrictions.
- The combination of beef and broccoli offers both protein and nutrients in every bite.
- It’s a one-pan meal, which means easy cleanup after cooking.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients for this flavorful dish.
For the Beef
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
For Serving
- Cooked rice or quinoa
Oyster sauce can be omitted for a vegetarian option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Ground turkey or chicken for beef
- Coconut aminos for soy sauce
- Honey or maple syrup for brown sugar
- Low-sodium broth for less salt
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal.
Sauté beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Add vegetables
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
Stir in broccoli
Stir in the broccoli florets, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), brown sugar, and beef broth. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it in. Let everything simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Finish and season
Stir in the sesame oil and grated ginger (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, adding more soy sauce or sugar if needed.
Serve
Serve the ground beef and broccoli over cooked rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Enjoy!
How to Store It
Fridge: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh broccoli for a crunchier texture.
- Adjust soy sauce to taste if you prefer a saltier dish.
- Consider adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair it with steamed jasmine or basmati rice.
- Enjoy as a meal prep option for the week.
- Serve alongside a side salad for extra freshness.
