This tasty dish features juicy ground beef and crisp broccoli that’s full of flavor! It’s quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is tight.
I love how colorful it looks on my plate. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, so less mess to clean up! What more can you ask for? Dinner doesn’t get easier than this!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is ideal for this recipe as it cooks quickly and provides great flavor. You can easily swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use crumbled tofu or tempeh.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are best for vibrant color and crunch, but you can use frozen broccoli if that’s what you have! Just adjust cooking time slightly, as frozen broccoli cooks faster.
Garlic and Ginger: These two are key for depth of flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic or ginger, you could use powdered versions, but fresh is always tastier. If you’re sensitive to ginger, you can omit it entirely or substitute with a little more garlic.
Oyster Sauce: This sauce adds a rich umami flavor, but if you’re looking for a vegetarian substitute, use hoisin sauce for a similar sweetness or a mix of soy sauce and a bit of sugar.
Sesame Oil: It gives a lovely aroma. If you’re out, you can use any neutral oil for cooking and add a dollop of peanut butter for that nutty flavor, but sesame oil does add a special touch.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Broccoli?
Cooking broccoli just right can be tricky, but the goal is tender-crisp. To do this, follow these steps:
- Start with a hot skillet or wok to ensure quick cooking and bright color.
- Add broccoli florets and stir-fry for just 3-4 minutes. You want them vibrant and firm, not mushy.
- If you like a little extra flavor, add a splash of water and cover for a minute. This will steam them slightly while still keeping the crunch.
Keep an eye on them; overcooked broccoli loses that beautiful green color and crunch! Serve immediately for the best texture.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
Aromatics:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
Sauces and Seasonings:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 5-10 minutes getting your ingredients ready, and then just about 15 minutes on the stove. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off to keep the dish lighter.
2. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Once the beef is cooked through, toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes until you can really smell the fragrant aromas.
3. Stir-Fry the Broccoli:
Next, add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry the broccoli for about 3-4 minutes, cooking until they turn bright green but remain slightly crisp. This keeps them deliciously fresh!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
While the broccoli is cooking, grab a small bowl. Combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), sesame oil, cornstarch, and water. Stir everything together until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
5. Combine Everything:
Now, pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens up nicely.
6. Season and Serve:
Give it a taste and add salt and pepper as desired. Then, remove the skillet from heat. To serve, scoop the beef and broccoli mixture over a bed of warm cooked white rice.
7. Garnish Your Dish:
Finally, sprinkle the sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top if you like. It adds a nice touch and a bit of crunch. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix and match vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the vegetables you choose to ensure they remain tender-crisp.
What Can I Substitute for Oyster Sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce or prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a bit of sugar. This will give you a similar depth of flavor! If you’re going for a lighter option, simply omit it and add an extra splash of soy sauce.
How Should I Store Any Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the beef and broccoli from drying out.
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, brown rice works great! Just keep in mind that it takes longer to cook than white rice, so you’ll need to adjust your cooking time accordingly. Prepare the brown rice ahead of time for a deliciously nutty flavor that complements the dish!
