Ground beef and broccoli is a quick and tasty dish that’s packed with flavor! It’s a simple stir-fry that combines juicy ground beef with fresh, crunchy broccoli in a savory sauce.
This dish is perfect for busy nights! I love how easy it is to whip up in one pan. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies—always a win in my book! 🥦🍖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef adds richness to this dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can try turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian alternative, crumble some firm tofu or use a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is a must for a nice crunch and color. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli can do in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the pan.
Soy Sauce: This ingredient brings a nice savory flavor. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the saltiness, which is great if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Oyster Sauce: While it adds depth, it’s optional. If you want a similar taste, consider using hoisin sauce or just extra soy sauce along with a touch of sugar for sweetness.
Sesame Oil: This oil is packed with flavor. If you don’t have it, you might use a bit of olive oil, but the taste will change. A few drops of toasted sesame oil will give a similar nutty profile if you can find it.
How Do I Get the Broccoli Just Right?
Cooking the broccoli perfectly is key. You want it tender yet still vibrant and crunchy. Start by stirring it into the skillet when the beef is nearly done. Make sure to stir-fry it for just 3-4 minutes. This quick cooking keeps the bright green color and retains nutrients.
- Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding broccoli.
- If you’re using frozen broccoli, add it directly from the freezer, and stir-fry for a minute longer.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the rice and another 20 minutes preparing the beef and broccoli. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by cooking the white rice according to the package instructions. This will ensure that it’s ready to serve when your beef and broccoli are finished cooking. Just set it aside once it’s done.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them for about 30 seconds until they smell wonderful and fragrant.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is nicely browned and fully cooked. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to your taste!
4. Add the Broccoli:
Once the beef is cooked, toss in the broccoli florets. Stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes until they become tender yet remain bright green. You want them to keep a nice crunch!
5. Combine the Sauces:
Now, pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if you’re using it). Stir everything together to coat the beef and broccoli evenly. Cook this mixture for another 2 minutes for the flavors to meld.
6. Drizzle with Sesame Oil:
Add the sesame oil to the dish, giving it a good stir to mix well. This will add a delicious nutty flavor to your meal!
7. Serve It Up:
Take your cooked rice and place it on serving plates. Then, spoon the beef and broccoli mixture right over the rice. Finally, sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for a lovely finish.
8. Enjoy Your Meal!
Dig in and savor your delicious ground beef and broccoli! This dish is not only tasty but also colorful and nutritious!
Can I Use Another Type of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as turkey and chicken may cook faster, while tofu may require a bit longer to brown nicely.
What If I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?
No worries! If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can skip it or replace it with a mix of soy sauce and a touch of sugar for sweetness. Alternatively, hoisin sauce also works well as a replacement if you’re looking for a similar flavor profile!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time! Cook the beef and broccoli and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Just be aware that the broccoli may become a little softer when reheated.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the beef and broccoli mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing, and reheat thoroughly when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
