why make this recipe

Ground Beef and Broccoli is an easy, delicious dish that combines protein and veggies in a tasty way. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It cooks up quickly and uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to get your family to eat their greens.

how to make Ground Beef and Broccoli

Ingredients :

1 Tablespoon olive oil
3-4 cups broccoli florets (see note)
1 pound lean ground beef (or ground sirloin)
2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
8-10 cranks freshly-ground black pepper
sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Directions :

Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add broccoli and cook, tossing frequently, for 3-4 minutes, until it is vibrantly green with a tender-crisp texture. Remove to a plate and set aside.
Add ground beef and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, until mostly browned, breaking it up into small pieces as you go. Drain or use a paper towel to soak up excess fat.
While the beef browns, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, ginger, red and black pepper in a small bowl or liquid measuring cup. Whisk until smooth.
As soon as the beef is browned, pour in the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes more, just until the sauce thickens slightly. Return broccoli to the pan and toss to coat. Season with salt to taste, and serve right away over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds, as desired.

how to serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli over a bed of steamed rice or cooked noodles for a complete meal. You can also add some extra sesame seeds on top for a nice crunch. Pair it with a light salad or some pickled vegetables to balance the meal.

how to store Ground Beef and Broccoli

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until it is heated through.

tips to make Ground Beef and Broccoli

Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
Adjust the sauce ingredients to fit your taste—add more ginger or spice if you like it hot.
Use a leaner cut of beef for a healthier version.
You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas if you want more color and nutrients.

variation

You can swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try using tofu or tempeh instead.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it before cooking for even results.

What can I serve with this dish?
Rice and noodles are popular sides, but you can also serve it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce in advance. Just combine them with the broccoli and heat before serving.