Ground beef and broccoli is a delightful dish that strikes a perfect balance between savory flavors and satisfying textures. This meal combines juicy ground beef with tender-crisp broccoli in a rich soy and oyster sauce blend. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or any time you crave something comforting yet nutritious. Personally, this dish has become a staple in my household, thanks to its quick preparation and kid-approved taste. Whether you’re in need of a filling dinner or a protein-packed lunch, you’ll see why this classic is so beloved.
Why you’ll love this dish
Ground beef and broccoli is not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly. Most of the ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making it a hassle-free option for those hectic days. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a family favorite; kids love the savory beef and bright green broccoli, making it a win-win for parents trying to sneak in those veggies. It’s a simple recipe that packs a nutritional punch, providing protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
“I made this last week and my kids couldn’t get enough! It’s now on our regular dinner rotation.”
Preparing ground beef and broccoli
Creating this flavorful dish is straightforward and doesn’t require any culinary expertise. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect from the cooking process:
- Sauté the beef: Start by cooking your ground beef until it’s nicely browned.
- Add aromatics: Stir in garlic and ginger for a fragrant boost.
- Cook the broccoli: Toss in the broccoli and let it cook until it’s just tender.
- Sauce it up: Finish with soy and oyster sauces, seasoning for extra flavor.
- Serve: Plate it up over rice for a complete meal.
What you’ll need
Gather these items to make your own delicious ground beef and broccoli:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option, and the soy sauce can be replaced with tamari for a gluten-free version.
Step-by-step instructions
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious dish:
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Cook the beef: Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli: Toss in the broccoli florets, sautéing for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to remain bright green and tender-crisp.
- Sauces: Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, mixing everything well to ensure the beef and broccoli are coated.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preference.
- Serve: Dish it over a bed of cooked rice and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving ground beef and broccoli, there’s plenty of room for creativity.
- Serve Over Rice: The traditional method is to serve it over fluffy white or brown rice, which absorbs the delicious sauce.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, try cauliflower rice to keep things light and healthy.
- Garnish: Top it with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an added crunch and flavor.
Feel free to pair it with a side salad or some steamed dumplings for a complete Asian-inspired dinner.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To maximize the freshness of your leftovers, store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for up to 3 days.
If you want to freeze it, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to a month. Just remember to reheat it thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F before enjoying.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some practical tips for making this dish even better:
- Brown the Beef Properly: Make sure to cook the beef until it’s fully browned for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: For a perfect texture, keep the broccoli tender-crisp by cooking it just long enough.
- Use Leftover Proteins: This recipe is flexible. If you have leftover proteins, such as chicken or tofu, feel free to add those in!
Creative twists
There are numerous ways to personalize ground beef and broccoli:
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
- Vegetable Medley: Incorporate bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
- Sauce Variations: Substitute the oyster sauce with hoisin for a sweeter sauce or add some lime juice for a zesty twist.
Common questions
How long does this take to prepare?
You can expect this dish to take about 30 minutes from prep to plate.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before cooking.
What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce on hand, you can substitute with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a touch of sugar.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein, like lentils, and use soy sauce and vegetable broth for depth.
Ground beef and broccoli is more than just a quick meal; it’s a versatile recipe that can easily adapt to your tastes while delivering a wholesome dining experience. Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Print
Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Description
A delightful dish that combines juicy ground beef with tender-crisp broccoli in a rich soy and oyster sauce blend, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Toss in the broccoli florets, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
- Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, mixing well to coat the beef and broccoli.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting based on preference.
- Serve over a bed of cooked rice and enjoy!
Notes
For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken. Use tamari for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian