This Ground Beef and Broccoli dish is a quick and tasty meal that packs a punch! With tender broccoli and juicy beef in a sweet and savory sauce, it’s perfect for busy nights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. You can use turkey or chicken for a leaner option or even go plant-based with lentils or meat substitutes if you’re looking to avoid red meat.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives great texture and nutrition. If you don’t have it, feel free to substitute with other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for a different twist!
Rice: I prefer using white rice, but brown rice adds a nice nuttiness and more fiber. Quinoa can also be a fantastic substitute for a gluten-free option.
Oyster Sauce: While it adds a touch of umami, you can leave this out if you want to keep it simple. For a vegetarian version, look for mushroom sauce instead.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh is best for these ingredients, but in a pinch, you can use powdered versions. Fresh ingredients always boost flavors!
How Do I Get the Ground Beef Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking ground beef might seem simple, but there are a few tips that can help you achieve the best results without making it tough.
- Start with a hot skillet to sear the beef quickly, which locks in the juices.
- Break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks to ensure it browns evenly.
- Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This helps the meat brown instead of steam.
- Season with salt and pepper as it cooks for better flavor absorption.
Following these tips will help you cook ground beef that’s juicy and flavorful, perfect for your stir-fry!
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes around 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping ingredients like dicing the onion and mincing the garlic and ginger, with the cooking process taking about 20 minutes. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and soft, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step brings out the sweetness of the onion!
2. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry everything for another 1-2 minutes until you can smell those amazing aromas filling your kitchen. Be careful not to burn them!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Now, increase the heat to high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook the meat until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. No pink should remain!
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring them in with the beef. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp. This keeps it nice and vibrant!
5. Make the Sauce:
While the beef and broccoli are cooking, grab a small bowl and combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), beef broth, and cornstarch. Stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved—this will help thicken your sauce.
6. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and broccoli in the skillet. Stir everything to combine well, then let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and thicken the sauce slightly.
7. Finish with Sesame Oil:
Drizzle the sesame oil over your stir-fry and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final stir and make sure everything is evenly coated and flavorful!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your wonderful ground beef and broccoli over a mound of cooked white rice. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and some sliced green onions for a lovely touch. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Another Type of Meat Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly, as leaner meats may cook faster than beef.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to help maintain moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and ensure that the oyster sauce you use is gluten-free or simply leave it out. The dish will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste before serving!
