Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe

If you're searching for a quick, nutritious, and incredibly delicious meal, you've found it! This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe will become one of your go-to weeknight dinners. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and loaded with protein and healthy vegetables. Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe offers a delightful mix of taste and simplicity. Read on to discover everything you need to know, from ingredients to cooking steps, variations, and presentation ideas. Let’s get started!

this Recipe

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What Is "Ground Beef and Broccoli"?

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a simple stir-fry dish, combining savory ground beef with fresh broccoli, cooked in a delicious sauce. Originating from Chinese-American cuisine, it’s often compared to the classic beef and broccoli dish you might find at a local Chinese restaurant. However, the use of ground beef instead of sliced beef makes this recipe quicker and more affordable without compromising on flavor. The sauce is typically a combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of sweetness, all of which coat the beef and broccoli perfectly.

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Ingredients List for Ground Beef and Broccoli

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients for the recipe. This list ensures a perfect balance of flavors, with each item playing an essential role in the dish.

For the Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry:

1. 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably lean)
2. 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 heads of broccoli)
3. 1 small onion, diced
4. 3 garlic cloves, minced
5. 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
6. 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
7. 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
8. 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
9. 1 teaspoon sesame oil
10. 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
11. ¼ cup beef broth or water (to deglaze the pan)
12. 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
13. Salt and pepper, to taste
14. Sesame seeds (for garnish)
15. Chopped green onions (for garnish)

For Serving (Optional):

1. Cooked rice (jasmine or brown rice)
2. Noodles (like lo mein or rice noodles)

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Substitutions and Variations

If you don't have certain ingredients on hand, or you want to tweak the recipe to fit dietary restrictions, here are some substitutions and variations:

• Ground Beef Substitutes: If you're looking for a leaner or plant-based alternative, you can swap the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Tofu crumbles also work well.
• Broccoli Variations: Feel free to use other vegetables such as green beans, snow peas, bell peppers, or cauliflower in place of or alongside the broccoli.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap out the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make the dish gluten-free. Also, ensure your oyster sauce and hoisin sauce are gluten-free (or omit them).
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the dish with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice or noodles to make the recipe keto-friendly.
• Spicy Version: For a spicier kick, add 1-2 teaspoons of chili paste, sriracha, or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients and explored variations, it’s time to start cooking. Follow this step-by-step guide for a foolproof Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry.

1. Prepare the Broccoli:
   Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. You can either blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to ice water to stop the cooking, or steam it lightly until just tender. Set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then add the ground beef, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Push the cooked beef to one side of the skillet. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and diced onion to the empty side of the pan. Cook the aromatics for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onions become soft and translucent.
4. Combine Beef and Broccoli:
   Add the cooked or blanched broccoli florets into the skillet with the ground beef and stir everything together.
5. Make the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), sesame oil, and beef broth. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and broccoli. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
   If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to make a slurry, then add it to the pan. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Final Seasoning:
   Taste the dish and adjust seasoning as necessary. Add more soy sauce for saltiness, a pinch of sugar for sweetness, or a splash of vinegar for tang. For added spice, toss in some chili flakes or sriracha.
8. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor and presentation. Serve hot with rice or noodles, if desired.

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How to Cook Ground Beef and Broccoli: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Ground Beef and Broccoli is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Here’s a quick summary of the steps:

1. Blanch or steam broccoli to keep its bright green color and fresh texture.
2. Brown the ground beef until fully cooked, ensuring it breaks apart into small pieces.
3. Sauté garlic, ginger, and onions for an aromatic base.
4. Stir-fry the beef and broccoli together, incorporating the sauce to coat every piece.
5. Garnish and serve with rice, noodles, or a low-carb substitute like cauliflower rice.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Broccoli:
   To keep the broccoli crunchy and bright, avoid overcooking. Lightly steam or blanch it, then finish it off in the stir-fry for the best texture.
2. Not Draining Excess Fat:
   If you’re using fatty ground beef, remember to drain the excess grease. Too much fat will result in a greasy dish and may dilute the flavors of your sauce.
3. Burning the Garlic and Ginger:
   Garlic and ginger can quickly burn if the pan is too hot. Keep an eye on them and sauté only for 1-2 minutes to avoid bitterness.
4. Skipping the Cornstarch Slurry:
   If you like your sauce thicker, don’t forget to add the cornstarch slurry. It helps bind the sauce to the beef and broccoli, making the dish more cohesive.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli:
This dish is best served hot, immediately after cooking. Pair it with fluffy jasmine or brown rice, or with stir-fried noodles. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. If you’re serving guests, portion the stir-fry into individual bowls for a restaurant-style presentation.

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Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Broccoli

To elevate the appearance of this dish, try the following presentation tips:

• Garnish generously with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions.
• Serve the dish in a large, shallow bowl for an elegant look.
• Add a pop of color with a side of sliced bell peppers or shredded carrots for contrast.
• Drizzle a bit of extra sesame oil on top for a glossy finish.

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Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe Tips

1. Make it Ahead:
   You can prep this recipe ahead by blanching the broccoli and browning the ground beef a day before. Store them separately in airtight containers, then combine them with the sauce when ready to serve.
2. Double the Recipe:
   This recipe is easily doubled if you need to feed a crowd or want leftovers for meal prepping.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients:
   Fresh garlic, ginger, and broccoli make a noticeable difference in the flavor and texture of the dish. Avoid pre-minced garlic and ginger, if possible.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze Ground Beef and Broccoli?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked beef and broccoli mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a bit of water or broth to refresh the sauce.

2. How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Store in an airtight container and reheat in a skillet or microwave.

3. What can I serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli?
This dish pairs well with rice, noodles, or even a side of stir-fried vegetables. For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice or a simple salad.

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Conclusion

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick, versatile, and healthy dish that will easily become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s packed with flavor, can be customized to fit your preferences, and is simple enough for even beginner cooks. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Be sure to try out the variations, get creative with the presentation, and enjoy every bite!

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