Ground Beef and Broccoli: 7 Quick Tips for a Flavorful Dish

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, let me introduce you to my favorite Ground Beef and Broccoli stir fry! It’s a weeknight lifesaver that comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without all the fuss. Picture tender broccoli florets, savory ground beef, and a sweet and tangy sauce all brought together in one pan. Wow! It’s not only easy to whip up but also packed with healthy ingredients that will keep everyone at the table happy. Trust me, this dish has become a staple in my home, and I bet it will in yours too. Get ready for a flavorful adventure that’ll have you coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ground Beef and Broccoli stir fry is a game changer for your weeknight dinners! Here’s why I think you’ll fall in love with this dish:

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have a complete meal on the table in about 35 minutes. Perfect for those hectic evenings!
• Delicious Flavor: The sweet and savory sauce beautifully coats the tender ground beef and broccoli, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor. I promise, every bite is a delight!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with broccoli, lean ground beef, and a variety of seasonings, this dish is not just tasty but also nutritious. It’s a great way to sneak in those veggies!
• Customizable: You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your family’s taste. Want to add more veggies? Go for it! Prefer a different protein? Swap it out! The possibilities are endless.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it! The familiar flavors and fun textures make it a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring a happy dining experience for everyone.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this tasty Ground Beef and Broccoli stir fry. I love how simple yet flavorful these ingredients are!

• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or you can use vegetable or olive oil)
• 3 cups broccoli florets, washed and patted dry
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• Salt and white pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water
• 1 cup beef broth
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons honey (to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 3 cups cooked rice (for serving)

How to Prepare Ground Beef and Broccoli

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to dive into the cooking process! This Ground Beef and Broccoli stir fry is not only quick but also super easy to make. Just follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious meal that your family will love.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First, let’s prepare the sauce! In a covered container, mix together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Give it a good shake until it’s smooth, then set it aside. This will help thicken your sauce later.
2. Next, grab a bowl and combine the remaining sauce ingredients: 1 cup of beef broth, ¼ cup of soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1-2 tablespoons of honey (start with 1 and taste later), minced garlic, ground ginger, and 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil. Stir it all together until the sugar is dissolved and set it aside.
3. Now, let’s heat things up! In a large skillet or wok, add 1 tablespoon of peanut oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, toss in the 3 cups of broccoli florets. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they start to get slightly tender but still crisp. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside.
4. In the same pan, add your seasoned ground beef and diced yellow onion. Cook them together over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess grease before moving on!
5. Time to add some color! Toss in the sliced red bell pepper and cook for just 1 minute. You want them to stay vibrant and crunchy!
6. Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the pan and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. You’ll see it start to thicken up a bit.
7. Now, shake that cornstarch mixture you set aside earlier and slowly stir it into the sauce. Keep stirring until it gently bubbles and thickens to your liking. This is where the magic happens!
8. Finally, reduce the heat to low and add the broccoli back into the pan. Stir it all together until the broccoli is heated through, making sure every piece gets coated in that tasty sauce.
9. Serve your Ground Beef and Broccoli over a bed of warm cooked rice, and if you like, garnish with some chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor!

And there you have it! A quick, satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor and ready in no time. Enjoy every bite!

Tips for Success

To make your Ground Beef and Broccoli stir fry truly shine, I’ve gathered some of my top tips that have helped me perfect this dish over the years. Trust me, these little tweaks can take your meal from good to absolutely fantastic!

• Choose Your Protein: If you want to mix things up, ground turkey or chicken makes a great substitute for beef. They provide a lighter flavor but still work beautifully with the sauce and veggies.
• Frozen Broccoli is Your Friend: Don’t fret if fresh broccoli isn’t available! Frozen broccoli works just as well. Just be sure to thaw and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
• Customize Your Veggies: This recipe is super adaptable! Feel free to add in other veggies like carrots, water chestnuts, or even snap peas. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly for denser vegetables.
• Adjust the Sweetness: When it comes to the honey in your sauce, start with 1 tablespoon and taste as you go. You can always add more if you like it sweeter, but it’s easier to add than to take away!
• Don’t Skip the Sesame Oil: That teaspoon of toasted sesame oil adds a nutty depth that really elevates the dish. I wouldn’t recommend skipping it, but if you must, consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds when serving for that flavor boost.
• Let the Sauce Bubble: When you add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce, it’s important to let it bubble gently for a minute or two. This helps to activate the thickening power and gives you that glossy, restaurant-style finish.
• Serve it Hot: This dish is best served immediately after cooking. If you need to keep it warm, cover it with a lid and set it on low heat while you finish prepping your rice.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this Ground Beef and Broccoli stir fry. Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best things about this Ground Beef and Broccoli dish is how easily you can customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up and keep your meals exciting:

• Different Proteins: While ground beef is delicious, don’t hesitate to try ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Each protein brings its own unique flavor and texture!
• Veggie Medley: Mix in other vegetables to enhance the nutritional value and add color. Carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy would work beautifully. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on how quickly they cook!
• Switch Up the Sauce: Experiment with different sauces! Try adding teriyaki sauce for a sweeter twist or a splash of oyster sauce for an umami kick. You could even throw in some chili sauce or sriracha if you like a bit of heat!
• Noodle Delight: Instead of serving this stir fry over rice, toss it with cooked noodles like udon or rice noodles for a comforting twist. It’s a fantastic way to change the texture and feel of the dish!
• Add Crunch: For an extra layer of texture, consider topping your dish with chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, or even crispy chow mein noodles. They add a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the tender beef and broccoli.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro or basil can add a burst of freshness that really brightens up the dish. Just sprinkle some on top right before serving for an aromatic finish!

These variations allow you to make this Ground Beef and Broccoli dish your own, so feel free to get creative and have fun in the kitchen. Enjoy the journey of discovering new flavors!

Nutritional Information

It’s always good to know what’s on your plate! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values for one serving of this delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli stir fry. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so it’s a rough guide:

• Calories: 488
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 65 g
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 1138 mg

This dish is a great source of protein and packed with veggies, making it a balanced option for busy weeknights. Enjoy nourishing your body while savoring every bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Don’t worry, this Ground Beef and Broccoli stir fry keeps surprisingly well, and I’ve got some tips to help you store and reheat it like a pro! Proper storage is key to enjoying those delicious flavors again without losing any of that awesome taste.

First things first, let your stir fry cool down to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your dish soggy. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. I like to use glass containers because they keep everything fresh and you can pop them right in the microwave!

Store your Ground Beef and Broccoli in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or bag, and it’ll last for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Now, onto reheating. The microwave is super convenient, but I recommend reheating on the stove if you have the time. Just add a splash of beef broth or water to a pan over medium heat and stir until heated through. This helps maintain that delightful texture and prevents it from drying out. If you’re using the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until everything is steaming hot.

And voilà! You’ve got a quick and tasty meal ready to enjoy again without sacrificing the fantastic flavors you love. Happy eating!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making this delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli stir fry? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get, along with my best tips and tricks:

Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully in this dish if you’re looking for a lighter option. You can even use tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the protein you choose!

How can I adjust the spice level?

If you like things spicy, consider adding some chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Start with a small amount and taste as you go; it’s easier to add more heat than to tone it down. You could also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick!

What can I serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli?

This dish pairs perfectly with warm cooked rice, but you can also serve it over noodles for a fun twist. If you want to keep it low-carb, try cauliflower rice! Adding a fresh side salad can also brighten up your meal.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli is a great option! Just make sure to thaw it and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish. It saves time and still tastes fantastic!

What if I don’t have beef broth?

No problem! You can substitute with chicken broth or even vegetable broth for a lighter flavor. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning if you’re using a broth that’s low in sodium.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, I recommend using the stove with a splash of broth or water, which helps maintain that lovely texture. The microwave works too—just heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot!

I hope these tips help you enjoy your Ground Beef and Broccoli stir fry to the fullest! If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out. Happy cooking!

For more recipes follow me in page Pinterest.

Print