This dish mixes tasty ground beef with bright green broccoli in a delicious sauce. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option!
I love how the beef and broccoli come together so easily. Plus, it’s a nice way to sneak in some veggies without anyone complaining. Who can say no to this combo? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for this dish, but you could swap it with ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu if you’re looking for a lighter option or vegetarian twist!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are best for a nutritious crunch, but you can use frozen broccoli for convenience. Just cook it a bit longer to ensure it’s tender.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds saltiness and depth. For a low-sodium diet, opt for low-sodium soy sauce, or try tamari for a gluten-free choice.
Oyster Sauce: This adds a unique flavor but isn’t essential. If you don’t have it, try hoisin sauce or a splash of extra soy sauce or simply skip it altogether.
Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way with sesame oil, providing a nutty flavor. For a milder taste, you can use olive oil or omit it if you prefer.
How Do You Perfectly Stir-Fry Broccoli?
Stir-frying broccoli requires the right techniques to keep it crisp and vibrant. To do this effectively, follow these steps:
- Use high heat and a large skillet or wok to ensure even cooking.
- Start with the ground beef first, then add garlic and ginger for flavor.
- When it’s time for the broccoli, toss and stir-fry for just a few minutes—this keeps it bright green and slightly crunchy.
- If using frozen broccoli, add it earlier to give it more time, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Remember, the goal is to keep the broccoli colorful and tender-crisp for the best texture in your dish!
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll need roughly 10 minutes for prep (chopping and measuring). The cooking itself will take about 20 minutes. After that, you can enjoy your delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned, using a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Don’t forget to season it with a little salt and pepper for flavor!
2. Adding Aromatics:
After the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Cooking the Broccoli:
Now, toss in the broccoli florets. Stir-fry this mixture for 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and just tender. You want it to stay a bit crunchy for great texture!
4. Mixing the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), cornstarch, and beef broth or water. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring well to mix it with the beef and broccoli.
5. Thickening the Sauce:
Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli nicely.
6. Finishing Touches:
Drizzle the sesame oil over the dish and give it a good stir to combine everything. Taste it and add more salt and pepper if you think it needs it.
7. Serving:
Serve this tasty beef and broccoli mixture over the cooked white rice. Garnish your plates with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a lovely touch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Another Type of Meat Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times as needed—turkey and chicken might take a bit longer to cook through compared to beef.
What If I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?
No problem! You can skip the oyster sauce or replace it with a bit more soy sauce for extra flavor. Alternatively, a mix of soy sauce and a touch of sugar can simulate a similar sweetness and umami.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help restore moisture while reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! To add some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, sliced fresh chili, or a dash of sriracha to the beef as it cooks. Start with a little and adjust according to your spice preference!
