This tasty dish combines ground beef and fresh broccoli in a quick stir-fry. It’s filled with flavor and makes a great meal for busy nights!
I love how the beef gets all tender while the broccoli stays crisp. It’s perfect over rice, and honestly, who doesn’t love a one-pan meal? So easy to make! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best for this dish to keep it healthier. If you want a lighter option, feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken. They have less fat but still provide great protein.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a nice crunch and vibrant color. If broccoli is unavailable, you can use broccoli slaw or even snap peas as an alternative. Both will still bring a lovely texture.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and depth to the dish. If you’re watching your sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. Alternatively, you could use tamari for a gluten-free version.
Oyster Sauce: While optional, it enhances the umami flavor. If you’re avoiding shellfish, a mushroom stir-fry sauce can be a good substitute. It gives a similar depth without the seafood.
Vegetable Oil: I like using vegetable or canola oil, but if you prefer, sesame oil gives a great flavor twist for an Asian-inspired touch. Just keep in mind it’s stronger, so use sparingly!
How Do I Get My Broccoli Perfectly Cooked?
Getting broccoli just right is key to making your dish enjoyable. You want it tender but still vibrant in color. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets to help them cook evenly.
- Add the florets to the skillet once the beef is browned, and make sure they are well coated with the sauce.
- Cover the skillet while cooking to steam the broccoli, which helps it become tender in about 5-7 minutes.
- If you like a nice crunch, check the broccoli a minute or two early! It’ll still be bright green and fresh.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Meat and Veggies:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- Grains:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- Flavors:
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Cooking Essentials:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 20 minutes total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the beef and broccoli, plus a few minutes for serving. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. This will get the pan nice and hot for cooking.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil, and sauté for about 30 seconds until they smell amazing and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to season it with salt and pepper to taste!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, optional oyster sauce, cornstarch, and beef broth. Pour this tasty mixture into the skillet with the cooked ground beef.
5. Add the Broccoli:
Next, stir in the broccoli florets, making sure they’re all coated in the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, so the broccoli becomes tender but still bright green.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When the broccoli is ready, scoop the hearty beef and broccoli mixture over the cooked white rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for a nice touch. Dig in and enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef for Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork as an alternative to ground beef. If you choose a leaner meat like turkey or chicken, keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may be slightly shorter.
What If I Have Frozen Broccoli?
Frozen broccoli can work just fine! Just add it directly to the skillet in step 5, but increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes until it’s heated through and tender. No need to thaw beforehand!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply swap the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative, like tamari. Ensure that the oyster sauce is also gluten-free or omit it for a great flavor still!
