We’ve discovered the perfect weeknight dinner solution that’ll have your family asking for seconds – this incredible ground beef broccoli recipe. This hearty one-pan wonder combines tender ground beef with crisp-fresh broccoli in a savory sauce that brings everything together beautifully.
What makes this dish truly special is how it transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The ground beef provides rich protein while the broccoli adds that perfect pop of color and nutrition. We love how this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup – everything cooks in one skillet for easy weeknight success.
You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comes together. In just 20 minutes you can have a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids or looking for a healthy dinner option that doesn’t sacrifice taste this ground beef broccoli recipe checks every box.
Ingredients
We’ve organized this ground beef broccoli recipe into three simple categories to make your shopping and prep work effortless. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and savory flavors.
For the Ground Beef
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Broccoli
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup water for steaming
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sauce
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Equipment Needed
Creating this ground beef broccoli recipe requires just a few essential kitchen tools that most home cooks already have on hand. We’ve streamlined the equipment list to make preparation as simple as possible.
Essential Cooking Equipment:
- Large skillet or sauté pan (stainless steel or nonstick recommended)
- Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
- Cutting board for safe food preparation
- Measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient portions
Preparation Tools:
- Prep bowls for organizing ingredients before cooking
- Rice cooker (optional) if serving with rice
The large skillet serves as our primary cooking vessel where we’ll sauté the broccoli first and then cook the ground beef with aromatics. We recommend using either a stainless steel or nonstick pan to prevent sticking and ensure even heat distribution throughout the cooking process.
Sharp knives make quick work of chopping fresh broccoli florets and slicing onions to the proper thickness. Prep bowls help us stay organized by keeping ingredients measured and ready to add at the right moments during cooking.
Measuring tools ensure we get the sauce proportions exactly right for that perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors. Since this recipe comes together quickly we want all our ingredients prepped and measured before we start cooking.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – we need just one main pan for cooking which means minimal cleanup after dinner. Our straightforward equipment list makes this dish accessible to cooks of all skill levels while delivering restaurant quality results at home.
Prep Work
Proper preparation sets the foundation for this delicious ground beef broccoli recipe. We’ll organize our ingredients into three main components to streamline the cooking process.
Preparing the Broccoli
We start by washing and drying our 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets thoroughly under cold running water. Cut the broccoli head into evenly sized florets, leaving some stem attached for added texture and structural integrity during cooking.
Keeping the florets roughly the same size ensures even cooking throughout the dish. We can optionally slice our medium yellow onion into thin strips and combine it with the broccoli for enhanced flavor depth.
Preparing the Ground Beef
We select lean ground beef for a healthier option that still delivers rich flavor and satisfying protein. Have our garlic and ginger ready by mincing them finely or using paste forms for quick incorporation into the dish.
Chopping scallions ahead of time allows us to add them with the beef for extra aromatic appeal. When we cook the ground beef in our large skillet, we avoid constant stirring initially to allow proper caramelization, which builds better flavor foundation.
Making the Sauce
We combine all sauce ingredients in a prep bowl to create our flavorful coating. Mix together these components until smooth:
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste or fresh minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch for thickening
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Having our sauce prepared before cooking begins ensures smooth execution during the stir-fry process. The cornstarch will thicken the sauce while the combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar creates the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Instructions
We’ll walk through this recipe in four simple steps that build upon each other for maximum flavor. Our method ensures perfectly cooked ground beef and tender crisp broccoli coated in that irresistible savory sauce.
Cooking the Ground Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for approximately 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. We want the beef completely cooked through with no pink remaining. If excess fat accumulates in the pan, spoon some out to prevent the dish from becoming greasy. The properly browned beef creates a flavorful foundation for our sauce to cling to.
Steaming the Broccoli
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the same skillet or use a separate pan if preferred. Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking. We’re aiming for tender crisp broccoli that maintains its vibrant green color and slight crunch. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside temporarily while we prepare the sauce.
Combining the Ingredients
Reduce the heat to medium to prevent the sauce from burning. Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet with the ground beef. Pour the pre-mixed sauce over the beef and broccoli combination. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring each piece gets coated with the glossy sauce. Cook for 1-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and creates a beautiful glaze that coats all the ingredients.
Final Seasoning
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. Add more soy sauce for extra umami depth or sprinkle in additional red pepper flakes if you crave more heat. Remove the skillet from heat immediately once the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Serve the ground beef broccoli hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal that delivers restaurant quality flavors in just 30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
We recommend serving this ground beef broccoli stir fry over a bed of steamed jasmine rice to absorb the delicious sauce. White rice provides the perfect neutral base that complements the savory and slightly sweet flavors of our dish. Brown rice offers a nuttier texture and additional fiber for those seeking a healthier option.
Cauliflower rice works wonderfully as a low-carb alternative without sacrificing flavor. We simply pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor and sauté them briefly for a rice-like texture. This substitution reduces the carb content while maintaining the satisfying nature of our meal.
Our ground beef broccoli pairs beautifully with other blanched vegetables to create a more colorful and nutritious plate. We often add crisp asparagus spears or bell pepper strips during the final cooking stage. Zucchini ribbons and snap peas also integrate seamlessly into this versatile dish.
| Serving Option | Prep Time | Nutritional Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed jasmine rice | 20 minutes | High energy carbs |
| Brown rice | 25 minutes | Added fiber and nutrients |
| Cauliflower rice | 5 minutes | Low-carb alternative |
| Quinoa | 15 minutes | Complete protein source |
We suggest garnishing each serving with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and nutty flavor. Fresh green onions provide a bright pop of color and mild onion taste that enhances the overall presentation. A drizzle of sesame oil right before serving adds an authentic Asian restaurant touch.
This recipe excels as a quick weeknight dinner solution that delivers both convenience and nutrition. We find it particularly satisfying when served family-style, allowing everyone to customize their portions according to their preferences. The combination of protein, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates creates a well-balanced meal that keeps us energized throughout the evening.
Storage and Reheating
Once you’ve enjoyed this delicious ground beef and broccoli meal, proper storage techniques will help you savor the leftovers safely. We’ll guide you through the best methods to maintain both flavor and food safety.
Refrigerator Storage
Store your leftover ground beef and broccoli in an airtight container immediately after it cools to room temperature. The dish will remain fresh and safe to eat for 3 to 4 days when properly refrigerated. We recommend dividing larger portions into smaller containers to ensure faster cooling and easier reheating later.
Freezer Storage
Transfer cooled leftovers to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for longer storage. Your ground beef and broccoli will maintain its best quality for up to 2 to 3 months in the freezer. Always thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even heating and food safety.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat your ground beef and broccoli on the stovetop over medium heat while stirring occasionally until warmed through completely. Alternatively, you can use the microwave by placing the dish in a microwave-safe container and heating for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating. Add a splash of water during reheating if the sauce becomes too thick, which will help restore the original consistency and prevent the dish from drying out.
Recipe Variations
Our ground beef broccoli recipe serves as a versatile foundation that adapts beautifully to different dietary needs and preferences. These variations maintain the dish’s signature savory flavor while allowing you to customize ingredients based on what you have available.
Low-Carb Options
We can easily transform this recipe into a low-carb powerhouse by serving it over cauliflower rice instead of traditional jasmine rice. Steam fresh cauliflower florets and pulse them in a food processor until they resemble rice grains, then sauté briefly with a touch of sesame oil.
For the sauce, we recommend using low-sodium soy sauce and replacing the brown sugar with erythritol or stevia to maintain sweetness without the carbohydrates. This modification keeps all the savory depth while reducing the total carbs significantly.
Another approach involves enjoying the beef and broccoli as a standalone stir-fry without any grain accompaniment. The protein and vegetables provide satisfying substance on their own, creating a filling meal that aligns with ketogenic and other low-carb eating plans.
Different Protein Alternatives
Lean ground turkey offers an excellent substitute for ground beef, providing a lighter flavor profile while reducing fat content. Cook the turkey using the same method, though it may require slightly less cooking time to avoid drying out.
We’ve found that thinly sliced flank steak or stir-fry beef creates a more traditional texture similar to restaurant-style beef and broccoli. Slice the meat against the grain and cook it quickly over high heat to maintain tenderness.
Ground chicken works equally well in this recipe, absorbing the sauce flavors beautifully while providing a milder taste. For plant-based options, crumbled extra-firm tofu or tempeh can be marinated in the sauce mixture before cooking with the broccoli.
Vegetable Additions
Bell peppers add vibrant color and sweet crunch when sliced and cooked alongside the broccoli. Red, yellow, or orange varieties work particularly well, contributing both visual appeal and nutritional value to the dish.
Snap peas provide excellent texture contrast and cook quickly, making them perfect for this stir-fry style preparation. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking to maintain their bright green color and crisp bite.
Sliced mushrooms bring earthy depth to the flavor profile, while thinly sliced onions create aromatic sweetness that complements the savory sauce. Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the complexity, though we recommend mincing them finely for even distribution throughout the dish.
Tips for Success
We’ve discovered several key techniques that make this ground beef broccoli recipe consistently delicious and foolproof for home cooks.
Choose the Right Ground Beef
Lean ground beef works best for this recipe because it reduces excess grease that can make the dish heavy. We recommend using 85/15 or 90/10 ground beef ratios to maintain flavor while keeping the stir fry from becoming too oily.
Master the Broccoli Steaming Technique
Steaming the broccoli florets first ensures they become tender yet remain crisp. We add the broccoli and water to the skillet, cover tightly, and steam for exactly 5 minutes. This method prevents overcooking while maintaining that perfect bite texture.
Build Flavor with the Aromatics
Cooking the beef and onions together creates a savory foundation before adding the sauce. We brown the ground beef thoroughly for about 7 minutes to develop deep flavors that enhance the entire dish.
Perfect the Sauce Balance
The marinade’s combination of soy sauce, honey, rice wine vinegar, ginger, and garlic creates a harmonious sweet and savory profile. We whisk all sauce ingredients together before cooking to ensure even distribution and proper thickening.
Use Cornstarch for Proper Thickening
Cornstarch acts as the essential thickening agent that helps the sauce coat the beef and broccoli perfectly. We mix it directly into the marinade to prevent lumps and achieve a glossy finish.
Prep Ingredients in Advance
For quicker weeknight preparation, we recommend chopping all vegetables and mixing the sauce ahead of time. This strategy reduces active cooking time and ensures everything comes together smoothly.
Serve Immediately for Best Results
Pairing the dish with white rice is classic and complements the flavors beautifully. We serve the stir fry hot immediately after cooking to maintain the optimal texture and temperature contrast between the warm dish and fluffy rice.
Conclusion
This ground beef broccoli recipe proves that weeknight dinners don’t have to be complicated to be delicious. We’ve shown you how simple ingredients can transform into a restaurant-quality meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and convenience. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or meal prepping for the week the combination of protein-packed beef and nutrient-rich broccoli delivers both satisfaction and nutrition.
With our step-by-step guide storage tips and recipe variations you’re equipped to make this recipe your own. The one-pan cooking method means less cleanup and more time enjoying your flavorful homemade meal.
Give this recipe a try tonight and discover how easy it is to create a healthy satisfying dinner that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make ground beef and broccoli?
This ground beef and broccoli recipe takes just 20-30 minutes from start to finish. The quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a healthy, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
What type of ground beef should I use for this recipe?
Use lean ground beef with an 85/15 or 90/10 lean-to-fat ratio. This prevents excess grease while maintaining flavor and juiciness. The lean beef also helps create a cleaner-tasting dish that pairs well with the savory sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep ingredients in advance by chopping vegetables and mixing the sauce. The cooked dish stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or can be frozen for 2-3 months in freezer-safe containers.
What can I serve with ground beef and broccoli?
Serve over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions for added flavor and visual appeal. The dish works great as a complete meal.
Can I substitute the ground beef with other proteins?
Absolutely! Try lean ground turkey, ground chicken, sliced flank steak, or plant-based options like tofu or tempeh. Adjust cooking times accordingly, ensuring proteins reach safe internal temperatures before serving.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain texture and flavor.
What vegetables can I add to this recipe?
Enhance the dish with bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, carrots, or onions. Add harder vegetables early in the cooking process and softer ones toward the end to ensure even cooking and optimal texture.
How do I prevent the broccoli from getting mushy?
Steam the broccoli until it’s tender-crisp and vibrant green, typically 3-4 minutes. Don’t overcook it, and add it to the skillet just long enough to coat with sauce while maintaining its texture and nutritional value.
