Introduction to Ground Beef and Broccoli
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a delicious dinner after a long day. That’s why I love this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe! It’s not just quick; it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. In just 25 minutes, you can serve a meal that will impress your family and satisfy those picky eaters. This dish is a lifesaver for hectic weeknights, combining tender beef and vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your dinner rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Broccoli
This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is a true gem for busy families. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just one skillet and minimal prep time. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both savory and satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the sauce to suit your taste. It’s a quick, delicious solution for those hectic weeknights when you need a meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Ground Beef and Broccoli dish a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground Beef: The star of the show! Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, or go for a bit more fat for extra flavor.
- Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen, broccoli adds a lovely crunch and vibrant color. It’s also packed with vitamins!
- Soy Sauce: This salty, umami-rich sauce brings depth to the dish. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos.
- Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the saltiness of the soy sauce. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup if you prefer.
- Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor. If you’re short on time, pre-minced garlic works too!
- Minced Ginger: This aromatic spice gives a warm, zesty kick. You can use ground ginger in a pinch, but fresh is best.
- Vegetable Oil: For cooking the beef and veggies. Feel free to use olive oil or sesame oil for added flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste for the perfect finish.
For those who like to experiment, consider adding bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition. You can find the exact quantities of these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal in no time.
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by heating two tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to shimmer, which means it’s hot enough to cook the beef. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect sear!
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Once the oil is hot, add one pound of ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it to be nicely browned and cooked through. This is where the flavor begins to build!
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger
Next, stir in one tablespoon of minced garlic and one tablespoon of minced ginger. Cook for an additional minute, allowing those aromatic flavors to infuse the beef. The smell will be heavenly, and your family will start to gather around the kitchen!
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
Now it’s time to add two cups of broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir them in and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re tender but still bright green. This step not only adds nutrition but also a lovely crunch to the dish!
Step 5: Mix Soy Sauce and Brown Sugar
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Pour this mixture over the beef and broccoli in the skillet. This sauce is the magic that ties everything together!
Step 6: Combine and Season
Give everything a good stir to combine, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Your Ground Beef and Broccoli is now ready to serve!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
- Use a non-stick skillet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should be tender yet crisp for the best texture.
- Feel free to adjust the soy sauce and brown sugar to suit your taste preferences.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and freshness!
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any large pan will do.
- Spatula: Use a wooden or silicone spatula for easy stirring and breaking up the beef.
- Measuring Cups: Handy for measuring soy sauce and brown sugar accurately.
- Cutting Board: Essential for chopping garlic, ginger, and any additional veggies.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with crumbled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for some heat.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or noodles.
- Asian Twist: Incorporate sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving for an authentic touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your Ground Beef and Broccoli over fluffy white rice or whole grain noodles for a hearty meal.
- Pair it with a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
- A chilled glass of iced green tea complements the flavors beautifully.
- Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an appealing presentation.
FAQs about Ground Beef and Broccoli
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just as well as fresh. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the skillet. This will help it cook evenly and maintain its vibrant color.
What can I serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles. You can also serve it alongside a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. The options are endless!
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make your Ground Beef and Broccoli gluten-free, simply swap regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. Both options provide that delicious umami flavor without the gluten.
Can I prepare this meal in advance?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just cook everything when you’re ready to eat. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!
What if my family doesn’t like broccoli?
No worries! You can easily substitute broccoli with other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or even zucchini. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is tender.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe brings me so much joy, and I hope it does the same for you! It’s more than just a meal; it’s a chance to gather around the table with loved ones and share a moment of connection. The vibrant colors and delicious flavors make it a feast for the eyes and the palate. Plus, knowing that I can whip it up in just 25 minutes makes it a true weeknight hero. I can’t wait for you to experience the delight of this dish and make it a cherished part of your family’s dinner tradition!
Print
Ground Beef and Broccoli: A Quick, Tasty Dinner Recipe!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and tasty dinner recipe featuring ground beef and broccoli, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute.
- Add broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce and brown sugar, then pour over the beef and broccoli.
- Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.
- Adjust the soy sauce and sugar to taste for a sweeter or saltier dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
